A Step Ahead Foundation
A Step Ahead Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education surrounding healthy and economically stable family planning. The organization had been operating out of a space that did not lend itself to collaboration and undermined the professional image that the organization wanted to convey. The group decided to relocate into a massive, newly renovated distribution warehouse, Crosstown Concourse.
A large part of the client’s workflow involves marketing to women in need and possible cooperative organizations. The public face of the project offers a significant opportunity to provide information and resources to passers-by in a non-invasive way. The concept of a ‘Little Free Library’ inspired a boldly-colored millwork wall containing openings for views, literature, announcements, and advertising.
To create a feeling of openness, and to work within a modest budget, the original concrete ceilings were left exposed. A series of bulkheads with dark-blue interiors define work zones. These zones participate in a strategy of progressively eroding private offices along the corridor toward the day-lit exterior face of the building. Desired sightlines were identified to perforate the forms and create functional connections. The simple detailing and palette of white and dark-blue paint, maple millwork, and yellow accents participate in promoting the organization’s growth, outreach, and brand.
