New Tenants Look to Buildouts

Both firms are footing the bills for these buildouts and Aragon Construction is the general contractors for both efforts. "Our project team worked under an aggressive schedule to have the new facility for Learning Tree completed by early July," says Aragon account executive Joseph Lopardo. The firm worked with owner's representative Eric Morales, president of Arcos Group Engineering and Construction Services Inc., and Gensler Architects of Virginia.

The new facilities have classrooms/training rooms that fit up to 32 students, new ADA bathrooms, a reception area, and a LAN Room. Each classroom is outfitted with motion lighting, manual projection screens and extensive voice and data, while full mechanical, electrical, plumbing and sprinkler systems was installed throughout. An open student lounge and smaller break rooms provide Internet access carrels, phone carrels and lounge seating. "We were asked to design and construct a fresh, innovative and dynamic space inspired by Learning Tree's company logo--namely we were given the task of recreating the 'tree of learning' in the engineering and architecture of the space," says Morales. Using geometries akin to the curves of a tree branch yet distinctly modern, the space develops as a unified three-dimensional experience of learning tree's brand and service.

For its Manhattan base of operations, Red Bull will soon occupy 12,600 sf at 40 Thompson St., a six-story SoHo building managed and owned by Vornado Realty Trust. The firm is expected to move into the space in October. Some highlights include plans for an entrance foyer with 30-ft high ceilings, and four over-size metal and plate glass decorative doors that lead to the exterior balcony.

"We will create a showroom and work environment that complements conscious and kinetic brand," says Aragon EVP Richard Hartz. "Red Bull--the product and the marketing--is about virility, energy and innovation, and the space will reflect that."