Designing Volkswagen’s new 186,000 square-foot U.S. headquarters in Washington DC was an exciting opportunity to create a space that reflected the company’s evolving culture while attracting top-tier talent. The relocation from Detroit to DC called for a creative, forward-thinking design that would embody Volkswagen’s innovation and vision for the future.

The creative process was rooted in the idea of using the physical space to bring the brand to life. We wanted every aspect of the headquarters to visually communicate Volkswagen’s commitment to quality, design, and performance. The building itself became a canvas for the brand, with carefully curated design elements that highlighted the company’s values and products.

At the heart of the headquarters is the central atrium, an open, dynamic exhibition space that serves as both a visual and experiential platform for the Volkswagen brand. This space not only welcomes staff and visitors but also constantly reminds them of the excellence Volkswagen strives for. With every detail thoughtfully designed to foster a sense of pride and inspiration, the atrium serves as a focal point of the headquarters, reinforcing the company’s culture and its commitment to craftsmanship.

Through this design, the headquarters becomes more than just an office; it is a space that embodies Volkswagen’s identity and vision, inspiring collaboration, creativity, and a strong connection to the brand’s core values.

Project location: Washington, DC

Project size: 186,000 SF

Work previously completed by John Jessen as Principal Architect with Architect-of-Record VOA Associates (now Stantec).