An Idaho construction project progress report

Jennifer Gonzalez//April 23, 2013//

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Built in 1959, this warehouse is being renovated and will serve as the headquarters for CSHQA, a design and architectural firm in Boise.

Renovations of a former rail line warehouse in downtown Boise are well under way.

Architecture and design firm CSHQA is transforming the space across from the Ada County Courthouse on Front Street into its new headquarters. Plans include the addition of a new reflective roof, 14 skylights, an in-floor radiant heating and cooling system, and tapping into Boise’s geothermal system. The goal is to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum certification for the building, with water-efficient landscaping, interior day lighting, and incentives for people who drive fuel-efficient vehicles or ride their bike to work. Showers will also be constructed inside the warehouse.

Currently, the removal of degraded paint is ongoing as are improvements to the warehouse’s exterior.

“Our goal is to leave as much of the shell structure as possible and draw a contrast with the existing building,” CSHQA Architect Ted Isbell said.

More than 70 employees will relocate into the 20,000-square-foot building when it’s fully renovated in June. Jordan-Wilcomb is the general contractor, and the project is valued at $2 million.