Murray’s Palace Casino in Washington, D.C., was a cultural landmark from the time it was built in the 1920s, and it was immortalized by the likes of Cab Calloway, Bessie Smith, and Duke Ellington. After a period of vacancy, the building was brought back to life when architecture firm Sorg Architects transformed it into its new home. “The challenges were integrating old and new,” says Nikki Sorg, director of business development, and daughter of founding principal Suman Sorg, FAIA. Suman started the firm in 1986, and it is one of the largest woman-owned architecture firms in the United States.
Preserving the building’s original structural elements was essential to the redesign plans while incorporating newer, modern features. Structural engineers ensured that the wooden trusses, left exposed, were in sound condition to support a habitable workspace. Sorg’s design also  maintained original windows. An open office plan for 45 employees includes communal workspaces, encouraging collaboration. Materials and finishes, such as modular carpet tiles, help absorb sound. Offices enclosed by glass, along a perimeter wall, provide privacy for key firm leaders.

Sorg Architects office. Architect Sorg Architects. Where Washington, D.C. What 6,000 total square feet on one-and-a-half floors. Cost/sf Withheld at client’s request.