L.L. Bean Outsider Building
Freeport, ME
Category: 2023 Corporate, Unique Installation Challenge
Architect: SMRT
Starnet Member:
Paul White Company
Starnet Preferred Vendors:
Altro, American Olean, Daltile, EcoSurfaces, Grasstex, Johnsonite By Tarkett, MAPEI, Mohawk Soft Surfaces, Tarkett Collection Hard Surfaces
Project Strategy
L.L.Bean‘s mission is to connect people to the outdoors. The goal for their corporate offices was to consolidate multiple campuses under one roof in order to improve recruitment and employee satisfaction. The team transformed two windowless warehouse structures built in 1979 and 1986 into an environmentally friendly, show-stopping operations center. One of the biggest challenges was striking the perfect balance of celebrating the past – repairing and polishing existing concrete, exposed ceilings and structural bracing – and integrating new, modern finishes. The energy-efficient building will house up to 1,500 employees with a fitness facility, featuring reclaimed rubber floor by Ecore, Tarkett Omnisport, and V-Max by Grasstex, conference center, 10,000 sq. ft. courtyard, health clinic, world class cafeteria and kitchen as well as grab-n-go snack bars and multiple types of breakout spaces.
The company’s new headquarters features natural materials such as wood and stone while incorporating plaid patterns and the iconic Bean Boot triple-stitch detail throughout, using Daltile and American Olean tiles and Mohawk carpets, paying homage to the products that define the company’s legacy. Mohawk Lichen carpeting was installed throughout the building – this carpet is the first floor covering to achieve Living Product Challenge Petal Certification. A portion of products from Lichen are donated to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
Unique Installation Challenge Strategy
Preparing 150,000 SF of existing warehouse space for new flooring while simultaneously adjoining two existing structures.
