Elme Communities

Our Approach

With over 65 years of experience in creating accessible and affordable housing, Elme Communities embarked on a transformative journey. Embracing their rebrand, they relocated their headquarters from Washington, DC to a modern 10,300 square foot office in downtown Bethesda, MD. Partnering with sshape, Elme envisioned a workspace that reflected their commitment to housing, echoing the warmth and elegance of their communities. Upon entering the office, guests and staff are immediately greeted by Elme's prominent branding and the abundance of natural light that floods the space. Panoramic views of Bethesda reinforce their commitment to community. Promoting employee well-being and productivity, the space offers a range of options – touchdown spots for quick tasks, collaborative coworking areas, and dedicated gathering spaces for meetings and social interaction. Special attention was given to the lounge areas, emphasizing the notion of quiet comfort. The lounge features a series of warmly lit, recessed coworking nooks in the form of Elme’s new logo. Biophilic elements and natural wood tones throughout evoke a sense of home, accentuated by the gentle curves and undulations in the pantry and ceiling as well as an abundance of natural light. These organic elements contrast with the building's clean lines, creating a modern yet inviting atmosphere.