The Challenge:
NN, Inc., a global diversified industrial business, recently relocated its headquarters from Johnson City, TN, to a new 75,000-square-foot creative office space in Charlotte, NC. With collaboration playing an important role in the function of the company’s team, NN, Inc. wanted to create an engaging workplace environment with the aesthetics and flexibility required by the modern workforce.
Based on an extensive workplace analysis and envisioning process with the client, IA Interior Architects achieved this vision with a mid-century modern design that provided a variety of collaborative meeting spaces. This included an executive lounge with high-end finishes, architectural detailing, a putting green, and a 620 square-foot ceiling that is an immediate show stopper upon entry.
“To create a visual focus to the exposed structure in the executive lounge space, we modelled an upscale linear ceiling design in virtual reality, and the client approved the concept,” says IA associate designer Lacey Johnson. “We then sent the virtual reality video, image renderings, and plan to Armstrong Ceilings and requested their support in creating and building the unique ceiling.”
The Solution:
The design team at the You Inspire Solutions Center at Armstrong Ceilings quickly responded to the request with three custom ceiling options for creating and capturing the design intent in a new and unique way. The selected creative solution utilized METALWORKS Blades – Classics panels with an EFFECTS Walnut Wood Looks finish. These custom-made metal panels were precisely cut by Armstrong Ceiling Solutions to make triangular modules in the geometric ceiling grid.
The specialty ceiling was installed by Acousti Engineering Company of Florida at a height of 9 feet 6 inches above the floor. The 2-inch wide by 6-inch high crisscross vertical panels were installed from the inside of the space working outward. “This unique ceiling design had an unusual layout, but all the pre-engineered components went together very smoothly within two weeks due to the kit of parts, detailed record set, and excellent shop drawings provided by Armstrong Ceilings,” says Acousti lead installer Randall Stockley.
The project required a team of visionaries to complete on-time and under budget. According to the architect, the custom ceiling created by the You Inspire Solutions Center was a beautiful solution to achieve a memorable visual in the space. “The wood-look feature ceiling in our executive lounge really stands out, and we couldn’t be happier with how everything came together,” says NN, Inc. special projects manager Karl Houdeschell.
Project: NN, Inc. Executive Lounge
Location: Charlotte, NC
Architect: IA Interior Architects
Products: METALWORKS Blades – Classics Custom Ceiling System