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The Atrium Building

Challenge
Solution
Impact

Challenge

Located only a few blocks from Alexandria’s popular King Street, The Atrium Building has flourished into a vibrant hub for both businesses and the local community. Named for its busy and elaborate 5-story atrium, which sprouts through the center of the building and connects a diverse group of visitors, café-goers, and tenants, The Atrium Building reflects the charm of the historic streets of Old Town, Alexandria. With a goal of boosting the building’s earning potential, the client wanted to reposition the building through the development of modern suites and capitalize on recently completed attractive building amenity spaces such as the central Atrium and exterior rooftop terrace and lounge space.

Solution

The overall design strategy focused on embracing the historical context and architectural elements of the building while incorporating modern design touches. By utilizing a combination of modern design themes and materials unique to the historic Old Town Alexandria, such as terracotta, brick, brass, and rich wood tones, the design team created dynamic, interactive, and versatile suites that appealed to a wide variety of potential occupants. The team maintained existing arched windows to preserve the existing architecture and used acoustic ceiling clouds to diminish sound in open office spaces. Additionally, furniture pieces were selected and arranged to create distinct conversational and work zones. Working to incorporate design elements from a previous FOX Client and fellow tenant located in the building, ALX Community, the design team was able to create a cohesive approach that connects each of the spaces together.

Impact

The initial redesign of the Atrium Building’s third floor proved to be successful, resulting in six of the eight spec suites being leased out immediately. As a result, the landlord engaged FOX Architects to design a turn-key suite for a law firm on the fifth floor. Upon completion, the design team was invited back to design an additional four spec suites, as well as a common area, pantry, and conference area on the fourth floor.

With a combination of modern design aesthetics and historic Old Town Alexandria charm, FOX Architects helped to successfully transform the Atrium Building. This redesign boosted its overall appeal and desirability, turning it into a thriving center of business and community that continues to attract prospective tenants.