A landmark in Washington, located two blocks from the White House, is the headquarters of United Unions. This prime location overlooking the National Mall is subject to approval by the Commission of Fine Arts as it is within the Shipsted-Luce governmental zone. After a careful needs analysis and several workshops with users, we proposed a solution that anchors the building in this environment by creating a new sense of entry, uses that complement the surroundings, and a display of art that speaks about the ownership. New entrances, common areas, a restaurant (a previously restricted use), improved circulation, superior sight lines as well as a green-roofed outdoor plaza all benefit the Union's employees, tenants and surrounding offices. From the perspective of Unions’ legacy, the design celebrates trade craftwork by elevating it to art. This is evident in the entry additions and the staircase inside the main lobby. The project was unanimously approved by the Commission of Fine-Arts.