NASBA Corporate Headquarters

Breaking Down the Silos

NASBA was facing significant challenges associated with employee communication and departmental silos due to the dissemination of staff over three non-contiguous floors that were served by two separate elevator banks. Our design solution centered on connectivity and social interaction, with a large aperture in the floor at reception and a monumental connecting stair becoming a central focal point and a primary nexus between two hubs comprising a variety of training and meeting spaces on the sixth and seventh floors.

Goodbye Dark & Dreary, Hello Transparency

Prior to the renovation, most of the building’s perimeter was occupied by windowless offices of different shapes and sizes, creating a dark, maze-like circulation pattern. To promote a spirit of transparency among coworkers, we introduced glass at virtually every walled space to open up the workplace. To maximize daylight and increase visibility, all-glass offices and meeting rooms were pushed primarily to the interior of the building. Low panels between work stations were also used to bring natural light into the space. A modern color palette and eye-catching graphics also breathe new life into the work environment.

Places to Gather

On the seventh floor, an open area outside of shared conference room space offers a place for employees to gather for pre- or post-function interaction. This floor also features a large, café-style break area with an expansive communal picnic table that encourages staff to eat lunch together instead of at their desks, fostering collaboration.

A Newfound Camaraderie

Unifying NASBA employees, Gresham Smith’s design creates a vibrant environment that provides staff with a newfound camaraderie thanks to ample open and closed collaborative work areas, and a variety of options for formal meetings, casual gatherings and dining.