The Department of Justice Facility Project stands as a testament to the seamless integration of cutting-edge construction techniques and innovative flooring solutions in urban development. Located in the heart of Kalamazoo, MI, this ambitious project aimed to redefine the skyline while prioritizing sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
The construction process incorporated state-of-the-art materials and methodologies, with a particular emphasis on the flooring design. Engineers and architects collaborated to select eco-friendly and durable flooring options that not only met the project’s acoustic and maintenance goals but also added a touch of sophistication to the interiors.
One of the project’s key highlights was the implementation of almost 10’ high thin gauge porcelain panels set behind the Judges that used Bostik’s amazing Bosti-Set adhesive.
The Tarkett Powerbond carpet, the J&J carpet tile, and the Bentley carpet tile all included padded backing to help with foot fatigue and acoustic ratings.
The main corridors and common areas feature Tarkett’s famous Powerbond while the courtrooms feature J+J’s classic Fractured Plaid carpet tile. These designs will not only last as far as durability but also in terms of aesthetics as well.
Nancy Thiel, founder and principal of Thiel Architecture + Design, is a licensed architect and an interior designer. With 40+ years’ experience working with luminaries in the architecture world, including Michael Graves, Robert A.M. Stern, and Rockwell Group, where she served as a studio leader, Thiel’s extensive portfolio includes single-family homes and multi-story residences, hotels, restaurants, retail, fitness clubs, offices, theaters, schools and shopping centers. She is a member of the AIA, holds NCARB certification and is a LEED accredited professional. Prior to her career in architecture, Thiel was a dancer and choreographer.
Thiel Architecture + Design is an award-winning multi-disciplinary architecture, interior design, planning, and product design firm with offices in CT and NY. The firm’s work focuses on high-end residential design as well as hospitality, contract, and retail projects. Thiel Architecture + Design’s work has been featured in Interior Design, Architype, New York and Connecticut Cottages and Gardens, Connecticut Magazine, Archello, and Fast Company magazines. In 2022, the firm received a Connecticut AIA Excellence award for Interior Architecture. Thiel earned a BA from Penn State University and her Master of Architecture degree from Syracuse University.
