Authenticity is important in any project but even more so in an open-space design where the plan needs to project a unified look and feel. Through the use of design elements, such as color, materials and patterns, a cohesive look can be obtained throughout different areas. Glass walls and partitions, as well as freestanding walls, lend the feeling of open space but provide barriers against noise and other disruptions. They also provide a sense of privacy while offering corporate transparency.
Today’s companies want to attract and keep employees by offering amenities that improve their overall work experience.
Once only a staple of high-tech companies, such as Google, more employers now are offering perks, such as gyms and upscale dining areas, to entice and retain employees. These perks can be incorporated into open-office spaces.
Examples of Open Offices
When contracted by Pricewaterhouse Coopers for interior renovations for its 10,000-squarefoot office suite located in Richmond, Va., L.F. Jennings, Falls Church, Va., highlighted the reception area by framing it with aluminum storefronts and double glass doors that open to ceramic tile floors accented by wood paneling along the walls. The office space embraces color with a variety of accent walls dotting the perimeter of the suite. Designed by ASD Architects, Atlanta, the space focuses on communication and collaboration; it incorporates the use of “wall talkers”—custom-built, reusable writing surfaces along the walls throughout the suite, which allow employees to leave messages and communicate ideas. In addition, millwork is found in many offices, the kitchen and common areas.
Last year, L.F. Jennings was contracted by Washington, D.C.-based AdvantEdge Business Centers, a provider of executive suites, to expand its center in the Chevy Chase Pavilion, a Class-A, mixed-use building located in northwest Washington. The suite was custom designed by Leesburg, Va.-based VA Spaces, which focused on creating a sophisticated business environment with comfortable styling and flexible work areas, as well as amenities that include a 50-person training facility featuring an operable glass partition, an upscale lounge and a café.
In addition, the space incorporated state-of-the-art technology, including recessed flat-panel televisions, multimedia displays, and the latest communication and data services. Other highlights of the suite include various spaces in which to collaborate, network and relax. Workspaces range from co-working desks and other open-area seating to private offices and mini-suites.
In 2013, CST Group, a certified public accounting firm located in Reston, Va., contracted L.F. Jennings for an interior office tenant fit-out. The interior space was designed by OTJ Architects, Washington, and features a wooden slat wall that highlights the entryway and provides a striking first impression. The use of natural wood tones along with color help to define areas and give visual interest to the project.
Many companies are designing for the future of their organizations. Open-area offices easily allow companies to make changes based on their growth, so they can keep office space longer. By marrying architectural theme and style along with spaces designed to foster collaboration and growth, open-space offices offer exceptional work environments for employees.
PHOTO: Dan Cunningham