The design for the J.B. Hunt Training and Technology Center provides employees and visitors a 21st Century work environment, transforming underutilized spaces outside the building into hubs of activity that provide staff and visitors comfortable places to work, dine and exercise outside. J.B. Hunt selected OLIN, in collaboration with Miller Boskus Lack Architects to transform this new part of the campus into a destination for outdoor activity. OLIN worked to understand the values of J.B. Hunt employees and ensure their ideas were represented in the design. OLIN’s plan for the space, divided into multiple outdoor rooms, responds to the rigid geometry of the building, while at the same time providing a variety of unique outdoor space for all to enjoy. The design utilizes allees of trees to create a senseless of enclosure and much needed shade.
© OLIN
The site design provides a subtle transition between parking space and work place by creating frames of planting and thresholds into the building. Seating made up of Arkansas Limestone in stone fines areas under bosques of shade trees create comfortable places for people and a landscape ecology reminiscent of the native Ozark Plateau of Northwest Arkansas. The design also provides employees and visitors with different opportunities to engage and gather. Stepped seating areas allow for large events in the Central Lawn while more intimate spaces encourage thoughtful work places outdoors. A play court provides opportunities for exercise which improves health and wellness. The site design incorporates outdoor WiFi and strategically placed power sources for convenient outdoor work opportunities.
Will is the Lead Designer and Project Manager for J.B. Hunt at OLIN.