Photo Courtesy of Fred Golden

The renovation and expansion had to harmonize with existing architecture.

The renovations and additions to the Delta Dental of Michigan headquarters harmonize with not only the existing architecture but also the surrounding environment of Okemos, Mich. To this end, Delta elected to expand an on-site retention basin that supports area drainage as well as a variety of wildlife, an undertaking that required safe removal of the wildlife prior to the pond's being drained and excavated. As a result of cleaner water and landscaping enhancements, including the introduction of rocky basking structures, the wildlife population on the site has since doubled.

Judges laud the participation of community members in removing the wildlife, an activity that was promoted as the "Reptile Roundup."

Project Team

Owner Delta Dental of Michigan, Okemos, Mich.

Architect Albert Kahn Assoc. Inc., Detroit

General Contractor Walbridge, Detroit