Nova Chemicals Offices – Houston

Located in the heart of a main business, shopping, and entertainment district in Houston, Texas, Nova Chemicals wanted to couple the prime location with a modern, new office space that could help attract and retain new graduates entering the workforce. A well-established company in a traditional industry, Nova Chemicals also wanted to maintain a tailored and sophisticated look that was consistent with the tenure of the company and that of the industry. Nova Chemicals selected Abel Design Group to create the balance between a fun, fresh, and inviting space with modern appeal and the company s buttoned-up business sense. The office design includes the reception area, conferences rooms, open work areas, phone rooms, lounge, break room, and breakout areas. A neutral palette was used throughout the space with pops of color strategically employed in the wallcoverings and soft seating. The two open office areas converge into a centrally located break and lounge area. The lounge features an assortment of plush, soft seating while the break room has several reconfigurable break tables. Both spaces feature banquettes and colorful wall coverings and are strategically located along a window to offer a view of the city. A large island connects the breakroom and lounge as well as offers a large enough surface for company-wide catering services and office potlucks. The conference room features a banquette that runs along the length of the conference room for additional seating and color. Patterns inspired by chemical bonds were used throughout the design and are featured on the glass walls that separate breakroom from workspaces and conference rooms from work spaces. The project reflects a contemporary approach to workplace and public architecture that balances programmatic efficiency with a strong sense of place, using material honesty, daylight, and spatial flexibility to support the evolving needs of occupants. Its successful delivery demonstrates how thoughtful design can align commercial or institutional goals with the well-being of the people who use the space on a daily basis.