Challenge
The Port team looked ahead to future growth. It became clear that their existing space could no longer support a growing workforce or accommodate guests critical to advancing new partnerships. At the same time, The City of Cincinnati and The Port were working to attract private investment, create jobs, and elevate Uptown as a destination for innovation and research—an alternative to the downtown core. Without room to grow or host collaborators and investors, achieving that vision became an increasingly urgent challenge.
Vision
They envisioned a dynamic, modern office and technology space that was creative, welcoming, and connected to the community. Using inspiration specifically from the Mercantile library, The Port’s CEO, Laura N. Brunner wanted to make sure local artists were present throughout the space. They loved the idea of “Found” or “Unique” that would speak to the artistry of Cincinnati and structured to support the growth of employees and partners.
Collaboration
The project was shaped through a close collaboration between LOTH, Inc. and GBBN Architects. Early in the process, The Port team joined collaborative brainstorming sessions at LOTH’s Cincinnati Work Studio. GBBN led the architectural development in direct coordination with the client, bringing concepts forward for refinement. Through a series of live design sessions, the project team evolved these ideas into tailored drawings. Thus, fully aligning with The Port’s vision and expectations.
Result
The team was selected over four competing firms for its ability to fully understand the Port’s needs and address the challenges at hand. Afterwards, the space exceeded expectations and successfully delivered on the Port’s relocation goals. During the Open House, CEO Laura Brunner praised the collaboration, calling LOTH, Inc. and GBBN a “dream team” that “hit the ball out of the park.” She added, “Partnering with LOTH, Inc. and GBBN allowed us to bring that vision to life in a space that supports our team and the communities we serve.”
“Partnering with LOTH, Inc. and GBBN allowed us to bring that vision to life in a space that supports our team and the communities we serve.”
President and CEO of The Port, Laura Brummer
Connecting community, partnerships and workforce.
As the Port team looked ahead to future growth, it became clear that their existing space could no longer support a growing workforce or accommodate guests critical to advancing new partnerships. At the same time, The City of Cincinnati and The Port were working to attract private investment, create jobs, and elevate Uptown as a destination for innovation and research—an alternative to the downtown core. Without room to grow or host collaborators and investors, achieving that vision became an increasingly urgent challenge.