Inside IONIC – Bart McElfresh

Who is IONIC?

Based out of our Virginia Beach headquarters, Bart is a native of the Hampton Roads community and has developed a wealth of relationships since his start in the architectural industry in 1983. With an exhaustive portfolio of religious projects, Bart has experience with just about every style of church out there. This background has given him an efficiency in understanding the client’s needs and has created many trusted relationships. In his current role with Ionic DeZign Studios, he is additionally responsible for retail development and client relations.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on several fitness related projects in Hampton Roads, which include interior build-out of Blink Fitness Center and a new ground-up construction for Chesapeake Crossfit. There is a high-end, waterfront residential property along with Haynes Furniture/The Dump renovations located in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond and Chicago. We also recently were awarded The Webb Schools Vivian Webb Chapel Renovation Master Plan in Claremont, California. I’m really excited about that possibility.

What inspires you?

I’m always inspired by great design. When any design – whether it’s a building, a product, a park or plaza, sculpture or some other type of art or even something digital – feels fresh, elegant and timeless all at the same time, it’s great design.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I love to travel and thankfully get to do so quite a lot. I really enjoy experiencing other cities in a non-touristy way. In the past year, I’ve spent time in Dublin, London, Dallas, Atlanta, Seattle and also Amsterdam – which is probably my favorite city in the world. Next year – Buenos Aires!

Do you have a favorite quote or saying?

“In my experience, the simpler a design appears the more complicated it is to pull off!”

Two offices to serve you better. Headquarters in Hampton Roads. Second office in Central Virginia.
Find out more about IONIC 

 

IONIC Vision: Creating Places and Spaces that Enrich the Lives of Those Who Use Them.

“Inside IONIC” posts, designed to help you get to know the talented, innovative team at Ionic DeZign Studios.