When DAV asked us to be a part of the team designing their new National Headquarters in Erlanger, Kentucky, we knew the most important thing was for veterans to come first in all aspects of the design. We needed to create a system that would help DAV serve the million+ veterans they assist each year in a way that was efficient, accessible, and cost-effective.

We designed, produced, and installed all interior and exterior branding elements for the new DAV National Headquarters in Erlanger, Kentucky. Our goal was to design an integrated DAV brand experience that embodies the DAV story. We wanted all of our features to be accessible to veterans, staff, and stakeholders of all ability levels.

Starting with the prominent view from the expressway, the DAV experience begins with the building itself. Simple, clean lines frame the DAV logo on the structure, and iconic exterior wayfinding marks the entrances. The story continues to unfold as audiences move through the building, with each interaction building upon the previous one. We deliver the DAV brand experience in a way that is memorable and easy to repeat.

The whole experience hinges on the iconic DAV logo, which is brought to life at the reception desk. Using the geometry from the logo, we designed a system that is flexible and adaptable. The system is designed to be as multifaceted as DAV - from the reception desk to the museum to the 11’ interactive tower and digital elements, the system holds up. By making use of DAV’s gun-metal grey and night vision green in new ways, we were able to keep our system grounded in the history of DAV while making the design modern and fresh.

Beyond trumpeting DAV’s decorated legacy, it was crucial that our design strategy inform visitors and veterans of all ability levels. Each element, from the military museum to the interactive digital features, was designed with this in mind. Accessibility menus and content are easily found on each feature, ensuring that DAV can continue to serve everyone.

The result is a National Headquarters that serves more than just their staff. It allows DAV to better serve the nationwide community of veterans in need of assistance. The design strategy simultaneously honors DAV’s long legacy while also supporting their efforts for future growth and initiatives. It reinforces the importance of their mission at every turn–now and for generations to come.

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