IA Interior Architects create space for Aerojet Rocketdyne

Photo: Benny Chan

Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings Inc. chose to relocate to a new 14,000ft² location in El Segundo, California, to create a modern, welcoming space with an executive feel. The new office spans one floor, providing space for 27 staff, conference rooms, teaming rooms, executive offices, guest offices, a café, and break room.

The design team from IA Interior Architects worked with Aerojet Rocketdyne staff to create a modern and welcoming space reflective of the mature and conservative company culture. Natural and muted colors are used with wood finish accents, providing a blank canvas to highlight branded signage, company colors, and product exhibits such as an actual-size rocket motor with explanatory plaque in reception.

Incorporating Aerojet Rocketdyne’s brand colors throughout the workspace creates brand identity and recall for the company and its customers. Red and blue accents on chairs and in logos are consistent yet subtle, and custom wall graphics integrate brand messaging throughout the physical space. Floor-to-ceiling-height glass and continuous glass partitions thread through reception, work, and meeting spaces to create a transparent and collaborative atmosphere. Maximum natural light opens the space to a welcoming and community-based destination.

A long hallway leading to offices provides a gallery space to display representations of the company’s visions and business. The design team created a graphic wall concept for various topics, including a defense wall, space wall, values wall, brand wall, applied ingenuity wall, and video wall to exhibit Aerojet Rocketdyne. These private offices host the company executives and their assistants, the only staff at this location. Office furniture is custom designed to meet the client’s desired appearance and function. Amenity spaces include two main break rooms and an Aerospace Lounge.

Given the client’s interest in incorporating audio and visual components, electronic features are integrated in every space. Upon entry to the reception area, guests are greeted with a video wall displaying clips of Aerojet Rocketdyne’s company vision and products. Rooms throughout of the office maintain restricted access with card readers necessary for entry. The main conference room has six large monitors, each spanning 65" diagonally, connected to the main computer system to allow virtual brainstorming and training sessions. Conference rooms and board rooms also contain large customized tables that provide power and data access at every seat.