Harkins HQ Columbia
Columbia, MD
building a space that reflects our culture
Collaboration, learning, community, enjoyment. These were some of the values in our culture that we wanted to build into our new headquarters, but we never imagined how positive an impact the new space would have on our employees. It seems to give our visitors a lift as well. We moved here from our old Colonial-style building in December of 2016, and, with the help of our incredibly talented design partners, we designed and fitted out 20,000 sf on the fourth floor at 60 Corporate Center. The space reflects our market-based corporate structure and is designed to help us take our 50-year history of comprehensive client service to the next level.
The majority of the Harkins team works in open work spaces, where particular attention was paid to acoustics, and a balance between collaboration and privacy. There are also team rooms that division leaders and preconstruction managers use as their offices. The office features a coffeehouse and lounge area, a training center, and an abundance of meeting, private work, and phone call spaces.
We knew the redesign would bring everyone in closer proximity to one another, but never imagined the other positive ramifications the space would have on employee spirit. A survey confirmed this design resulted in increased employee happiness and engagement, more seamless teamwork, and increased productivity. A company that was once change-and-risk-averse reorganized and relocated to a completely different kind of office space in a completely different neighborhood.
How Harkins Made a Difference
- The team was expert at understanding and incorporating the design intent into the details of the work. They took Verve’s vision and brought it to reality.
- We were so productive in our new office that just one year later we had to cut a hole in the floor and build a staircase down to additional space below, designed and fitted-out in the same new Harkins style.
This project not only indicates Harkins’ commitment to their craft, but a commitment to their culture as an organization.
Awards & Certifications
ABC Metro Baltimore
Excellence in Construction – Award of Merit
Commercial Tenant Fit-Out
NAIOP MD
Excellence in Construction – Best Interior Tenant Fit-Out