/ To explore original design solutions for every client.
/ To create meaningful experiences of place for you.
/ To transform disparate elements into beautiful forms.
At DBI, we are inspired by the spark—that vivid and powerful moment when a client’s needs and a designer’s vision coalesce into one cohesive design strategy. Our designers’ enthusiasm and expertise ensure that this strategy is implemented in the best possible way, developing client spaces of unparalleled functionality and sophistication.
RANDOLPH TOWERS | ARLINGTON, VA
PORTFOLIO
AMENITIES — TENANT LOUNGES
When incorporating tenant lounges into affordable housing multifamily residential structures, architects and designers can employ several cost-effective strategies. The key is to create functional, inviting spaces that enhance community living without breaking the bank.
One approach is to focus on flexible, multi-purpose areas that can serve various functions. For example, a lounge space could double as a co-working area during the day and a social gathering spot in the evenings. This maximizes the utility of limited square footage and reduces the need for multiple dedicated rooms.
Selecting durable, low-maintenance materials is crucial for long-term cost savings. Opt for resilient flooring options and easy-to-clean surfaces that can withstand heavy use. Consider using affordable wall coverings to add visual interest without significant expense.
Lighting plays a vital role in creating an inviting atmosphere. Maximize natural light where possible to reduce energy costs, and supplement with efficient LED lighting fixtures. When it comes to furniture, prioritize versatile, modular pieces that can be easily reconfigured for different uses.
To create a sense of comfort and community on a budget, incorporate biophilic elements like plants, which can enhance the space’s appeal at a relatively low cost. Additionally, consider implementing simple technology solutions like Wi-Fi access or charging stations, which can add value without significant expense.
AMENITIES — TENANT LOUNGES
AMENITIES — FITNESS ROOMS
Fitness rooms can be incorporated into amenity spaces, even when budget is a concern. Designers can employ several cost-effective strategies. One key approach is to focus on creating multifunctional spaces that can serve as fitness areas as well as other purposes. This maximizes the utility of limited square footage and reduces the need for dedicated rooms.
Selecting durable, low-maintenance materials is crucial for long-term cost savings. Resilient flooring options like rubber or other specialized gym flooring can withstand heavy use without frequent replacement. In small spaces, strategic use of mirrors can create an illusion of more space while serving a functional purpose for exercisers, as well.
Lighting plays a significant role in creating an energizing atmosphere. Maximize natural light where possible to reduce energy costs, and supplement with efficient LED lighting fixtures.
When it comes to equipment, prioritize versatile, space-saving options like wallmounted storage solutions and multifunctional exercise machines.
Technology integration can be costeffective in the long run. Consider incorporating digital screens for ondemand workout classes or virtual training sessions, which can reduce the need for dedicated instructors.
Lastly, focus on creating an open layout that allows for easy movement and flexibility in equipment arrangement. This approach not only enhances functionality but also reduces the need for extensive built-in features, helping to keep construction costs down.
AMENITIES — FITNESS ROOMS
277 SOUTH WASHINGTON STREET
SIZE
16,000 SF
LOCATION
Alexandria, VA
COMPLETION
October 2021
PROJECT TEAM
Avison Young
Kenwood Construction
MGV Consultants
Linton Engineering
LD7 Studio, LLC
DESCRIPTION
Located near Alexandria’s historic Old Town district at the original location of the Alexandria Hospital, this Class A commercial office space represents a perfect blend of the modern and the classic. The building’s previously underutilized atrium and penthouse have been transformed into beautiful, highly functional and flexible spaces for use by all the building’s tenants. The building’s exterior facade has been tastefully updated to stand out among its peers while blending into the historical context of Old Town Alexandria. An open and airy atrium design welcomes visitors with plenty of light, activating the space in a human-scale, collaborative, multifunctional design. Artistic atrium shade sails provide tenants a respite from the sun in the now dynamically furnished lobby that is flexible enough to accommodate anything from intimate gatherings to large events. Brick construction elements are positioned as a design feature in the penthouse common areas, resonating with the historical importance of the site. New high-quality finishes elevate the penthouse space, which includes a coffee bar, varied collaboration spaces, training room, and a dedicated conference room. The rooftop terrace features a newly constructed pergola and furniture that create a comfortable, functional gathering area for tenants to enjoy.
