The new Hornsby Tire + Service Center encompasses a one-block area, with nearly 8,000 SF involving a 6-bay drive-through repair facility, an employee lounge, and a separate employee locker room with a shower. The remainder of the building is dedicated to retail and office space, as well as a comfortable and brightly-colored customer lounge where patrons can wait while their car is being serviced. A mezzanine area, accessible only by employees, offers two executive offices with a shared restroom and shower, as well as training and storage areas.

The work areas are partially enclosed by an ornamental security fence. The exterior of the building is clad with integral colored CMU, architectural metal panels and glass. As security was an important issue for the client, the building design incorporates security features such as exterior lighting, a video surveillance security system, and motorized perimeter fencing. In addition, the CMU was extended to 4’ AFF with laminated safety glass above to deter break-ins. The goal of the project was to construct an affordable building which was aesthetically welcoming to customers and the community as a whole; the design will serve as the ‘guiding star’ for future development in the area.

The project was reviewed for sustainability by RRMM Architects PC’s LEED designers and the completed project includes numerous sustainable features, such as: a highly reflective white TPO membrane roof; use of regional materials; use of high recycled content materials; redevelopment of an existing site; use of occupancy sensors; extensive daylighting; incorporation of a recycled fluids room; and the use of low flow plumbing fixtures.

Award – 2010 Recipient of a Hampton Roads Association for Commercial Real Estate Excellence in Development Design Award, Award of Merit for design and construction.