Defense Security Cooperation Agency Change Management

Defense Change-Up

CallisonRTKL’s workplace strategy team proved that reducing square footage can still provide an organization with everything it needs. At the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the useable area needed to be reduced from 84,000 SF in two buildings down to 70,000 SF over three floors in one building, while simultaneously increasing the number of staff from 275 to 344. The team used research-based methods and creative solutions to maintain an excellent working environment. The design opened up work space by reducing panel heights and increasing the ratio of workstations to offices. Activity-based working features, such as huddle rooms, focus rooms, and social gathering areas, were added to complement smaller work spaces.

Prior to the redesign, all the space was a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF). This prevented the use of mobile phones and Wi-Fi, limiting mobility for employees. In the new space, the team planned SCIF space only for the top floor, giving staff a greater ability to move around and collaborate. To increase the overall density, all new work space standards were developed to maintain the high level of functionality designed into the office.

Location Washington, DC Services , , , Markets