RANDOLPH TOWERS
LOCATION
Arlington, VA
COMPLETION
December 2015
DESCRIPTION
This ground-floor visitor and resident support space embodies the high standards of the apartment complex. The objective was to design a completely new look for the existing first-floor reception and lobby space that would support the 500-unit building. DBI collaborated with Dittmar Company to develop a timeless design for the business center, resident lounge with kitchen, mail room, guest center, restrooms, and management offices.
The glass-enclosed gas fireplace draws residents and guests into the lounge. The lounge is bounded by a curved wood veneer wall, punctuated with transparent glass doors, that connects to the main reception area and concierge. DBI also selected the wide variety of furniture and equipment utilized in the space.
RANDOLPH TOWERS
ARLINGTON, VA
SIZE
41,732 RSF
LOCATION
Washington, DC
COMPLETION April 2012
CONSTRUCTION COST
$62/RSF
CERTIFICATION
LEED Silver
PROJECT TEAM Cresa
HITT Construction
Tolk (now Dewberry)
American Office - Herman Miller
DESCRIPTION
The design philosophy for NAM’s new headquarters was to keep the palette simple, using only a few materials and focus on the architectural details while infusing natural light into the space. Walnut veneer creates an executive feel and floor-to-ceiling photography captures images of the past 130 years of manufacturing. Use of glass creates a visual connection among interior spaces and between the interior and exterior environments. New ways of working, rapid and concise communications, and cost-effective operations are the hallmarks for this new headquarters.
LOOKOUT AT 6400
LOCATION
Falls Church, VA
COMPLETION
March 2020
PROJECT TEAM
Boundtrain
LF Jennings
Metropolitan Engineering
Price Modern
DESCRIPTION
This conversion of an outdated former bank headquarters transformed a dated and dark space into a light-filled and welcoming amenity for the tenants of Lookout at 6400. Opening the interior space to the building’s panoramic views of Northern Virginia brings a “trophy-class” amenity to the property. Elements such as hardwood floors, fireplace, and crown molding were retained, adding warmth and charm.
EXECUTIVE PLAZA
LOCATION
Bethesda, MD
COMPLETION
June 2021
PROJECT TEAM MCRE Pollinger
GPI Engineering
Price Modern
DESCRIPTION
For this 160,000-SF, Class A commercial office building, DBI refreshed the lower level amenities hub, including WiFi-enabled creative lounge, game room, bike storage room, and fitness center with locker rooms and yoga room. Additionally, the main floor lobby and all elevator lobbies were renovated, a mother’s room was added on the 2nd floor, and speculative suites were created on the 2nd and 7th floors to attract prospective tenants. The new outdoor courtyard accommodates both working and leisure while providing a connection to nature for the building tenants. Executive Plaza’s branding palette was incorporated into the wayfinding and building amenities for a stylish, cohesive look, and the large art piece in the main building lobby incorporates the building logo and colors in a sophisticated and upscale way.
CHEVY CHASE PLAZA
SIZE
5,500 SF
LOCATION
Washington, DC
COMPLETION
July 2021
PROJECT TEAM
Barings
Transwestern
DFS Construction
DESCRIPTION
The use of tastefully bold, jewel-toned colors and warm wood tones throughout the new amenity space at Chevy Chase Plaza serve to brighten and modernize the space while giving it a luxurious feel. Adding additional lighting with carefully selected color temperature adds to the warm and inviting feel. The patterned wallcoverings, furniture, custom built-in wood shelving, and light fixtures accentuate the subtle mid-century vibe of the space. Signage and wayfinding were introduced to the elevator lobbies at the B1, B2, and B3 levels.
