The building blends seamlessly into this 19th century neighborhood, yet it leaves no doubt that its occupant is a cutting-edge creative dynamo firmly rooted in 21st century technology. The brick exterior is an explosion of obtuse angles and diverse elevations that create the look of several smaller buildings standing guard over the plaza. The building also welds together a blizzard of tiny historical detailing. There is rough brick on the side facing rough-bricked warehouses, for instance, and smooth brick on sides facing small stores built with smooth brick. A period-looking steel bridge links the building's two wings, and an iron fence surrounds the agency's pocket park.
More iron detailing dramatically carries into the front entrance canopy and atrium.
The main tower borrows heavily from local 19th century styles. Windows echo arches and moldings from nearby buildings. Inside, a different world awaits. We knew the building would be functional and practical, but we did not know how much fun it would be for the people who work here. One of the main issues was to create one environment where you could all interact under one roof,' explains lead architect Burrell Saunders of CMSS Architects in Virginia Beach.