The Q+ team transforms a long-abandoned Kress shell in downtown Columbia into the firm’s own studio, preserving the building’s historic character while creating an open, collaborative workplace. Set back from the sidewalk behind a simple storefront facade, the studio maintains the original volume and celebrates the building’s remaining historic elements as a foundation for a modern working environment.

The design preserves key interior features, including the original plaster ceiling, light fixtures, and terrazzo flooring, while keeping the full height and spatial quality of the original structure intact. Rather than dividing the space with unnecessary partitions, the layout supports collaboration and spontaneous interaction across the studio. Support spaces align along the east edge at the original floor joint, which marks the extent of the preserved terrazzo, while a loft level introduces team work areas and workstations that extend west toward a large team room and private office. Finishes remain intentionally restrained, with most wall surfaces rendered in white to highlight the contrast between original and new materials.