CHEVY CHASE PLAZA
575 HERNDON PARKWAY
SIZE 10,000 SF
LOCATION
Herndon, VA
COMPLETION
March 2021
PROJECT TEAM
Bristol Capital Corporation
HITT Contracting
Girard Engineering
Linton Engineering
THA Furniture - Price Modern
DESCRIPTION
DBI was approached by Bristol Capital Corporation to renovate the building’s main lobby and bring new purpose to the outdated space. Prior to renovation, the lobby space was primarily a sitting area with no significant functionality for the tenants of the building. The main lobby is fragmented into three unique pockets of space by the two separate elevator towers. DBI’s designers envisioned the three connected spaces each with their own function. A palette of bright white, exposed concrete, specialty prefinished metals, and warm wood tones is highlighted by furniture in bold accent colors that bring a bright and vibrant energy that invites users into the space. Design in the north lobby included a reception desk at the main entrance to accommodate security needs and a multifunction seating area. The south lobby was equipped with banquette and bar-height seating that can accommodate dining, working, relaxation, or small meetings. The central lobby was completely reimagined, turning it into a well-lit multifunction area with banquette seating built into the stairs and adding a lighted design element that span across the ceiling and along both walls, creating visual interest, drawing users into the space, and connecting the north and south lobbies and improving the flow and cohesiveness of the space.
CROWN RIDGE
SIZE 6,290 SF
LOCATION
Fairfax, VA
COMPLETION
January 2021
PROJECT TEAM
Cushman & Wakefield
HWB Construction
GPI Engineering
RGA
Price Modern
DESCRIPTION
At Crown Ridge, DBI undertook the renovation of an outdated building lobby and conference center, along with a build-out of a tenant lounge. The conference center was renovated to include two rooms that can open to combine into one large space, and that can also open to the front seating area of the lounge. The lounge was outfitted with several types of seat groupings, allowing multiple groups to utilize the space for different purposes simultaneously.
2900 CRYSTAL DRIVE
LOCATION
Arlington, VA
COMPLETION
June 2021
PROJECT TEAM
TWC Contracting
GPI Engineering
Price Modern
DESCRIPTION
DBI undertook several projects at 2900 Crystal Drive including the revivification of the main lobby, creation of a tenant lounge, and improvement of the building’s exterior presence to improve the experience for current tenants and to attract new tenants to the building. Just off the main lobby, an outdated 2,301-SF office space was converted into a comfortable and modern lounge for tenants. The new space features a coffee bar, flexible open seating area, arcade games, and a fireplace lounge. Open plenum ceilings and a glass entry to the lounge create a visually uninterrupted experience. A custom solid oak trellis with integral lighting acts as an anchor, creating a relaxed and cozy spot for tenants. This renovated space creates new flexible options for all tenants; whether a staff event, grabbing a cup of coffee in the morning, team collaboration through a quick game break, or conducting private meetings, the new tenant lounge is designed to fill a range of needs. The interior trellis design was carried over into the outdoor lounge space, and the mixture of high-top tables and lounge seating, string lights, and lanterns makes the building an appealing oasis along Route 1. The main lobby was expanded to 4,339 square feet, finishes were brightened and modernized featuring custom glass panels and lighting, and bar-height tables, divider panels, and live edge oak window ledges create additional flexible spaces for tenant use.
SIZE
19,750 RSF
LOCATION
Reston, VA
COMPLETION
February 2019
PROJECT TEAM
Rubenstein Partners
Newmark Knight Frank KTA Group
Linton Engineering
DESCRIPTION
Rubenstein Partners undertook the transformation of a 188,000-SF outdated office building into a Class A, amenity-rich asset. The project’s objective was to create sophisticated, vibrant, and collaborative environments that accommodate various work styles and tenant activities. The scope included the renovation of a 5-story atrium lobby, featuring stone floors, custom millwork, and a sleek glass vestibule; a new, reconfigurable conference facility; a new elevator and upgrades to existing elevators and restrooms; an exterior terrace; a new fitness center; and a new mechanical system. The project’s showstopping element was the adaptive reuse of a 5-bay loading dock into a 4,000-SF tenant lounge. “The Dock,” as the space is known, includes a barista station, food service bar, and central “hang-out” hub with bleacher-style seating.
