Modern Venues: Part 1 -- Industrial Style Venues

Lately, I've had clients who need help looking for venues wanting something industrial and modern. I think if we were in New York, it would be easy to find a loft that would fit the bill. In this area though, the choices are slim. The Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria is a good choice, and although the Ronald Regan Building is modern, it is not quite industrial. So I went on a search for such a venue and found two that are close.

#1 - Metropolitan Center for the Visual Arts "VisArts" in Rockville, MD
The spaces available for rent for private events are located on the 2nd floor. There is the Event Room (that could seat up to 170 with floor-to-ceiling windows) and the art gallery. Along with the hallway, the space has an industrial, loft-like feel. Another selling point is a partially covered rooftop terrace which could accommodate 150 for reception. The rental includes a select number of tables and chairs.

Rooftop Terrace


Left: Hallway between Gallery & Event room which is flanked by artist studios (like at the Torpedo Factory) where you can have cocktail hour. Right: the Gallery with an ongoing exhibit.


The Event Room with a wood paneled acoustic ceiling.

#2 Signature Theatre Arlington (Shirlington)
The new home of Signature Theatre rents many of its spaces for private events, including the expansive Mead Lobby (which can seat up to 250) and its black box theatres.

Mead Lobby with its floor-to-ceiling windows and partially concrete floor.


Left: The modern lounge furniture. Right: The Ali Bar.

Stay tuned! We are going to keep searching. Other locations we will be reviewing: Strathmore Music Center & Harman Center for the Arts (just realizing there are lot of arts related spaces).