The new Headquarters and Disaster Operations Center was conceived as a quality facility that supports and advances one of the top performing chapters in the nation by conveying a compatible, yet distinctive, contemporary identity that raises community awareness. On I-71, over 130,000 vehicles daily encounter the prominent logo of the American Red Cross and a building that speaks to its mission. The three story stone wall, with its lively pattern of windows and masonry, evokes the strength and dynamism of relief operations in the midst of chaos. The glazed-top tower suggests a beacon and focus above the fray. The transparent lobby emerging from the hillside is inspired by one of the most profound gifts of the Red Cross to the individuals it serves – a vision of hope and ultimately, renewal. Aiding the pursuit of LEED Gold Certification, sustainable technologies, such as an enhanced thermal envelope, bio-retention cells and a vegetated roof, reflect the stewardship that the Red Cross possesses.

The American Red Cross was expanding to provide disaster relief for a larger geographic region and needed a state of the art facility to support this growth. Their new Cincinnati Headquarters, includes offices, conference/training rooms and support areas for day-to-day operations. Other featured spaces include an operations center with movable walls that allow it to expand into the training rooms. Additional disaster support areas includes volunteer call centers and an area to store and load emergency supplies under cover. The main lobby of the building is designed for public functions with area rugs on a patterned stained concrete floor for ease of maintenance. Historical memorabilia displays are incorporated in the lobby and corridors. Furniture was selected for modularity, reconfiguration, to minimize inventory and to support technology. The American Red Cross offices are a physical embodiment of their commitment to the community and environment.