One of the largest lodging companies in the world, Choice Hotels relocated to a new 144,413 SF headquarters in Rockville, Maryland. With more than 6,200 franchised hotels in more than 30 countries and territories, Choice desired a new space reflective of their many brands that would encourage collaboration among associates, franchisees, and external groups. The new headquarters is the result of a consolidation of staff from multiple buildings into one central location. Through this consolidation, Choice associates and franchisees are comingled, with the building acting as a catalyst for interaction between the company’s two groups. The new headquarters embodies this nexus between associates and franchisees. The design is a nod to the past with a look to the future. A feature wall comprised of a timeline and artifacts from the organization’s 75-year history reminds associates how far the company has come as a leader in the hospitality industry. Logos of their franchised brands are displayed along the walls of the interconnecting stairway that connects the 5th through 9th floors. The open areas and glass walls were specifically created to encourage teaming and information sharing. The transparent office spaces are designed to embrace a culture of trust, where diverse groups can come together to work on common goals. An interconnecting stair located at the center of each floor provides a physical connection and promotes a reconnection of staff to each other and the brands.