Project: Migdal HaRakevet (Train Station Tower)

Location: Jerusalem, Israel

Architect: Pei Cobb Freed & Partners

Type: Office Tower, Mixed Used

Client: Cammeby’s International Group

Size: 650,000 SF

Year: 2017 - Design Development

Program: Office, Retail, Parking, Public Space

As a Designer at Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, Christopher Reynolds was instrumental in the design and execution of Migdal HaRakevet through Design Development, a prominent mixed-use tower at a major urban transit hub. His responsibilities encompassed a range of technical and leadership tasks essential to the project's success.

Key Contributions:

1. Curtain Wall & Storefront Design/Documentation: Christopher led the design and documentation of the tower’s curtain wall and storefront systems, focusing on creating a sleek, high-performance façade that addressed both aesthetic and environmental challenges. His attention to detail ensured that the systems provided optimal energy efficiency, daylighting, and thermal comfort while enhancing the tower’s modern identity.

2. Complex Parametric Documentation & Analysis: Leveraging advanced parametric modeling, Christopher conducted detailed performance analysis to optimize the tower’s design. This included the structural behavior of the façade, solar shading strategies, and complex geometries, ensuring that the design met both performance and aesthetic goals.

3. Site Design & Coordination: Christopher directed the development of the site plan, ensuring seamless integration with the surrounding urban fabric. This included designing pedestrian flows, optimizing the connection between the tower and the adjacent municipal parking structure and train station, and ensuring accessibility and safety were prioritized.

4. International Consultant Coordination & Management: Given the global nature of the project team, Christopher managed a diverse group of international consultants. He coordinated efforts across multiple disciplines, ensuring that design, structural, MEP, and environmental consultants worked in sync to achieve a cohesive and functional design solution.

5. Project Management & Scheduling: As a key project leader, Christopher played a crucial role in setting the project schedule and overseeing its execution. He maintained a clear timeline, facilitating communication among stakeholders, and ensuring the project stayed on track.

6. Municipal Parking & Train Station Connection Design: Christopher spearheaded the integration of the tower with the adjacent municipal parking and train station, addressing complex logistical and architectural challenges. His design ensured fluid connectivity for pedestrians and commuters, enhancing the overall user experience while addressing urban planning constraints.

7. Material Research & Analysis: Extensive material research was conducted under Christopher’s leadership to identify materials that met stringent sustainability and durability standards. His analysis focused on sourcing innovative materials that enhanced the tower’s environmental performance and long-term resilience.

8. Public Submission Packages & Presentations: Christopher led the preparation of public submission packages, producing comprehensive documentation for municipal approvals.

9. Building Information Model (BIM) Lead: Serving as the BIM Lead, Christopher ensured the accuracy and coordination of all project data within the Building Information Model. He maintained control over the model’s development, facilitating collaboration among the design team, consultants, and contractors, and ensuring all aspects of the project were accurately reflected in the digital environment.