LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Clever Container for New Office Building


Study of Bow Tie Office Building Graphic provided

Drivers cruising through the west end of Lafayette may have wondered what's with all the heavy equipment on what may arguably be the skinniest parcel in Lafayette near the Veteran's Hall. It will be the future home of The Fresh Connection, headquartered in Lafayette, an exporter of fresh fruits and vegetables to over 25 countries throughout Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Architect Scott Thomsen of Ward Young Architecture and Planning calls designing on the very constrained lot an "interesting challenge." The unique, contemporary structure will be made from re-used shipping containers - a clever nod to the developer's business and an environmentally friendly construction solution.

"The Fresh Connection has been a part of the Lafayette community for the past seven years. We are excited about our new home on Mt. Diablo Boulevard and proud of our green building," said Fresh Connection CEO Hank Miller. "We feel it compliments one of the city's goals of creating a healthy and environmentally conscious neighborhood for its residents."

The narrow parcel, also called the "bow tie lot" referencing its shape, was created years ago when the East Bay Municipal Utility District installed a large water pipeline that runs parallel to Mt. Diablo Boulevard and is set back from the roadway. The developer will also be responsible for street and sidewalk improvements. C. Tyson