Image courtesy HGA
Interdisciplinary design firm HGA has completed the renovation of the Salvation Army’s national headquarters in Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia.
The 3716-m2 (40,000-sf) headquarters, originally designed by HGA in the 1980s, needed an interior refresh and modern advancements to more effectively support the organization’s mission and efforts.
“Our goal with the project was to redesign and enhance the lobby to better tell the Salvation Army story to anyone entering the building by making it more of a museum experience,” said Ben Webne, HGA principal. “We also updated the workspace to better motivate and inspire the critical people who support the Salvation Army’s mission every day whether they work in finance, internet fundraising, advocacy, or other functions.”
The redesign created a community-centered home and museum-like experience with televisions and other interactive displays located around the headquarters telling the Salvation Army’s story. It also connected the two buildings making up the headquarters with a skybridge to enhance accessibility and flow. Additionally, doors, windows, elevators, staircases, and cubicles were modernized for security and functionality, and the onsite chapel was renovated for use by the community and staff.
“HGA applied the new design to help bring a community closer and to tell the Salvation Army’s powerful story,” said Lt. Colonel Cindy Foley, national treasurer at the Salvation Army. “Whether entering from the front door or parking lot, the building is now a place where employees and guests alike can learn about the Salvation Army and be inspired in all areas.”
