INTERNATIONAL CARWASH ASSOCIATION - WHEATON HEADQUARTERS
Project
Located in the heart of Maybury-esque downtown Wheaton, the ICA headquarters was a build-out in an old bank building. The building began as traditional and serious as they come with ornate chandeliers, intricate millwork details and a huge board room with coordinating mahogany wall cladding and boardroom table for 20 - calling for a complete remodel. The first stage of the project was to re-think the layout of the office to facilitate a more communal and collaborative atmosphere as well as let in as much natural light as possible. Next, came updating the aesthetic to match the brand values and persona of ICA.
Inspiration
Our clients loved the Wheaton location but wanted a more youthful, fun and definitely less serious aesthetic. One of the design requests from the ICA CEO, was a “Googie” appeal, meaning design reminiscent of futurist architecture from the midcentury (common architecture during the rise of popularity of stand-alone car washes). Drawing from this inspiration, we brought in meaningful artwork, statement lighting and colorful accents that brought the ICA brand front and center.
Client
The International Carwash Association's headquarters was downtown Chicago prior to the pandemic. Looking for a new subourbon location that was centrally located for their team members, they found this property in Wheaton. Convenient to the train, restaurants and all the charm of Wheaton, ICA was looking forward to making this former bank their new corporate headquarters. Infusing the space with their brand personality, touches of their vision, value statements and daily inspiration, they now have a convenient and inspired work space.
For pictures of where this corporate space started and peeks at the transformation, check out our JOURNAL POST.