LIGHT
SPACE
ARCHITECTURE
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
HCD INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
Washington, DC
Located in Lanham, Maryland, the 12,000 sf office space is the headquarters of an award-winning women-owned health care management and technology consulting firm.
In 2004, when the company first moved in, the space lacked access to daylight and was subdivided into claustrophobic high-walled cubicles. As providers of health-equity and technology-enabled solutions, HCDI knew it needed to upgrade its office space so that it mirrored its core values.
The design integrates dark and light sequences to interrupt a static image, and to create a harmonious sense of continuity in the architectural narrative. The use of light is varied within different contexts; more subdued in the communal lounging areas and brighter in the offices to aid concentration.The center point is a large custom steel planter to add visual interest, and also awaken the senses. Foliage and greenery are strategically placed throughout the office that beautifully complement the office. They act as visual pauses, air purifiers, and stress alleviators that improve the office environment.
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
Point of Action
Van Alan Institute Public Installation
“Who we are as a city is defined by how we interact in our public spaces. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the value of our public spaces and their role in creating connected, healthy, and resilient communities.”
This installation invites one to contemplate the experience of seeing one another—and being seen. In partnership with Cooke John Studio, the inspiration for Point of Action were numerous, but common to all is a heightened awareness of the body’s own conception of space and time as expressed through movement and contemplation.
This installation is comprised of nine metal-framed “halo” that invite “New Yorkers and visitors to contemplate the experience of seeing one another—and being seen,” Once the viewer steps out of their usual routine and into the installation’s threshold, there are multiple opportunities for internal and external connection and contemplation.
This installation was unveiled at the Flatiron/23rd Street Partnership and Van Alen Institute as the 2021 Flatiron Public Plaza Design Installation.
Architect: Cooke John Studio
Lighting Designer: Drummond Projects
