• Localisation: Virginia Beach, VA
• Client: ZIM Shipping

Sometimes a move down the street makes a big impact. This was the case for ZIM Integrated Shipping who relocated their North American Headquarters to Virginia Beach, VA a short fifteen-minute drive from their existing location in Norfolk, VA where they had been since 2001.

The significant transformation, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency while reflecting ZIM’s modern corporate identity, was a strategic move years in the making. Through every phase of the project, Avison Young Studio Project Services has been there

The decision to relocate their headquarters was not made lightly. Initially, extensive renovations to the existing building were considered. However, after a thorough evaluation led by our workplace strategy and design team, it became evident that moving would be more advantageous. In partnership with ZIM, our integrated design and delivery team looked at several properties in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The chosen site at 4425 ZIM Avenue was selected with factors such as talent availability, zip code analysis, budget constraints, and spatial suitability and most importantly alignment with the company’s long-term goals.

Situated on the banks of a picturesque canal, the building’s core and shell features a distinctive winged architectural design which at first presented a planning challenge for the over 400 employees who would move in. Avison Young Studio Project Services embraced the challenge as an opportunity to prioritize employee needs, and in turn, created a workspace that not only meets current demands but also sets a benchmark for future corporate environments.

 

True to our far-sighted strategy, our extensive planning and close collaboration with ZIM was crucial in ensuring a seamless transition from phase to phase. Avison Young undertook the role of project manager and owner's representative, which allowed us to expedite the project. Our delivery team, who had been integrated early in the project began demolition and framing ahead of final design details. Engaging key trades early, enabled construction to proceed while aesthetics was fine-tuned. This proactive approach helped speed up the project timeline and maintain budget adherence.

The design team creatively balanced existing conditions with contemporary aesthetics, resulting in a workspace that is both functional and visually striking. A grand entry with multi-story atrium creates an upscale atmosphere that can also serve as a flexible space to host town hall meetings. The faceted design language introduces a system of complementary angles that embrace the existing architecture while at once making it completely new. A unifying element is the angular ceiling feature that wraps the building core on each level. A neutral palette throughout the space allowed the brand’s colors to be featured and uniquely identify each floor.

Two egress stairways were completely redesigned at the request of the CEO who had a vision that employees would adopt a healthier lifestyle by encouraging their use over elevators with motivational branding. The renovation also included a comprehensive exterior refresh to set Zim apart from the dated neighboring buildings. This was achieved with updates to employee parking, the addition of security gates, as well as new signage, landscaping, and an outdoor seating area overlooking the water.

 

ZIM’s new headquarters includes a range of amenities designed to enhance the employee experience including a micro-market, state-of-the-art gym, patio seating, and a walking path overlooking a tranquil pond. There are also two new cafes servicing the four-floor headquarters. The first floor showcases a high-end, client-facing café with timeless design focused on connecting the indoor and outdoor environments. The third-floor café, in contrast, is designed to inject energy and creativity into the workspace, featuring vibrant color schemes and innovative millwork design. A special feature in this cafe is a vintage “Greetings from Virginia Beach” postcard that Avison Young’s environmental branding team created for the space. The top floor is an executive floor with a balcony overlooking the water, providing an elevated experience for leadership. The elegantly designed boardroom can accommodate over 30 people and has subtle design features referencing nautical themes appropriate to the business and local setting.

 

The construction phase presented unique challenges given the complex program requirements, condensed schedule, and fact that the building sat vacant for an extended period. With our team primarily located in New Jersey, we employed local contractors and conducted biweekly site visits to ensure quality and address any issues promptly. With our boots on the ground approach, we were able to accommodate design revisions during construction and still meet the client’s move-in date. The team’s commitment to safety and efficiency was evident in the completion of over 50,000 man-hours without incident.

This project highlights how strategic relocation and comprehensive redesign can drive operational efficiency and enhance corporate identity. Avison Young has created a workspace for ZIM that not only meets current demands but also sets a benchmark for future corporate environments. This case study underscores the importance of integrating strategic planning, innovative design, and effective construction management in achieving a successful organizational transition.

ZIM’s new headquarters is the prime example of what can be achieved with Studio Project services integrated design and delivery model. When teams are collaborating from the start we’re able to deliver dynamic workspaces that reflect a company's vision and create spaces for a more innovative, profitable, and employee-centric future.