Jackson National Life Insurance Offices – Franklin
Gresham Smith have designed a professional and sustainable regional headquarters for Jackson National Life Insurance located in Franklin, Tennessee.
Originally established in 1961, Jackson National Life Insurance is now one of America’s largest insurance companies. When they decided to expand nationally with a new regional headquarters, they had a detailed vision of a sleek, modern, and friendly corporate environment for an energetic young workforce. At the same time, the Michigan-based company wanted to provide a formal but warm and approachable space for their executive team. Based on current and forecasted growth, Jackson National chose a brand-new, five-floor, 150,000-square-foot LEED Gold building for their regional headquarters in Franklin, Tenn., just south of Nashville. The speculative office building offered the opportunity to create a customized space that would attract and retain the industry’s best talent, present a unique and exciting first impression, and provide first- class amenities for employees and visitors alike.
GS&P’s modern design includes an aluminum-layered grid-work along with a glass feature wall and ceiling in the main lobby, providing a dynamic focal point upon entry. Colorful graphic accents and a large collection of original art pieces are displayed throughout the facility, and all floors are designed to maximize views and natural light. In contrast to the white graphic elements used in the lobby, the graphic elements in other areas are more playful and less formal. Screen wall colors alternate from floor-to-floor to help employees and visitors with wayfinding throughout the building. A 12,000-square-foot dining facility provides a fun, informal atmosphere that complements the healthy, progressive menu options available to employees. Other facility components include training rooms, a fitness center and a data center.
“The level of sophistication comes out in the details,” explained Jack E. Weber, IIDA, MCR, LEED AP, principal-in-charge at Gresham, Smith and Partners. “They are almost always a gesture, a touch or flourish of excellence and beauty, not something that screams at you. Success comes in the selection of the very best materials, and the most elegant small features and details.”
The Jackson National Life Insurance building debuted in April 2011, bringing with it almost 300 jobs and much fanfare in the community. The design created a smart work environment that emphasizes Jackson National’s goals of creating a flexible, modern work environment that reflects their image and culture.
Design: Gresham Smith
