Project Name/Client: Advanced Medical Technology Association
Design Firm: VOA Associates, Inc
Location: Washington, D.C.
Products: Diced

What is Design?
In initial programming sessions, VOA and AdvaMed identified key objectives for the design of the client’s new offices. Foremost was the need to convey, in the design and layout of the space, the image of a contemporary, modern, high-technology organization while clearly identifying its mission and membership base. A frequent host of high profile members and guests, the client required conferencing facilities providing flexibility for multiple reconfiguration options. To promote collaboration, shared spaces would be placed in prominent locations throughout the space.

How is Design best illustrated through the project?
The design concept for AdvaMed was centered on creating a new, transparent workplace. Allglass offices and meeting areas were incorporated throughout to provide an open, well-lit space. In their new space, AdvaMed sought to create an energetic, lively, bright environment. At the front of the offices, the central conference, staff lounge, and gallery areas are designed to bring staff and visitors together into a “hub” of activity, foster a collaborative work environment as desired by the client and showcase the mission and history of AdvaMed and the Medical Device Industry.

Biggest Design Challenge?
The building presented a challenging floor plan due to its unconventional curved shape, and to the large number of visible, obtrusive columns located in prominent areas, particularly in the main entrance and conference rooms. The non-directional pattern carpet used throughout the space was chosen so that seams would not show when installed against the curvature of the floor plan. Variation in the appearance of the carpet was desired by the client, and therefore a patterned carpet was selected. The brilliant blonde 21111 carpet was chosen to coordinate with the overall “clean” white, silver and wood color scheme.

What made it Innovative or Unique?
The unique aspect of the design process was the integration between VOA’s architectural design with AdvaMed’s mission and vision for their new office space. In all phases of the design, from the color scheme to the finishes to how the floor plan was arranged, telling the client’s story and meeting their goals for the space were addressed. Client goals such as creating collaborative, shared spaces, providing a better lit space, clearly identifying their mission and industry for the visitor from the moment they enter the space, and providing amenities for staff and guests were carefully considered and incorporated into the design.

How did Design make a difference?
AdvaMed’s new offices provide new opportunities to host large functions for association members and guests, while incorporating full audio and videoconferencing capabilities and offering the flexibility to arrange rooms to support specific group sizes and meeting types. A central staff lounge and open areas at the front of the office allow for more frequent interaction and collaboration across the organization. Most importantly, the space clearly and immediately identifies who the client is -- their mission, industry, and organization – through careful coordination and consideration of all aspects of the design, from the smallest detail to the overall layout of the space.

Previous | Next