Blair Graphics
Santa Monica, Calif.
Randall Stout Architects, Inc.

A graphics firm dares to be high-tech and fashionable

© Joshua White

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

To ensure future competitiveness, this prominent reprographics company undertook an expansion and renovation of its existing facility. The design integrated new machinery and technology into the existing facility, making it the first completely digital, full-service firm of their kind in Los Angeles.

An expanded lobby and improved front façade greatly enhance public perception of the company. A red-brick facade acts as a backdrop for a dramatic, folded-metal entry canopy and glass lobby, establishing a high-tech icon for the company. The illuminated canopy surfaces give the building a unique and welcoming presence during evening business hours.

The lobby includes a new waiting area, work area, and computer station for electronic correspondence and orders. The vaulted ceiling structure and new finishes give the lobby an open, modern feel. An improved staff and customer circulation zone encircles display walls that feature the company's products and services. Douglas fir-framed clear glass leads from the lobby to the digital customer proofing area.

The designers refurbished staff dining and break areas with new cabinetry, appliances, and finishes. New workstations, renovated bathrooms, and circulation areas have been brought up to current codes, and the upgraded fire and life safety scheme includes a new sprinkler fire suppression system. Galvanized metal is used on the entry canopy, within the customer lounge, and throughout the public corridor, along with cast-aluminum signage. Frameless glass on the front façade further emphasizes the company's high-tech image.

Formal name of Project:
Blair Graphics

Location:
Santa Monica, Calif.

Gross square footage:
8,131 sq ft – renovation
170 sq ft – new construction

Client:
Robert Blair, President of Blair Graphics

Architect:
Randall Stout Architects, Inc.
12964 Washington Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90066
310.827.6876 telephone
310.827.6879 facsimile