FOX Architects was tasked with giving the Otsuka Pharmaceutical offices a cohesive and human-centric feel in Rockville, Maryland.

Otsuka is a Japanese-based pharmaceutical company committed to a holistic approach of health and wellness. Their inventive regional office and product development facility occupies two floors in Rockville, Maryland. The principles of harmony and balance are at the core of the organization’s mission.

Using this as inspiration, the design team established the architectural concept of “Coalesce: blending people, environment, and ideas.” By infusing Otsuka’s brand pillars of Jissho (challenging norms) and Sozosei (creativity) into the design, the space successfully encourages up-to-date thinking, while achieving a crisp, tailored ambiance. The promotion of innovation and well-being was also the impetus of the planning and design effort. Connecting elements, regarding both spatial adjacencies and technological resources, are strategically located. Two symmetrical wings of the building contain circulation pathways leading back to the centrally-located open work café – active corridors, which intentionally flow through the heart of the space to facilitate interaction and the cross-pollination of ideas. This dynamic open zone is placed along the window-line providing expansive sight lines. Natural light pours into the greater space, through layers of glazing, without sacrificing on necessary security for Otsuka’s sensitive work.

Otsuka’s thoughtful corporate symbolism provided insight into their culture and served as the design foundation. The ideas of breaking down stereotypes, changing perceptions, and encouraging people to think in different ways permeates throughout their philosophy. A company which creates unique wellness products, required a human-centric focus for their workplace. The space breathes innovation while also evoking a feeling of place, proving to be a successful tool in unlocking Otsuka’s unlimited potential.

Design: FOX Architects

Photography: Jeff Jackson, Brian Hunt

10 Images | expand for additional detail