DEPARTMENT OF
VETERANS AFFAIRS
PHASE II
A PROJECT 4 YEARS IN THE MAKING COMES INTO FOCUS
RECAP FROM PHASE 1 (read full story here): The Department of Veterans Affairs, located in Atlanta, is responsible for administering benefit programs for veterans and their families. In early 2021, the VA embarked on a journey to refresh its 153,859 square foot building. The renovation took place while the building continued to be operational, serving veterans throughout the process. The building, constructed in 1999, had not undergone significant updates since its construction.
The project was phased over four years, presenting scheduling and supply challenges; despite this, Corporate Environments provided the client with a one-stop solution, coordinating with existing furniture timelines, layouts, and blocking needs for overheads. The flexibility and value of DIRTT allowed Corporate Environments to implement changes seamlessly, without disrupting other trades.
PHASE II: ENHANCED SOLUTIONS AND MODERNIZATION
In the project's second phase, the Atlanta Veteran Affairs regional office was renamed the Senator Johnny Isakson Department of Veterans Affairs Atlanta Regional Office in honor of the late U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson. Senator Isakson served as chairman of the Senate VA, where he advocated for veterans, service members, and improved access to healthcare.
To support this refreshed identity and enhance employee well-being, Corporate Environments introduced innovative solutions such as centralized trash and recyclable stations. This eliminated individual desk trash cans, reducing cleaning crew efforts and encouraging employees to engage in mindful waste disposal practices. This small yet impactful change promoted movement throughout the workspace and supported employee wellness.
Additionally, Corporate Environments worked to support the VA's move toward a more open concept. With a shift away from high-panel stations, CE engaged with senior and departmental leadership during design development. This included showroom tours to experience different layouts and develop workstation typicals that met both individual and departmental needs. Collaboration throughout this phase ensured successful buy-in and a smooth transition to the open concept environment.
Non-furniture solutions also played a significant role, including DIRTT walls for adaptable spaces and signage for improved wayfinding throughout the office.
Throughout the project, Corporate Environments remained committed to delivering a fresh, open, thoughtful, human-centric, modern, and beautiful environment that will support the Department of Veterans Affairs for years to come.
Year
2024
Location
Partners
Atlanta
Nelson Architects
Gay Construction
Higdon Herring