2245 AT HERNDON METRO
SIZE 27,046 RSF
LOCATION
Herndon, VA
COMPLETION
March 2019
PROJECT TEAM
Barings Real Estate
Transwestern HITT Contracting KTA Group, Inc.
Bialek
DESCRIPTION
For this repositioning project, Transwestern selected DBI to redesign several amenities spaces within this Class A, 6-story office building located within walking distance of the Herndon Metro. Scope of work areas renovated include the building’s main lobby, core restrooms, elevator cabs, a tenant lounge and game room, an 80-seat conference center, a fitness center with locker rooms, an on-site, 45-seat café, and a new outdoor terrace with covered seating. DBI provided a full furniture package and is currently designing the building’s marketing suite.
DULLES EXECUTIVE PLAZA
SIZE 11,000 RSF
LOCATION
Herndon, VA
COMPLETION
November 2018
PROJECT TEAM
Normandy Real Estate Partners
Northpoint Construction
DDG Virginia Enginnering Dancker
DESCRIPTION
DBI repositioned this 167,039-SF commercial office building, located a short walk from the future Innovation Center Metro and only 3 miles from Dulles International Airport. The scope of work included: modernizing the main lobby and restrooms; designing a new amenities facility, which features a 16-seat boardroom with full AV/IT capabilities, as well as a 96-occupant conference suite that can be reconfigured into two smaller conference rooms; designing a fitness center (with locker rooms and showers) and an exterior plaza, featuring new entry and exit doors from the fitness center, café, and lounge areas to facilitate access between DEP I and II. Conference areas, also offering informal at-bar seating, are supported by an adjacent pantry, kitchen, servery, and café.
DULLES
THE FLATS AT NEABSCO
SIZE
10,000 SF
LOCATION
Woodbridge, VA
COMPLETION
October 2015
PROJECT TEAM
Uniwest Construction
DESCRIPTION
DBI assisted Uniwest with the design and furniture selections for the 9,000-SF public amenity spaces at Neabsco Commons. This scope included the overall design concept for the main entry, elevator lobby, leasing center, business center, great room, conferencing spaces, lounge areas, and screening room.
WILLOW OAKS CORPORATE CENTER
LOCATION
Fairfax, VA
COMPLETION
Multiple Projects, 2015-2021
PROJECT TEAM
KBS Realty Advisors
DFS Construction
Diamond Construction
LF Jennings
GPI Engineering
Price Modern (Cafe/Lounge)
DESCRIPTION
Willow Oaks Corporate Center is a threebuilding office complex. The owner sought to turn the building into a next-generation workplace, enlivening its common spaces with a distinctive amenity mix that added value for employers and appealed to a Millennial audience. Prior to renovation, the building’s lower level had a dull, dreary vibe. The team used light-hued materials strategically to reenergize and reinvigorate the property. Designers incorporated glass accents, luxe wallpapers, bright pops of color, and memorable artwork to give the property’s shared facilities an uplifting, modern edge.
BRICKYARD
SIZE
8,000 RSF
LOCATION
Ashburn, VA
COMPLETION
January 2016
PROJECT TEAM
Clarke-Hook Contracting
DESCRIPTION
The objective of this project was to create a co-working office space to serve the Washington, DC suburb of Ashburn. This space will serve as a “third place” between home and office, and the idea of blending the two is reflected in the design. Cozy seating welcomes visitors and doubles as a casual meeting space. Bar-height countertops allow for touchdown workspace and expansion room to accommodate social events. The open studio layout features open desking and minimal separation between stations, encouraging collaboration and flexibility. Natural materials and textures are met with small but intentional pops of color. The carpet patterns blend to create the look of a Turkish rug, reinforcing the “third place” concept.
