The design team was challenged by a creative branding agency to transform a neglected Fells Point rowhome into a progressive and collaborative office space within an extremely limited budget. The move was prompted by the business’ goal for a sustainable office in a location that would allow most of the staff to bike or walk to work.
Poor maintenance and years of multiple tenants left the interiors dark and disconnected and the building systems outdated and inefficient. Finding the charm beneath the neglect and recognizing the inherent sustainability in breathing new life into an existing building, the design opens the space with a two-story opening – allowing for open communication between the offices upstairs and the studio downstairs.
The clean and contemporary design contrasts against the exposed character of the original building and new systems. An ornamental tin ceiling is salvaged and revealed and the corrugated metal storefront and glass door is left intact. The company’s brand is thoughtfully integrated with pops of orange seating and a bold orange floor in the kitchen. For the small creative team, the space provides the room and flexibility they need to be productive independently as well as collaboratively. In addition to the focus on natural light, selection of responsible materials and systems result in an efficient building with greatly improved indoor environmental quality.
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