Winchester, VA
Susquehanna Technologies purchased the historic Kurtz Building in the downtown historic district of Winchester, Virginia in 2007 to become their headquarters. The top floor of the Kurtz building was a perfect space for their Creative Studio, a staff of 15 highly creative cyber designers who require a stimulating studio environment. The Clients commissioned MSA to design an interior build-out that would honor the historic context of the space with exposed brick shell walls and timber super-structure while allowing for a stimulating, creative space. The design concept was to juxtapose the historic framework with modern elements by creating work stations in the large central space using salvaged window sashes and low-rise hard partitions that defined the work stations without a “cubicle” feel. The tops of the partitions were sculpted to different heights to create a “city skyline” within the room while a segmental glass partition creates a small meeting area and a radius point from which the lighting system emanates. The linear lighting system employs a daylight harvesting option so that energy is conserved when possible but a minimum foot candle illumination is maintained. A conference room, offices for directors, accessible toilet rooms, and a cafe/kitchenette space round out the program. Materials were selected for their sustainability and as much salvaged and repurposed material was used as possible. VDHR holds an easement on the building and approved the design. The project was completed in 2008.
