The thing that originally drew me to the field of interior design is actually logistics. I really love creative problem solving and working on spaces that not only need to have decor but also need to function. For this project with BRR Architects we got to explore defining this high-traffic space with flooring patterns and furnishings.
This atrium is an addition to the front facade of North Point Community Church. The church needed a larger common area at their entry-- a very accessible space, but out of the traffic of the main hallways. The architects crafted the Atrium to be a beautiful meeting place. The window wall is really stunning, and although very spacious, it feels like a bit of a haven from the flow of people in the halls. The church has thousands of attenders every Sunday, and the Atrium location provides the perfect anchor to the building-- a clear spot to meet up with a friend or get your questions answered at one of the Guest Services desks.
We created custom designed info booths for their Guest Services team to greet you at either end of the space. Each one is made of four pieces that form a circular information booth that can be approached on all sides. They also have the ability to position the pieces with some space between, making it easy for a volunteer to step out from behind the booth to assist a guest. Both the info booths and all of the lounge furniture are modular and portable, providing a lot of flexibility. This was very important for the staff as they use the Atrium for a myriad of events outside of their typical Sunday services.
We utilized flooring changes in the space to define different zones and add texture and pattern. The entrances have an LVT product with a steel look, helping further the subtle industrial elements from the architecture. An elm look LVT is used as a transition to the main carpeted path as well as a border to the seating area where we used a silver linen look LVT. All of these flooring materials also help bring out the colors found in the stone used throughout the space.
The wood added to the headers and walls really helps complete the Atrium. It adds warmth and variety to the neutral gray palette, and helps draw your eye up to the height of the space.
Furniture completes the space with timeless pieces that are easily moved and reconfigured for Sundays and events.