BCCI completed a renovation and seismic upgrade of the granite and glass cube at the corner of Montgomery and California Street – an iconic structure that was once Bank of America’s flagship retail location next door to its World Headquarters. The property, now owned by Vornado Realty Trust, has been transformed into a dramatic commercial office building with a five-story, 50’x50’ atrium; a stadium-style staircase from the basement to the first floor; cantilevered stairs; two new elevators; and all new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire sprinkler systems.
A large opening in the center of the first floor was cut to extend the atrium down into one of two basement levels which was previously used for vaults, safety deposit boxes, and office space. The third floor was demolished and completely rebuilt along with the addition of a new floating 4th floor. The process was a bit like building a “ship in a bottle.” Additionally, a 5,525 square-foot historical coffered ceiling at a 70-foot elevation was refurbished with a specialized, digital, architectural lighting control system. On the exterior, the storefront and paving was replaced. The renovation has completely modernized the property in preparation for leasing.
Project Highlights:
- Abatement in the attic, basement and hard structural demoltion areas
- New five-story, 50’x50’ atrium
- New floating 4th floor, adding 6,500 sf
- Grand, stadium-style staircase and new cantilevered staircases
- Two new passenger elevators
- All new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire sprinkler systems
