FLIR Systems Offices – Arlington
FOX Architects has recently completed the office design for FLIR Systems, a thermal imaging and camera component company, located in Arlington, Virginia.
Technology leader and government contractor FLIR Systems wanted a new east coast headquarters with an interactive demonstration center for customers to experience FLIR’s unique thermal imaging products. FLIR wanted this office, located in a former gym, to set a brand standard for future FLIR locations. Another goal was to support a collaborative company culture by connecting employees across departments, which would be located on different sides of a long, narrow floor plate.
Because FLIR’s thermal imaging products use light and optics to uncover what typically goes unnoticed, the design team used this concept for the ceiling and lighting design. Leveraging the former gym’s 15-foot ceiling height, the design team up-lit the white, tall volumes to create a bright, welcoming space. Circular pendants create an architectural canopy that defines open work areas. Linear light fixtures serve as wayfinding and connect both ends of the space toward amenities that are centrally located to encourage collaboration: café, reception, conference center, video conference room, and huddle rooms. Wood ceiling accents make these spaces more inviting and set them apart with a unique design feature. Inspired by FLIR’s distinct, overlapping pixel logo, the design team replicated the logo’s angles in light fixtures, patterns in finishes, and by creating an angular, iridescent reveal that wraps around the reception feature wall. Clean, modern finishes highlight FLIR’s products and thermal imaging artwork.
FOX Architects successfully converted a former gym in a mixed-use building into a functional, corporate space for this government contractor. Despite a long, narrow floor plate and 15-foot ceiling height, the design team created an office that feels connected and welcoming for staff and visitors.
Design: FOX Architects
Contractor: Bognet Construction
Photography: John Cole
