DYNAMIC DESIGN DRIVES AT
1700 PENNSYLVANIA AVE
capturing capital charm: colorful creativity at
1700 Pennsylvania Ave’s Parking Garage
Just steps away from the political pulse of the nation, 1700 Pennsylvania Ave in Washington, DC, a utilitarian parking space has been transformed into a vibrant, engaging entry experience. Learn more about how Lauren and her team worked to infuse a bit of creativity and joy into the way visitors and employees experience the normally mundane act of parking.
project overview
Located in a prime DC area, the 1700 Pennsylvania Ave property boasts proximity to iconic landmarks, including the White House. Tasked by the Akridge commercial real estate agency, Studio 618 was set to infuse the garage of this workplace property with art that not only guides but enlivens the everyday journey from car to cubicle.
design inspiration
The inspiration for the garage graphics was rooted in the property's illustrious neighborhood. "Our goal was to mirror the vitality and significance of the area through fun and inviting visuals that make every entry an experience," explains Lauren. The project encompassed several elements: the main entry experience, elevator corridor graphics, bike room supergraphics, and electric vehicle (EV) station designs.
creative process
Starting with the entry experience, Lauren and her team decided to highlight the location’s visual and historical context within the artwork. Each design element was conceived to reflect the energy and aesthetic of Washington, DC, using supergraphics and vibrant colors to create a sense of welcome and excitement.
For the bike room, named "Gears and Wheels," the design incorporated oversized, colorful graphics of bicycle gears and wheels, transforming a previously bland space into a dynamic area that energizes residents before their ride. The EV charging stations were treated with equally vibrant graphics, featuring playful slogans and creative imagery to make charging an enjoyable part of the garage visit.
fabrication and installation
Lauren’s trusted partners at Tech Painting Co. were responsible for bringing the designs to life. Their expertise in large-scale graphic installations ensured that each piece was not only visually stunning but also durable and fitting to the garage’s daily wear and tear. "Working with Tech Painting Co. allowed us to push the boundaries of traditional garage aesthetics," Lauren notes.
material selection and artistic execution
The materials chosen were specifically selected for their durability and ability to hold vibrant colors. High-quality paints and coatings were used to ensure longevity, considering the garage's exposure to traffic and environmental factors. The design process involved detailed sketches, digital renderings, and careful planning of the layout to maximize visual impact and navigational efficacy. Lauren was also able to leverage her background in digital illustration and watercolor, something the artist in her really appreciates.
client and community impact
The newly designed parking garage at 1700 Pennsylvania Ave has been met with enthusiasm from both the client and the users. The colorful and thematic designs have transformed a routine part of employees' and visitors' day into an uplifting experience. The garage has become a topic of conversation, enhancing the property’s appeal and setting a new standard for workplace garages.
challenges and triumphs
One of the main challenges was the spatial constraints and the need to maintain a clear wayfinding system amidst the bold designs. Lauren’s team skillfully balanced functionality with aesthetics, ensuring that the graphics enhanced the space without overwhelming it. "It’s crucial that our designs serve to beautify and assist, not confuse or clutter," Lauren states.
+
final thoughts
This unique project showcases Studio 618’s ability to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. Through thoughtful design, collaboration, and meticulous execution, Lauren Stern and her team have created a parking garage that not only serves its functional purpose but does so with style and storytelling flair. "Every corner of a building offers an opportunity for innovation and impression," says Lauren of the project’s success. "Our work here is a testament to the power of environmental graphics to transform spaces and perceptions alike."