CHEVY CHASE PLAZA
SIZE
5,500 SF
LOCATION
Washington, DC
COMPLETION
July 2021
CONSTRUCTION COST
$141/RSF
PROJECT TEAM
Barings
Transwestern
DFS Construction
DESCRIPTION
The use of tastefully bold, jewel-toned colors and warm wood tones throughout the new amenity space at Chevy Chase Plaza serve to brighten and modernize the space while giving it a luxurious feel. Adding additional lighting with carefully selected color temperature adds to the warm and inviting feel. The patterned wallcoverings, furniture, custom built-in wood shelving, and light fixtures accentuate the subtle mid-century vibe of the space. Signage and wayfinding were introduced to the elevator lobbies at the B1, B2, and B3 levels.
CHEVY CHASE PLAZA
FIRM PROFILE
WHO WE ARE
Since its inception in 1973, DBI has provided full-service architecture and interior design services to clients who share our belief that beautiful environments foster meaningful human interaction and successful business outcomes. We have not only witnessed, but have been pioneers of, the evolution of design. As a result, we have extensive and authentic knowledge of, and experience with, designing state-of-the-art building interiors. Our work embraces forward-thinking, contemporary design, so that our clients’ spaces exemplify the most cuttingedge, dynamic, and creative approaches.
Our clients include the commercial real estate community; federal government agencies; corporations and technology firms; the hospitality and restaurant industry; and local, national, and international organizations. With our office in the Washington, DC region, DBI is ideally located to respond rapidly to project needs and to adhere to rigorous production schedules. Our mid-sized firm is able to meet the demands of large projects while being intimately involved in their design— we are large enough to deliver and small enough to care.
DBI recognizes that the design of our built environment has a lasting effect on the health of our natural environment. As a member of the US Green Building Council, DBI ensures that a significant percentage of our designers are LEED® or WELL accredited and, whenever possible, specifies materials, furniture, and other products that are sustainable and energy efficient.
To reduce and monitor the environmental footprint of our projects, we maintain a carefully planned and integrated technological design platform that harnesses state-of-theart architectural design software. In addition to conveying
conceptual designs quickly and in great detail, we are able to perform building energy and performance analyses to determine which architectural designs have the least environmental impact. Our technological platform also enables us to create highly coordinated sets of construction documents that link building component information to external databases for post-occupancy space and asset management.
CLIENTS
Associations
Nonprofits
Corporations
Developers, Owners, Brokers
Property Managers
Government Agencies
Institutions
Religious Organizations
Schools
Technology Companies
OFFICES
Atlanta, GA [HQ] | Charleston, SC | Charlotte, NC | Chicago, IL
Columbus, OH | Greenville, SC | Los Angeles, CA | Myrtle Beach, SC
New York, NY | Orlando, FL | Somerville, NJ | Washington, DC
Mexico City | Hong Kong | Singapore
1984 Isaac Newton Square West, Suite 400 Reston, VA 20190
www.DBIA.com
703.787.0882
SERVICES
As a GF company DBI can provide a broad range of architectural, engineering, and design services
MASTER PLANNING From the beginning of a project, our master planning services comprehensively evaluate the characteristics of a specific property, then, illustrate the design concepts that work best for the site. Our experience and expertise provide a reliable guide through the range of land use, zoning, traffic, environmental, and demographic issues that arise during complex projects.
LAND DEVELOPMENT With some of the most experienced and knowledgeable site development professionals in the industry, the GF companies provide clients with rapid, thorough, and accurate assessments of whether a deal will work.
The GF team of front-end design, real estate, legal and business specialists bring unrivaled resources and experience to every aspect of site development, while GF’s construction management experts help bring the project through completion, on time, and budget.
ARCHITECTURE architectural portfolio is made up of commercial office buildings, private schools, colleges and universities, and churches – the identity, style, and appeal of each defined by a unique and sophisticated approach. Bringing deep expertise in building design, we strive to maximize functionality, utility, and value, meeting the demands of large projects while being intimately involved in the details.
INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN We offer a full range of architecture and design services to create interiors that are elegant and functional. Our clients include the commercial real estate community; federal government agencies; corporate, association, and legal end-user organizations; technology firms; and local, national, and international organizations.
MEP ENGINEERING Through an integrated, highly collaborative, and tailored approach, GF’s MEP design practice offers a wide spectrum of solutions for the commercial and retail development communities. Often involved from the outset of a project through construction administration, GF engineers provide a tailored set of services for each client and project.
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING GF’s structural engineering capabilities span over three decades of experience with diverse building types, including a wide range of corporate, commercial, retail, residential, hospitality, industrial, entertainment, government/institutional and mixed-use. This experience extends to specialized structures such as signs, towers, retaining walls, and water detention facilities.
CIVIL ENGINEERING GF has a team of experts who are well versed in implementing solutions for the most complicated sites from redevelopment sites, floodplains, difficult utility relocations, to areas requesting sustainable design elements. GF has worked on thousands of projects worldwide and has provided services such as environmental mitigation and stormwater management to bringing in site utilities and site access; this range of experience guarantees the client that GF efficiently provides solutions that are in the best interests of everyone involved. GF ensures all aspects are considered before a plan is proposed.
SERVICES
SURVEYING At GF, our surveying services are foundational to our integrated approach to design and construction. We offer comprehensive land surveying capabilities to support all phases of project development. Our team utilizes the latest technology to deliver precise, reliable results, ensuring your project is built on accurate data.
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Any great project begins with an understanding and response to the conditions of the site. Our approach to landscape architecture centers on applying our place-making skills to create a remarkable experience in both the short-term and over the longest span. By working with a client to analyze their space, we introduce a human scale to nature, concentrating on the ways in which living and non-living forms interact. Working seamlessly with all other disciplines, we incorporate concepts that include both public and intimate spaces while integrating hardscapes, view corridors and people flows.
STEALTH DESIGN Beginning with the design of computer rooms in the early 1980s, we have created a variety of technology-oriented spaces, including network operation centers, switch sites, data centers, advanced concept laboratories, and video teleconferencing centers.
FURNITURE MANAGEMENT From systems furniture and casegoods for office spaces to complex solutions for operations, command, and conference centers, we can coordinate furniture requirements for all spaces. In addition to creating a furniture plan tailored to the specifications of any project, we offer guidance in manufacturer selections and workspace designs; handle procurement and installation processes; and manage all vendors on-site.
EXTENDED CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION To ensure that a project is completed according to the price agreed upon during bidding, we provide extended part- or full-time representation at the construction site. We monitor the project’s progress and quality of work, as well as the contractor’s construction schedule; respond to requests for information; maintain project records; evaluate shop drawings, product data, and samples; review the contractor’s applications for payment; conduct inspections to determine substantial and final completion; and administer project closeout procedures.
MOVE MANAGEMENT/FACILITY MANAGEMENT We provide consulting and on-site facility management services to corporate, institutional, and government clients. Whether moving a bookcase or coordinating an entire office relocation, we successfully implement move and facility management policies by partnering with our clients to understand their organization’s structure, business goals, and culture. Projects encompass both daily moves and complete reconfigurations due to growth, contraction, or mission changes, as well as special projects that support the client. Specific tasks have included “box” moves for thousands of people to different locations within the same building, or between different facilities, as well as consolidation or expansion of space between floors, or from building to building.
COLUMBIA BASIN HEALTH ASSOCIATION | OTHELLO, WA
DBI continues to develop a deep portfolio of projects achieving various levels of LEED certifications.
