A renovated space in a 1950’s-era bus station will transport a venture capital company that backs innovative technology start-ups into the future.

Located in New Haven, this 9,000-square-foot headquarters for Connecticut Innovations encompasses offices, meeting rooms, collaborative areas and open work areas. Exposed structure, HVAC, brickwork, metal panel ornamentation, and concrete floor staining are contextual with original architecture and provide an edgy industrial aesthetic.

Designers maximized existing features, which included high ceilings, skylights in their original positions, and a long south glazed wall, bathing the interior in light. Use of glass throughout the headquarters and along a central corridor, or “main street,” defines program spaces and allows glimpses of activity. A particular highlight is a large conference room adjacent to the café-lounge. The boardroom’s large sliding glass wall opens to unite the spaces to allow for larger meetings or events.

Small offices along the perimeter of the interior maintain an open environment, while allowing private work spaces. Creation of glass and roofed “boxes” within the larger envelope also contribute to the open, light-filled environment, giving employees additional collaborative and huddle spaces that allow for distancing and easy cleaning.

An ever-changing monitor, mounted on a floor-to-ceiling engraved feature wall at the main entrance, allows Connecticut Innovations to showcase its own brand and promote tech partners. Interior furnishings complement Connecticut Innovations’ brand colors of blue and orange.