ATCC Campus Transformation: A Multi-Phase Design Partnership

From 2017 to 2018, DBI – a GF Company’s interior design work occurred in parallel with the building’s architectural design, laying the groundwork for a sophisticated aesthetic. The expansion building’s construction took place from 2019 to 2020, followed by the interior fit-out from 2020 to 2021. ATCC moved into this new facility in 2022, a building that set a high bar for design, establishing a palette of crisp grays and whites, rich purples, vibrant accents, and warm oak veneer, all while integrating ATCC’s strong scientific brand and mission statement. The goal was to create a professional yet collaborative environment, a standard we proudly helped establish. 

Our design approach was intentional and brand focused. We aimed to create a space that captured the essence of ATCC’s powerful scientific identity. Using a refined palette, thoughtful material choices, and intricate graphics, we ensured every design element reflected their core values, mission, and their overarching mantra: “Credible Leads to Incredible.” 

This vision came to life through a series of thoughtful design decisions, including the following key elements: 

• A Welcoming Prelude: Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking 30-foot ceiling in the main reception atrium, bathed in an abundance of natural light. This grand scale immediately signals ATCC’s stature. 
• The Story Woven In: Adjacent to the reception, a thoughtfully curated gallery space unveils ATCC’s rich history. Here, company artifacts reside alongside a custom timeline charting 95 years of scientific luminaries. Anchoring this space is a monumental stair – not just a pathway, but a deliberate architectural gesture connecting the first-floor conference center with the second-floor office space, physically enhancing daily workflow, collaboration, and human connection. 
• Visualizing “Credible Leads to Incredible”: We translated ATCC’s mission statement into a compelling visual theme. Split-screen imagery became the signature, with one half reflecting the power of credible materials and guidance, and the other depicting the global impact of those materials far beyond the laboratory bench. This narrative visual theme permeated the space, inspiring every corner. 
• Hubs of Collaboration: The first floor was designed as a comprehensive conferencing hub, featuring a boardroom, formal conference rooms of all sizes, dedicated training rooms, quiet phone booths, and even impromptu meeting areas. Equipped with the latest audio-visual technology, these spaces empower ATCC to collaborate seamlessly with clients and team members across the globe.

Building on this successful foundation, our collaboration entered its next significant phase in 2023, with the design initiation for the renovation of ATCC’s existing Executive Building. This comprehensive renovation project aimed to elevate the aesthetic and functionality of two full floors of office space, core restrooms, and critically, the main cafeteria, to match the modern level of design achieved in the recently completed expansion project. The Executive Building project, including the cafeteria, was built in two phases throughout 2024, with the cafeteria delivered in Fall 2024. This project was particularly significant as the cafeteria is designed to serve all ATCC buildings, making it a central hub for the entire campus community. 

While the existing cafeteria in the Executive Building was functional, it felt increasingly out of step with ATCC’s modern, collaborative culture and the sophisticated design established in the newer facilities. It was a utilitarian space that lacked the inviting atmosphere and versatile design needed for a 24/7 facility serving a diverse workforce. Our task was to bring this critical amenity, along with the adjacent office floors, up to the contemporary standard set by the 2022 expansion.

The Solution: A Cohesive and Community-Focused Renovation 

We envisioned a space where staff could truly recharge, whether for a quick coffee, a full meal, or a casual team discussion. The design incorporates: 

• Warm and Inviting Palette: Expanding on the established crisp grays, whites, and rich purple hues from the 2017-2022 building, the cafeteria introduces additional warmth through natural wood tones and varied textures, creating a comforting atmosphere. 
• Flexible Zones for Diverse Needs: The space was planned to offer various seating arrangements, from individual quiet nooks for focused work or relaxation to larger communal tables ideal for team lunches. 
• Integrated Grab-n-Go: An adjacent, in-house grab-n-go station provides fresh sandwiches, beverages, and snacks daily, offering convenience for staff at any time. 
• Enhanced Natural Light: Maximizing natural light was a key consideration, creating a bright and airy environment that contributes to well-being. 
• Subtle Branding Integration: While maintaining a sense of relaxation, the design subtly incorporates ATCC’s brand identity through material choices and thoughtful detailing, reinforcing corporate pride without overwhelming the retreat-like feel. 

Delivered in Fall 2024 as part of the broader Executive Building renovation, the new cafeteria now stands as a vibrant, central hub for the entire ATCC campus. This extensive partnership with ATCC over the last seven years has been led by the dedicated team of Studio Director of Interior Design Michael Boyer and Senior Interior Designer Sarah Gottlieb. They continue to deliver forward-thinking design solutions for both office and lab environments across ATCC’s facilities in Virginia and Maryland.