Design Army Headquarters in Washington, DC by Studio Twenty Seven Architecture

Article source: Studio Twenty Seven Architecture

In 2006, Design Army, an accolade laden Washington DC graphic design firm looked for a new space to locate its growing business. After a concentrated search, Design Army was able to purchase an abandoned and dilapidated building in the City’s NOMA (North of Massachusetts Avenue) District. Destroyed in the riots of 1968, the NOMA District had laid dormant for over 30 years before being identified as a focus redevelopment zone in the City’s master plan.

Front Elevation

• Architects: Studio Twenty Seven Architecture
• Project: Design Army Headquarters
• Location: Washington, DC
• Software used: AutoCAD Architecture and the Adobe Suite of programs

Facade

Programmatically, Design Army needed to gut and expand the structure from a two to a three and a half story building. The eight person firm needed two and half floors of studio space as well as a street‐front retail space they could lease to supplement the operating costs of the new building. The architects were aware that the new zoning overlay about to be adopted for the neighborhood would make this impossible by restricting the building to three floors. The architects were able to work with the planning commission and zoning board to obtain a variance to allow a mezzanine roof deck and kitchen area for Design Army to use and make sure the emerging neighborhood did not lose this new development. Design Army represented a vibrant new source of activity and anchor redevelopment property for the block.

3rd Floor Design Studio

In 2008, Design Army took possession of a luminous work and meeting space that reinforces their clients’ belief that they have hired a graphic design firm that provides “designs that resonate with intelligence, relevance and professionalism.”

Mezzanine and Rooftop Patio

Reception Area

Reception Area and Conference Room

Skylight Detail

Stair Detail

Staircase

Staircase

Tags: DC, Washington

Categories: Architectural Desktop, Building, Photoshop

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