Historic Union Building

Built in 1896 in the Georgian Revival style, the Union Building called for a thoughtful approach to updating its foyer, landing, and stairwell. The design challenge was to introduce a modern sensibility while honoring the building’s historic integrity and architectural significance. With its beautifully detailed staircase, the space felt more akin to a Victorian residence than a traditional office building, guiding the decision to treat the entry as a residential-inspired interior with a contemporary edge.

A layered mix of styles brings warmth and balance to the space. A vibrant, multi-colored rug with a mid-century pattern anchors the entry, selected in a commercial-grade quality to withstand heavy foot traffic while concealing wear. Textured wallpaper and modern lighting with clean, hexagonal lines add contrast, while a late 19th-century Italianate Victorian console offers a graceful nod to the building’s origins. The resulting palette—warm neutrals, dark wood accents, and antique brass lighting—creates a welcoming, elegant entry that bridges past and present.