Project of the Month: Nappa Electrical Contractors unveils renovated headquarters - design by Vivo Architecture

Billerica, MA Nappa Electrical Contractors provides comprehensive electrical solutions to meet the unique needs of their clients, from commercial and industrial facilities to educational institutions and healthcare centers. Specialized in design/build electrical engineering and construction, they also have capabilities that include speculative electrical construction, tenant improvement renovations, building automation controls, fire alarm system installations, NFPA testing, special projects, and telecom/AV technology. Founded in 1971, Nappa is a family-run business with over 50 years in the AEC industry, which has enabled them to sustain long-term growth and provide the necessary resources to manage projects of any scale.

The project consisted of both interior and exterior renovations of an existing warehouse building and a high-bay addition that includes a loading dock area, a winch lift and training space. The project was divided into two phases. The first phase consisted of approximately 15,000 s/f of renovations to the first floor areas to include private and open offices for staff, various meeting rooms, and a main break room café. The second phase included approximately 10,000 s/f of area on two floors with concentration on the warehouse, fitness center, restrooms and specialty training and seminar rooms. VIVO Architecture worked closely with construction manager, BW Kennedy & Co., who coordinated the complexity of phasing the project while maintaining the facility occupied without disruptions through the construction and phasing implementation.

The existing building’s exterior consisted of an uninsulated split-faced concrete block façade in need of upgrades both for aesthetic as well as functional reasons. Designing the metal insulated panel and rain screen system over the existing uneven surfaces of the split-block face was a particular challenge. In doing so, the building envelope was able to meet the required R-values and energy efficiencies required under the current energy codes. The new exterior envelope also afforded the opportunity to visually incorporate the new addition to the existing building as a unified whole.

The overall culture at Nappa Electrical is a collaborative and learning environment. Their brand understands what their client’s specific needs are for each project and delivers the best possible results. By fostering open communication, innovation, and teamwork, Nappa Electrical has established itself as a trusted partner for clients seeking reliable and efficient electrical solutions. In support of their collaborative culture, we designed two innovative meet-up spaces with large tables, seating and monitors to accommodate team meetings and promote communication and team productivity.  There is also a generously sized café space to allow for large gatherings, and company-wide events and a paved patio to enjoy in good weather.

Nappa works closely with many lighting manufacturers which allowed us to be a bit more creative when selecting fixtures – from overlapping rings and wall-wash lit wood branding wall in reception, to layering light with contemporary pendants accenting seating areas, to curvilinear pendant lighting in the collaboration spaces.  As electrical contractors, it was crucial for the lighting design to be purposeful, aesthetically pleasing and extremely functional. Additionally, Vivo incorporated sleek and modern furniture pieces, carefully selected to reflect Nappa’s corporate identity and collaborative work environment. The result was a sophisticated and functional workspace that effectively supported the company’s operations while showcasing its brand personality.

The project team includes:

• VIVO Architecture - Architect 
• BW Kennedy & Co. - Construction Manager
• Tim’s Fabricators, Inc. - Custom Metal Fabrication
• Nappa Electrical Contractors - Owner
• J & M Professional Painting Corp. - Painting
• Advanced Metal Systems - Exterior Panels
• Metro Walls - Drywall & Framing