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In addition to the monitor windows , a computer-controlled system of ring-shaped LED lights hang from the roof in the center of Building # 50 . HULA ’ s Community Associate and Onboarding Specialist , SinGer , explains that the lights are programmed to change colors in a variety of preset patterns , each of which is custom-designed to accommodate different moods and events . “ At 4:30PM on Thursday , Friday , and Saturday , we change the lights to the ‘ Fast Rainbow ’ setting ,” says SinGer . “ It signals to everyone at HULA that the bar is open and that it ’ s time to come down and socialize . The lights fluctuate in a pattern that moves through the entire color spectrum .” The LED rings can also be preset to a variety of other color schemes , including “ Holiday ” and “ Americana .” Throughout the building , a system of additional motion-activated lights allow HULA to illuminate the halls and offices in an energy-efficient manner . The modern lighting fixtures are set on a computerized timer , which turns them off after a short period to preserve electricity . In line with their unwavering commitment to environmentally-sustainable business practices , HULA makes use of state-of-the-art geothermal heat pump technology to minimize their heating and cooling costs . The HULA campus was also able to achieve “ net zero ” carbon-neutral status , thanks in part to an array of on-site rooftop solar panels that were installed by SunCommon , a Vermont-based solar energy firm .
Food and Fitness
Those who wish to power up for a productive workday with an invigorating workout or a tasty snack need look no further than HULA ’ s fantastic on-site restaurant and gym . Located at the southeastern end of Building # 50 , The Spot at HULA is available for rental as an event space , and has a welcoming surfside ambience that perfectly complements the design of HULA ’ s buildings . Their delightful fish tacos and gourmet fare are available from 9AM-3PM , Monday-Friday . The Spot at HULA is accessible both from an interior and exterior entrance , and visiting diners are welcome to come grab a bite to eat without entering through Building # 50 ’ s main reception area .
Adjacent to the interior entrance to The Spot At HULA , Fortify Fitness offers both HULA members and local residents the opportunity to progress toward their athletic goals in an encouraging and energizing setting . In addition to an assortment of free weights , aerobic machines and weight machines , the gym also hosts yoga and Nia aerobic dance classes , some of which are taught by Roxanne Scully . During the warmer months , Roxanne hosts meditation classes on the outdoor patio , as well . In an effort to improve the health and wellness of the HULA community , members are offered a discount on gym memberships at Fortify Fitness . They are also granted 24-hour access to the gym through the Kisi Cloud Based Control & Security application , which is integrated into HULA ’ s office doorways , as well . The software allows for controlled and safe keyless access to all of HULA ’ s rooms , creating a streamlined and seamless experience for members as they walk through the building .
For members interested in embarking on a carbon-neutral expedition to the city center , Burlington ’ s main bike path directly crosses through the HULA grounds to the east of Building # 50 . The bike path leads from South Burlington all the way through Downtown Burlington towards its north end . It also played a critical part in HULA ’ s genesis . As an avid cyclist , Russ Scully biked past the Blodgett Oven factory for several years before he bought the property . “ I was always fascinated by the building every time I rode by it ,” says Scully . “ Seeing the Blodgett Oven factory repeatedly on those bike trips really planted a seed in my mind .”
Collision Course
HULA was founded on an underlying philosophy of conscious and sustainable business practices , ethical transparency , openness to change , and human connection . According to Russ Scully , the design of the glass-walled office spaces throughout the facility perfectly exemplify HULA ’ s defining values . “ We wanted to build ‘ collision spaces ’ here at HULA where people would see each other and spark spontaneous conversations . In order to catalyze those moments , we opted for offices with glass exteriors . When people walk down our halls , people working in the offices see them as they pass by , and vice versa .” This deliberate design choice helps to break down barriers and create opportunities for entrepreneurs to introduce themselves to one another and build lasting relationships . “ There ’ s an unmistakable air of positivity and creativity in Building # 50 ,” says Scully . “ The long sight lines in the hall and the glass office walls create a mood-elevating experience from the moment you walk in . There ’ s a lot of activity here , and there ’ s also a lot of potential for collaboration and growth .”
Rob Lair concurs with Scully ’ s assertion , and adds that the architecture is an emblematic expression of HULA ’ s core mission . “ We want to help founders grow connectivity to other founders ,” says Lair . “ HULA and The Fund at HULA were created to build a community of founders that can spend time together , exchange stories , and lean on each other . The community truly comes together here , and the design of the buildings plays an important part in helping to make that happen .” hula . com
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