Wave

Aberdeen, MD

Stephens Architectural Associates suggested accomplishing the necessary infrastructure to the WAVE building as part-one of a two-phase permit process, allowing the machinery to be moving in while management offices were being built under phase-two. This innovative insight allowed for minimal downtime in manufacturing processes. Nardi Construction was invaluable in their ability to provide needed construction knowledge and experience, as well as the crucial labor to accomplish construction in a timely manner.

The phase-two office build-out allowed Stephens Architectural Associates to flex their superb design muscles in using a wide palette of materials and bright colors in providing a modern and exciting office environment—different from the usual drab corporate offices. The corridors on the first floor can be thought of as the “circulation lifeline” similar to a human artery supplying blood to the working body. The bright color provides a unique liveliness that equates to circulation, while providing a break from the usual whites and grays typically seen in corporate environments. In the offices, a more tranquil green is utilized to promote a peaceful environment for accomplishing tasks. In corridors where employees will circulate, a serene light blue was used to give a cool feel upon departure from the potentially warmer production environment. The employee lockers are earth tones to hide dirt and to give a more natural feel, instead of the usual starkness of many locker rooms.

Many different Armstrong products were used in providing different textures for the various rooms. Most people are familiar with Armstrong Excellon VCT and the typical cost-efficient line of ceiling products, but Armstrong also has linoleum products, ceramic tile, and even wood flooring and kitchen cabinetry. These and other unusual ceiling products were used to give various rooms and spaces a unique character. Here at Stephens Architectural Associates we are very proud of the results of our partnership with WAVE, and their encouragement to branch-out from traditional design ideas, and equally proud of the partnership with Nardi Construction, for their ability in transforming ideas from paper to reality. We know that the results standout from the ordinary and speak well for themselves.