Urban Edge Developers purchased this 10,000 sf building, originally constructed in 1956-57, with the goal of improving the marketability of the spaces to small architecture and design firms while keeping expenditures low. DSGN chose to enhance the building’s existing attributes: an unassuming but attractive exterior, a triangular courtyard surrounded by an arcade, and a number of mature live oaks. The arcade was unified by clean colors and new graphics, and a landscaping plan that reestablished the courtyard as a gathering place for tenants.

As part of the overall scope, DSGN Associates was commissioned to design the interiors of the client’s offices within the building. The design solution was based on a series of custom work stations in a palette similar in character to the client’s projects — maple plywood, concrete, white paint, and steel — and incorporating her design awards and extensive art collection. To the greatest extent possible, the interior elements of the building were incorporated, including the Tectum deck, concrete floors, wood sash and exposed brick.