Empire Education Corporate Offices
Location: Pottsville, PA
With over 100 schools nationwide, Empire Education prides itself on having a fashion and industry "edge," therefore it was critical that the design and palette for the new space be current and creative, while drawing people and their ideas into the space. A sense of openness was established within the new 32,000 square foot, two-story structure through the use of exposed ceilings, glass walls and selection & positioning of finish materials. Floor finish patterns were extended from perimeter executive offices and conference rooms through glass partitions peeking into corridors inviting to those circulating through the space.
The company's core purpose and core values appear forthright (carved and back-lit in the wood stringer at the lobby) as well as subtly throughout the offices in the palette of warm tones, and selection and positioning of finish materials. The design impact is comfortable, yet active, and timeless, yet current; responding to the company's longevity and need to maintain an "edge" in the fashion industry, as an educator whose graduates gain self-sufficiency through their studies.
The design-build team included Watkins Architects, LTD. & Heim Construction Company along with Deb Stone Interiors. Heim Construction Company received the Award of Excellence for Commercial Construction by the Eastern Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors for this new addition to the existing corporate offices.
