The Vision
Every project presents an opportunity to shape how a space supports both daily function and meaningful interaction. For this Uptown Charlotte office designed for Howell Law, the goal was clear: create a clean, elevated environment that feels both professional and approachable for both their team and their clients.
The team at Howell Law was looking for a space that balanced sleek, modern aesthetics with comfort and functionality. Our design direction leaned into a mid-century modern influence, while ensuring each space supported productivity, collaboration, and a welcoming client experience.
Design Approach
While our scope of work mainly focused on selecting and procuring furniture and consulting on lighting fixtures, we approached the project with a comprehensive mindset by working with the existing drawings and finish selections to thoughtfully plan each space. Our design strategy was to focus on intentional space planning in the private offices, reception area, conference room, and breakroom as well as pulling furniture that aligned with the clean, streamlined aesthetic the Howell Law team was aiming for all while prioritizing comfort. We also consulted with lighting design in the conference room to enhance both functionality and atmosphere.
When moving into the furniture selection phase of design, we narrowed in on choosing mid-century modern style furniture that introduced warmth and timeless character to the space. We also used a refined color palette inspired by Howell Law’s branding including blue shades, warm wood tones, and stone + concrete finishes. Each area of the office needed to meet a different function: a welcoming reception area designed to create a strong first impression, a conference room that supports collaboration while offering a polished setting for client meetings, and comfortable, functional office and breakroom spaces that support the team’s day-to-day needs.
Client Feedback
We followed up with our client one year after occupancy to see how the space has been functioning for their team and clients. Here is some of the feedback we received:
Empira Creative: How satisfied are you with the space after one year of occupancy?
Howell Law: We LOVE it!
EC: What aspects of the design have been most successful?
HL: Honestly, everything. The color palette and design of the furniture pieces work seamlessly with the space so it appears that they were designed together by the same person. They weren't, but Ashley and Empira Creative did such an amazing job matching the direction and vibe the architect created for the space you'd truly believe they came from the same mind.
EC: Is there anything you would change if you could do the project again?
HL: Nope!
EC: Does the space continue to meet your team’s operational needs?
HL: Yes, the space functions well for our current team with room for expansion.
EC: How has the furniture performed over the past year?
HL: The furniture has held up really well. Everything still looks brand new even after a year of use. The knobs on the desks have stayed tight and the chairs are still comfortable.
EC: Have you noticed any positive business outcomes? (productivity, employee satisfaction, positive client/visitor feedback, stronger brand image, easier operations, etc.)
HL: Everyone loves the space! We've received so many compliments from clients and visitors, especially of our conference room table and chairs. They are real hits!
EC: Has the new office improved team collaboration?
HL: Yes. It's a nice cohesive space where we can all work together. We all eat lunch together most days at our breakroom table.
The Impact
The finished space reflects a balance of sophistication and approachability which supports both internal collaboration and client-facing interactions. By aligning the design with Howell Law’s brand identity and operational needs, the result is a workplace that feels intentional, elevated, and built for longevity. Our Empira Creative believes that even the most focused scopes, like furniture and space planning, can transform how a space looks, feels, and performs.
