In 2009, GLP was commissioned to design a new 80,000 SF national headquarters for the YMCA of the USA. With a very strict budget and tight schedule, YMCA wanted to create not just a new office, but a new way of working. After interviewing 6 major design firms, conducting countless office visits and project tours, the YMCA selected GLP as its design partner due to our “genuine desire to create something tailored to the YMCA’s goals, the team’s passion and personal commitment, and because their built projects demonstrated a timeless quality to them…no gimmicks, just good design that stood the test of time and change criteria” said Jim Mellor, Chief Financial Officer at the time.

Ten years later, the YMCA’s real estate needs changed during the pandemic. GLP assisted in downsizing the headquarters by 1 floor. The scope included designing a new cafe + lounge space to accommodate the demand for modern “3rd space” work styles. As part of the phased renovation-in-place, the workspaces were renewed with bold, new carpet and fresh paint. The integration of the organization’s vivid graphics program through environmental graphics projects the YMCA’s brand and values in a visually striking, design savvy, and cost-effective way. Historical items from the YMCA’s archives adorn the office and represent the Y’s mission, activities around the world, and the people that they serve, from staff to visitors.

Despite its budget-conscious nature, the finished environment is clean, modern, and sophisticated.