Irvine's 10-Story Atrium Tower Finishes Up Renovations
Since the Kelemen Company acquired the Atrium back in August of 2018, its mission has been to set a new standard for quality for Class A office projects in the Greater Airport Area. The project, just a mile from John Wayne Airport in Irvine, was completed in 2019 and is widely regarded as one of the most architecturally distinctive structures in Orange County. Its signature 10-story, glass-enclosed lobby linking two office towers still impresses, but the new owner is making a substantial further investment to respond to significant changes in the preferences of today’s growing businesses.
Renderings Are Subject To Change.
A complete upgrade of the lobby, which is scheduled for completion in early June, represents the final phase of improvements designed to inject new energy into this iconic project. It will get a whole new look and color scheme along with contemporary materials and textures. The focal point of the ambitious lobby remake will be a 900-square-foot, freestanding coffee and juice kiosk operated by Tustin-based Bardot. The exterior shell will be constructed of rift-cut white oak shelving in trapezoidal patterns, while the interior will be a blend of high-end stone, wood, stainless steel, and tile finishes. Surrounding Bardot will be 24-inch planters in matching white oak and several 16-foot high faux olive trees.
According to Torry Lozano, the Director of Construction for Kelemen, “three distinct seating areas, furnished with high-end, lounge-type furniture will invite tenants and their guests to experience the space, whether it’s for coffee, lunch, an impromptu meeting or just a place to relax.” New lighting and a two-color contemporary floor tile scheme throughout the lobby will brighten things, as well.
Atrium’s lobby upgrade comes on the heels of several other major renovations and improvements designed to further enhance the tenant experience. The main exterior entry area has been completely updated to reflect the project’s new design. The removal of the original colonnades allows more natural light and also freed up valuable space for casual seating, a water feature, new hardscape, and lush landscaping. The elevators have also been overhauled.
Photo Courtesy Of Ryan Helix Photography
Other amenities already available include a new conference center and a 5,000-square-foot fitness center. The fully furnished conference center can be configured to allow for a variety of group events and is available to all Atrium tenants. It is outfitted with state-of-the-art audio/visual components and can accommodate up to 58 people. Available to all tenants on a reservation basis, it will potentially allow tenants to reduce occupancy costs by leasing less space.
Photo Courtesy Of CoStar
The fitness facility sets a new standard as an on-site amenity. It is the most fully equipped facility of its kind, offering Atrium tenants a wide variety of cardio equipment, free weights and the latest in weight machines, along with lockers and showers. Yoga and spin classes are also available.
Tibor Kelemen, CEO of the Kelemen Company, has an ongoing passion for physical fitness and wanted to create a place where he and other fitness enthusiasts could engage in today’s latest and best fitness regimens. “I was determined to offer everyone who works at the Atrium an opportunity to pursue their own fitness goals, and I am pleased to see how many people are already taking advantage of this important amenity,” he said.
Bistango, a well-known restaurant that has operated from the Atrium for decades, has signed a new long term lease and its owners have plans for another major remodel, which will be taking shape soon. Checkers, a more casual restaurant on-site, will remain in the project, as well. A new hair salon is also in the works. DancKuts will be opening its third location in the Atrium this spring.
Kelemen Company’s massive improvement plan also includes a new solar power array that was recently completed in partnership with SunGreen Systems. The 2021-panel system, installed on the roof of the parking structure, is expected to create a savings of over $250,000 per year, reducing the project’s environmental footprint and lowering operating costs for tenants at the same time. It is one of the largest projects of its kind in Southern California.
“The Atrium has always been one of the county’s premier office properties, and we acquired it with an eye for taking it to another level in terms of quality, sustainability, and tenant experience,” says Mr. Kelemen. “The response from the community thus far has exceeded my expectations, and I believe the lobby transformation will help us attract and retain tenants who want to create a workspace for their employees that fosters collaboration, creativity, and commitment to excellence.”
