Interested in positioning their headquarters in Baltimore City as a hub for creative activity, the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, in partnership with the Baltimore Arts Realty Corporation, assembled a team of creatives to transform an underutilized building into a bold new home for Baltimore innovators. Previously home to the Afro-American Newspapers, the two-story approximately 17,500 SF masonry building was originally constructed in the 1960’s for commercial use. The repurposed building provides offices for the Deutsch Foundation, flexible tenant space suitable for arts-based startup businesses, as well as artist studios and gallery space.
An initial pre-design effort to confirm program and design approach for the required renovations and interior modifications was performed to optimize the tenant configuration and building offerings. With a confirmed approach, our team provided full design services for the building’s core and shell renovation and first-floor tenant space fit-out and art gallery.
An angled intervention in the new storefront enhances access and visibility to the entry and gallery space and a new dramatic vertical lobby space with feature stair and elevator connects the two levels. Improvements to the building envelope including exterior wall and roof insulation and high-performance window upgrades to enhance the building’s thermal performance and to support the project’s compliance with the International Green Construction Code (IgCC).
Echoing the mission to create a community space for creative collaborators, the design team worked closely with local designers and artists commissioned by the Deutsch Foundation to coordinate a unique pallet of colors and materials for the bold transformation. Design of the fit-out of the second floor for the Deutsch Foundation Headquarters was completed by L2 Design. The new space beams with creative energy, showcasing the Foundation’s commitment to the arts and providing affordable and quality workspace for local artists.
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