LEED Gold
American Counseling Association | Alexandria, VA
American Wind Energy Association | Washington, DC
AOL/Mapquest | Lancaster, PA
DBI Architects | Washington, DC
Marine Corps Reserve Center (MCRC) | Baltimore, MD
Twinbrook Place Office Building | Rockville, MD
LEED Silver
Intelligence Community Campus – Bethesda | Bethesda, MD
BAE Systems – Newington | Lorton, VA
BAE Systems – Quantico Corporate Center, Building G | Quantico, VA
BAE Systems – Redland Corporate Center | Rockville, MD
National Association of Manufacturers | Washington, DC
USAID Training Facility | Arlington, VA
LEED Certified
Undisclosed Government Agency | Washington, DC
1425 K Street | Washington, DC
AOL | Nashville, TN
GeoEye | Herndon, VA
Subway Café | Washington, DC
Summit Consulting, LLC | Washington, DC
The Tower Companies – 1909 K Street Speculative Office | Washington, DC
U.S. Consulate | Mumbai, India
SUSTAINABILITY
DBI recognizes that the design of our built environment has a lasting effect on the health of our natural environment. DBI Architects is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and a significant percentage of DBI’s design staff are LEED® or WELL accredited. All DBI staff are committed to the importance of environmental issues and their impact on the design of our built environment.
When specifying finishes, fixtures, materials, or furniture, DBI specifies recycled materials wherever possible, does not consider woods from endangered rain forests, and avoids materials that have a long-term, detrimental effect on the environment. The firm’s goal is to incorporate goods that are sustainable, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly.
AWARDS
OCTO OLABS
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2023 Award of Merit
AMBU
Associated Builders and Contractors, Greater Baltimore - 2023
Excellence in Construction Platinum Award
AMERICAN COUNSELING ASSOCIATION
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2022 Award of Merit
CITY OF DIAMONDS RESORT
Outstanding Property Award, London - 2021 Environmental/
Sustainable Architectural Design Award
COOKOLOGY
Associated Builders and Contractors, Metro Washington - 2020
Excellence in Construction Award
CABOOSE COMMONS
James M. Scott - 2019 Exceptional Design Merit Award
FN AMERICA, LLC
AIA Northern Virginia - 2019 Award of Merit, Commerical Interiors
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2019 Award of Merit
AMERICAN WIND ENERGY ASSOCIATION
(NOW AMERICAN CLEAN POWER)
NAIOP DC|MD - 2017 Award of Merit
INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY CAMPUS–BETHESDA
USGBC – 2017 Innovative Project of the Year Responsible Design Award
Design-Build Institute of America – 2017 National Award of Merit,
Rehabilitation / Renovation / Restoration
Building Design and Construction – 2017 Building Team Award, Bronze
AIA Northern Virginia – 2016 Award of Merit, Excellence in Architecture
AIA Potomac Valley Chapter – 2016 Honor Award
EMERGENT BIOSOLUTIONS, INC.
IIDA - 2016 Award of Merit
CABOOSE BREWING COMPANY
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2015 Award of Excellence
SUMMIT CONSULTING, LLC
NAIOP DC|MD - 2015 Award of Excellence
AIA Northern Virginia - 2015 Award of Merit, Commerical Interiors
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER BOARD OF STANDARDS, INC.
IIDA - 2015 Design Award
MANDIANT CORPORATION
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2013 Award of Merit
GETWELLNETWORK, INC.
AIA Northern Virginia - 2014 Award of Merit, Commerical Interiors
IIDA - 2014 Silver Design Award
GEOEYE, INC. (NOW MAXAR)
WBC - 2012 Craftsmanship Award
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2011 Award of Excellence
BAE SYSTEMS
NAIOP DC|MD - 2011 Award of Excellence
INTER-AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
Associated Builders and Contractors - 2011 Craftsmanship Award
CLAUDE MOORE ACADEMY
Associated Builders and Contractors - 2011 Craftsmanship Award
DBI ARCHITECTS, INC.
