HNTB in Atlanta
Atlanta, GA
Engineering identity through environment – a bold new space that captures HNTB’s people, purpose, and the vibrant energy of Atlanta.
When HNTB’s Atlanta office set out to renovate their multi-floor space, they wanted more than a fresh look – they wanted an environment that embodied the energy of the city and the character of their brand.
HNTB’s relationship with Takeform began through one of our trusted dealer partners, who recognized an opportunity to enhance the client’s signage and branding experience. After an initial introduction and a few collaborative discussions, HNTB quickly recognized how Takeform’s integrated approach – combining creativity, consistency, and collaboration – could elevate their workplace environment.
What began with a few smaller projects quickly grew into a partnership, culminating in the Atlanta office – the largest space we’ve completed together to date. Takeform’s scope covered three full floors and a portion of the main level, bringing cohesive brand expression throughout the workplace.
LOCATION:
Atlanta, GA
OTHER CONTRIBUTORS:
DLR Group
PRODUCTS:
The Design Vision
Working alongside DLR Group, the Takeform team developed a signage and experiential graphics program that was both locally inspired and deeply branded. The design celebrates Atlanta’s identity – from its skyline to its infrastructure – while reflecting HNTB’s purpose as an engineering and architecture leader shaping movement and mobility across the country.
The design intent for HNTB's Atlanta office was to highlight the firm’s vast portfolio of work – both locally and nationally – while grounding the environment in Atlanta's culture. In addition to project and industry imagery, the team incorporated graphics that celebrate the city’s spirit, making the space feel connected to the employees' daily lives.
To match HNTB’s expansive scale, the Takeform design team used bold visual gestures, including large wallcoverings that express the magnitude of the firm’s work. Large-format graphic panels, printed with project imagery and paired with understated title cards, create a visual rhythm that both celebrates HNTB’s contributions and acknowledges the teams behind each achievement.
Given that the office was a full renovation, the design team worked carefully to ensure that the graphics felt intentional and architectural. It needed to blend seamlessly with the new space rather than appearing as an afterthought.
Crafting the Experience
While the creative process was central, execution was just as critical. Takeform’s project management, design, engineering, and field services teams worked with precision to ensure every detail – including installations on specialty wall surfaces – met the client’s aesthetic and technical expectations. The installation, completed before occupancy, showcased the team’s commitment and collaboration, with extended hours and coordinated effort ensuring the space was ready for employees’ first day.
During installation, the team encountered a few surprises. Some of the wall conditions had changed since the original renderings. On-site collaboration between the installers and Takeform’s designer made it possible to quickly re-survey and redraw elevations, ensuring every element aligned perfectly.
Client feedback also played a key role in refining the final direction. Each HNTB office houses multiple departments, so the team worked closely with stakeholders to match graphic themes to their corresponding departments – aviation, highway infrastructure, and more. This harmony ensured that every area told a relevant and resonant story.
Among the designer’s favorite details are the black-and-white elevator graphics. These partially abstract images reveal themselves gradually: what first appears as a striking art piece unfolds into a recognizable view, accented by a subtle floor number integrated within the design.
“I like when we get to partially abstract images. At first they both look like beautiful art pieces, but then as you look, you begin to understand the full image.” – Mol Morse, Takeform Senior Experiential Graphics Designer
A Celebration of Scale
One of the boldest and most rewarding design risks came in the form of the large-scale Exude SEG frames. Positioned near the elevator bays, each floor features a unique Atlanta skyline treatment that subtly incorporates HNTB’s brand elements. These installations greet visitors with a sense of place and pride, embodying HNTB’s culture of innovation and connection to the communities they serve.
A Partnership Shaped by Vision and Trust
More than a successful installation, this project showcases what’s possible when shared vision meets thoughtful design. The Atlanta workplace now stands as a vibrant expression of HNTB’s brand – and a foundation for future environments that inspire their teams across the country.
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