Volunteers of America (VoA), one of the nation's oldest, largest, and most respected human services organizations, seeked to centralize five of its administrative program offices and improve operational synergies and efficiencies through design. VoA selected The Switzer Group to consolidate the five different locations into one spacious, light-filled new headquarters in Manhattan, New York. The project was completed in January, this year.
The esteemed non-for-profit organization has grown organically across multiple locations and wanted to consolidate its offices and promote more collaboration between team members and efficiency between the different departments within a central location in Midtown, Manhattan.
Inspired by the heritage of the institution, The Switzer Group conceived a design concept that honored VOA's history while seamlessly integrating contemporary elements. The scope of work included a reception area, private offices, open area workstations, a board room, staff meeting rooms, pantry/break areas, open collaboration spaces, copy areas, and support spaces to accommodate the functional and programmatic requirements.
The Switzer Group selected natural materials which added a layer of richness to the space and opted for pops of color to contrast with the sleek monolithic elements inspired by the urban landscape of the city. And for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, calm spaces dotted with points of interest were weaved throughout to office to promote collaboration.
The result is an inspiring and collaborative environment that truly reflects VOA's mission and values. The new office supports and fosters an open dialogue between employees and serves as a recruitment tool to attain the best talent to continue VOA's great work.
