Fresh, thoughtful design on display at River Prairie open house

On Tuesday, May 25, 2021, River Prairie Wealth Partners (RPWP) cut the ribbon and welcomed the community to an open house showcasing the financial services firm’s newly constructed headquarters in Altoona, Wisconsin. Shelter Architecture designed the office building, inside and out. We’re thrilled with the result.

Our architects and interior designers worked closely with RPWP leaders to create a beautiful facility that serves practical business needs while providing a pleasant environment for clients. A stodgy, mahogany-hued ambiance would have been decidedly off-brand for this growing, relatively young team of financial professionals. Instead, the space features many contemporary flourishes, and it’s filled with natural light, thanks in part to a raised roof section lined with windows that allow sunshine to pour into the building’s central areas.

RPWP managing partner Kate Noe says Shelter nailed the vibe the firm was looking for. “It’s modern, yet not uber-modern,” she says. “There’s nothing ostentatious about it. But it’s impressive.”

 

Some of Shelter’s interior design choices — including furniture selections and arrangements — were specifically influenced by RPWP’s need to provide privacy during sensitive financial discussions. “They want their clients to feel comfortable,” says interior designer Lisa Antenucci. “They want to put people at ease.”

Other interior elements purposely promote an open feel, something firm leaders know their staff will appreciate. “We didn’t want a cubicle farm,” says Noe. “When we looked at different architects, it seemed like many of them focused on either form or function. Shelter was really able to marry the two. Every design element they recommended was thoroughly vetted for how it would function in the real world.”

       

 

RPWP’s HQ is the latest of several Shelter projects to recently appear in and around Eau Claire. We’re proud to play a continuing role in this community’s ongoing arts and business renaissance. We’ve done award-winning work for The Oxbow Hotel and The Lakely restaurant, Skill Shot Coffee & Pinball Bar, and the Visit Eau Claire Experience Center. Currently, we’re helping Token Jewelry create its first brick-and-mortar retail space in the historic West Grand Avenue District.

Among Shelter’s guiding principles is our commitment to sustainable design. For the RPWP project, that focus is seen in our use of efficient HVAC systems, best-in-class insulation, and thermally modified wood — an alternative to lumber treated with chemical preservatives.

To discuss how Shelter can help your business create a distinctive new home, contact us at info@shelterarchitecture.com or 715-880-7100.