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The first phase of Brookfield Property Partners' major initiative to transform the 3.2M SF Allen Center office complex makes its public debut Monday. The completed Phase 1 renovation includes the transformation of One Allen Center’s lobby with a modern two-story glass facade; a reclad, transparent skybridge that connects One and Two Allen Center; and the signature piece of the multimillion-dollar project, a complete re-envisioning of the exterior landscaping with a one-acre green space named The ACRE.
Designed by OJB Landscape Architecture, The ACRE has transformed a previously passive courtyard shared between One, Two and Three Allen Center into a vibrant space to connect Brookfield's mixed-use vision.
“In designing The ACRE, we wanted to create a space tailored to meet Brookfield’s dedication to placemaking,” OJB Managing Principal Chip Trageser said. “A landscape was designed that not only facilitates environmental sustainability but also serves as a gathering place."
From the original courtyard, 63 trees were saved and replanted in The ACRE, and 171 new trees were added. Mindful of Houston’s harsh summer heat, the landscape design’s 66K SF hardscape utilizes gray pavers that reduce solar energy retention.
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Allen Center's East Skybridge was removed to facilitate the new park. The West Skybridge has been reclad as part of the complex's renovation, offering views of the new activated space below.
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The One Allen Center lobby renovation created additional outdoor common space for tenants and a seamless connection to the streetscape. The lobby's new finishes extend through the buildings' shared common spaces, such as the elevator banks.
Going forward, Brookfield's redevelopment efforts will focus on the DoubleTree Hotel adjacent to the center. Brookfield acquired the hotel in late 2016 and will reposition it as part of its overall placemaking strategy for Allen Center.
Construction for the Allen Center's renovations commenced in June 2016, led by Harvey Builders.
A new look comes with a new name. Earlier this year, Saudi-Aramco-owned energy firm Motiva Enterprises expanded its lease in One Allen Center, acquiring the naming rights in the process, and officially renaming One Allen Center to Motiva Plaza.
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