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Emagine IT

Challenge
Solution
Impact

Challenge

FOX Architects was commissioned by Federal Realty Investment Trust (FRIT) to design three turn-key suites at 909 Rose Ave. The commercial 230,000 SF, 12-story Class A building is a part of a new development in North Bethesda, formerly Rockville, Maryland, which includes shopping centers, restaurants, a dog park, retail, and a movie theater. The FOX team designed each turn-key suite to meet the custom needs of the three tenants.

Emagine IT, an IT and cybersecurity company, expressed its desire to create a new headquarters that combines a sense of hospitality with a strong tech presence for its employees. To fulfill the requirements of Emagine IT while staying within the landlord’s budget and considering future leasing potential, FOX Architects faced the task of creating a customized solution that caters to the tenant’s specific needs. This challenge became even more complex due to Emagine IT’s desire for a distinctive and unconventional aesthetic for their headquarters, departing from the typical look of IT companies. As a result, Emagine IT aimed to personalize the space, select specific furniture, and establish an eclectic layout. In response, FOX Architects had to think creatively to design a complementary space, easily adaptable for future tenants.

Solution

To address the design challenge, FOX Architects’ solution was to create a sleek modern space with warm touches that allowed for personalization by the tenants. The design team constructed a massive reception/cafe/coffee bar area to accommodate the tenant’s 20′ curved sofa and added plenty of huddle and touch-down areas customized by the tenant. It also incorporated a small interior basketball court to allow for creative thinking and de-stressing. Glass walls were utilized throughout the suite as a communication tool whereby employees sketched technology solutions as if they were marker boards. To control acoustics, rugs and soft furniture were recommended to combat any sound issue caused by open ceilings and hard surfaces and finishes. Lastly, the design team strategically placed the pantry and plumbing elements to avoid existing structural obstacles.

Impact

By understanding Emagine IT’s vision and desired aesthetic at the start of the process, FOX Architects was able to create a space that reflected the company’s personality and deviated from the typical appearance of IT firms. The result is a loungey, residential feel that provides a welcoming and comfortable environment for employees and clients alike. Overall, the design solution provided by FOX Architects successfully met the objectives of creating a collaborative environment, personalized spaces for each tenant, and a unique aesthetic that merged hospitality and tech elements for the IT and cybersecurity company.