Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island

Overview

SMMA recently completed the architecture, interior design, and MEP engineering for BCBS RI’s new 327,000-square-foot, 13-story headquarters. The LEED-NC Gold-certified building is situated in the heart of Providence’s Capital Center Improvement District, and incorporates several elements to sculpt and layer its appearance. The curved form of the glass curtainwall animates the building with variable light and sky reflection; the edges appear to float freely to enhance the building’s prominence on the Providence skyline. Vegetated rooftops provide additional dimension to the structure while reducing heat island effect and mitigating stormwater runoff.

In order to create a vibrant, transparent, productive, and healthy environment matched to the business mission of the owner, the interior design provides an open office floor plan that embraces abundant natural light and features views through floor-to-ceiling glass curtainwall facades. To complement the open office concept, the design team provided multiple collaboration spaces including the cafeteria which features a dramatic entry way with an LED sculptural interpretation of the City’s Water- Fire event.