The Project
Dating from the 17th century, the City of Ponce serves as the governmental seat of the Ponce municipality, as well as a hub for various Government of Puerto Rico entities. The Ponce Servicios project was initiated as a part of the City’s plan to revitalize the downtown area and to create a new government center consolidating all municipal agencies in a single building. Today, the 80,000-square-foot (7432m2) building – constructed in 1981 and known as Juan Bigas Plaza del Mercado – is home to the city’s planning, permits, housing and banking departments. Thorough restoration and a thoughtful selection of furniture, materials and finishes provide a well-designed place for citizens to access municipal services.
THE Challenge
The design team worked together to develop a comprehensive understanding of the client and its goals in support of municipal activities and programs. Programming and planning had to address the needs of 10 municipal agencies, each staffed by workers who perform diverse job functions and types of tasks. Additionally, the client mandated that no more than two primary product lines be specified. Furniture must furnish private offices, individual workstations and group workspaces – and be able to readily adapt as changes in personnel or workflow arise.
“The architect and the client shared the desire for furniture that could adapt and meet new needs, whatever those needs might be,” notes Ana Morales, Director of Sales and Design, Integrated Design Solutions. “The architect, Abel Misla, worked closely with us to define and fulfill the client’s criteria. It was a collaborative process that has produced a very flexible workplace with a fresh, light and modern look.”