AO was selected by Western Union to fast track a new regional office in the First National Business Park. Due to the tight constraints in the construction schedule, two different sets of drawings were issued; the permit set was submitted to the City of Omaha, while the design was further refined and a bidding set was completed. Preliminary design began in early May, construction in early July, and substantial completion was reached at the beginning of November, with the owner moving in December 1st. Despite the aggressive schedule, continued collaboration and approval was maintained with Western Union’s national and regional offices throughout.

Completed under budget, the plan places emphasis on the creation of open, collaborative spaces and the use of natural light. Private offices and support spaces are pulled into the core and extensive glass partitions allow the natural light to filter all the way into occupied areas. The open plan emphasized collaborative spaces and work areas, while providing breakout spaces of multiple sizes to allow for private and semi-private conversations. AO also selected the benching systems and ancillary furniture, based upon Western Union general guidelines. Multiple systems were priced and mock-ups were utilized to help gain the Owner’s final approval of interior furnishings.