Gensler has moved into its new Phoenix office at The Esplanade on Camelback Road. Gensler’s teams redesigned a former retail space to create the 10,000-sq-ft, street-level offices. A brise-soleil shade element offers a more dynamic front-door experience and enhances the appeal of the indoor-outdoor environment. The design concept draws inspiration from textures and colors emblematic of the desert landscape. Natural materials include black weathered steel, raw concrete and plywood. Exposed shelving showcases work in progress, while permeable walls create a more open flow from private to public spaces.

The living lab workplace encourages collaboration and team engagement. Workspace amenities include focus rooms, a makerspace, a resource library and a virtual reality station. Lifestyle amenities include a café, patio, lockers and a wellness room.

“We are really proud of the research and design strategy that went into our new living lab workplace model,” said Dawn Hart, co-managing director, Gensler. “It will extend into our design process, making a positive impact on our work, clients and community.”

Construction is complete on new offices for the Professional Beauty Association in Scottsdale, Ariz. Ware Malcomb provided interior architecture and design services for the project, which was built by Wespac Construction. The Professional Beauty Association moved to the new location to accommodate the group’s growth.

The 17,000-sq-ft tenant improvement created private offices, huddle rooms, conference rooms, a gym and a break room. The design features a staircase that leads to a mezzanine that had been inaccessible, while also providing a striking visual focal point. Before demolition, the space had been used as a restaurant.

The open floor plan highlights exposed ceilings throughout the space, creating a modern, industrial feel. New skylights and exterior windows bring in more natural light, and a neutral color palette is accentuated with pops of color that reflect the association’s brand. Upgraded finishes include ceramic tile, luxury vinyl tile, carpet and quartz countertops.

“In addition to providing more space to accommodate current and future growth, the new offices of the Professional Beauty Association are a perfect reflection of the organization’s energy, brand and culture,” said Kevin Evernham, principal in Ware Malcomb’s Phoenix office.