GWCAR - 2011 Architecture Firm of the Year
Fairfax County Exceptional Design Awards Program - 2007 Merit Award
WBJ - 2006 Best Real Estate Deal for Interior Design
IIDA - 2006 Bronze Design Award
TWINBROOK PLACE
NAIOP DC|MD - 2010 Award of Merit
UNIWEST GROUP
IIDA - 2010 Bronze Design Award
Fairfax County, Virginia Exceptional Design Awards Program2009 Honor Award
CASSIDY TURLEY’S VIRGINIA HEADQUARTERS
Fairfax County, Virginia Exceptional Design Awards Program2010 Honor Award
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2009 Award of Excellence
GRAPHIC DESIGN FIRM
NAIOP DC|MD - 2008 Award of Merit
LOCKHEED MARTIN CENTER FOR INNOVATION
HRACRE - 2007 First Honor Award
CARANA CORPORATION
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2006 Award of Merit
STUDLEY’S NORTHERN VIRGINIA OFFICE
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2005 Award of Merit
US ARMY INFORMATION DOMINANCE CENTER
NAIOP Northern Virginia - 2000 Special Recognition Award
IIDA - 2000 Gold Design Award
PROCESS
PROGRAMMING
TEST-FIT/
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
SPACE STANDARDS
THE PROCESS
It comes down to caring.
At DBI, we work to create award-winning projects with every design – regardless of the budget.
We work to ensure that the client receives the best value for their investment. We understand that our clients have two budgets: the dollars available for design and construction, and the time allotted to get the job done. DBI keeps a close eye on both.
With DBI, you can expect in-depth engagement from project initiation to completion. We’re here to help visualize your “organizational truth” in a physical space that will facilitate the productivity and employee engagement objectives you’ve established. We’re
here to help you more fully understand and interpret that truth in an environment that infuses brand and culture into every aspect of the workplace – immediately engaging staff, visitors, and clients and presenting the best representation of organizational values and goals.
The process that DBI follows is not dissimilar to the process many design firms might follow. It’s what we bring to the process that sets us apart.
Beginning with test-fitting, visioning, and programming, we work to understand the corporate culture. We work to develop standards, based on what we’ve learned, to provide a sense of consistency throughout the finished space.
FURNITURE
From the beginning, we’ll discuss branding, and the discussion will bear on and influence design development. More than a logo on a wall, more than a set of corporate colors, branding is that difficult-to-define set of qualities, characteristics, ideals, and other criteria that define an organization and what it stands for. DBI works with you to identify the details that tell your “brand story.” From these observations, a palette of colors, textures, finishes, and furniture will be developed to create a space that boldly states the organization’s identity.
We pride ourselves on delivering on-time, on-budget, and with “no surprises.” Using tools such as Revit allows us to provide clients with 3-D views from the very early stages of the project so you won’t have
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
PERMITTING & G.C. SELECTION
G.C. BID REVIEW
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
POST OCCUPANCY FEEDBACK
to try to interpret flat representations of your space. And, DBI will develop different scenarios to make the way to proceed more clear.
DBI engages in an inward-facing value engineering throughout the design process. We understand that opportunities for cost savings and schedule management are greatest in the early stages of the project and diminish as work progresses. As a result, emphasis is placed on controlling these aspects during the schematic design and design development phases of a project. At these stages, factors that may adversely affect the cost of a design can be identified and alternative action taken, if necessary.
Cost control and time management are fundamental and continually monitored. We include value-priced
alternatives as we develop the palette. We’re also careful to seek out solutions that will not be bogged down in supply-chain bottlenecks. We want you to “spend wisely” – in your budget and in your schedule.
As we develop construction documents, we engage the client in “page turn” sessions. These sessions are high-level but in sufficient depth and detail to be sure that the needs of the project are being met.
During this phase DBI gathers bids from general contractors, evaluates the proposals submitted, and provides recommendations on general contractor selection.
Construction administration is a critical phase of the process. DBI remains fully engaged at this stage,
ensuring that everything reflected in the construction documents is built to specifications. DBI remains highly involved throughout construction administration, advocating for our client and making sure their needs are met.
During move in and even post-occupancy, DBI provides customer service as needed, perfecting the design, and gathering feedback to make adjustments, as necessary. Our work does not end when the punch list is completed.
We’ll be there to assure design, functionality, branding, fit, and finish meet or exceed expectations. Because when all is said and done, it comes down to caring.
