The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) required additional executive office space, which was fulfilled by finishing out the 5th and 6th floors of the Rio Bank Building in McAllen, TX. WestEast was tasked with designing the layout, selecting interior finishes, creating space plans, and providing a comprehensive Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) package. The project covered 21,000 square feet and included private offices, cubicles, executive suites, a reception area, a conference room, and a multipurpose space for events.

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WestEast focused on addressing the lack of continuity and natural light by proposing modular, continuous office spaces that encouraged interaction and flexibility. The design team listened to the specific needs of each office occupant, ensuring that private offices could also double as meeting spaces. The color palette featured UTRGV’s signature orange and green, complemented by wood millwork, while furniture selections provided multifunctional and flexible solutions to accommodate different meeting styles. By reorienting desks, WestEast also increased natural light access from 20% to 95%, improving both comfort and functionality.

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The final design achieved a natural and efficient workflow, with a pleasant and cohesive aesthetic. Despite challenges, including a change order for space planning and budget constraints, WestEast delivered a high-end, functional space that has been enjoyed by UTRGV’s executive staff since 2022. The project was a success due to the collaborative efforts between WestEast, stakeholders, contractors, and the existing architect group, ensuring the space met the needs of its users while maintaining a flexible, modern design.

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