A study on how SnapCab transformed 20 elevator interiors for a Class A building in Washington, D.C. using Gorilla Glass, Rift Cut White Oak, and precision engineering.
Customer Project
Elevating a Class A Landmark: 20-Cab Interior Transformation
March 30, 2026
Client
Confidential International Corporation
For a premier Class A office building in the heart of the nation’s capital, our custom elevator interior solutions provided a sophisticated gateway to a modern workspace. By blending high-end materials like Rift Cut White Oak Veneer and Gorilla Glass, we transformed twenty elevator cabs into seamless extensions of the building’s contemporary design.
Background
A Vision for 20 Elevator Interiors to Match a Modern Landmark
When a prominent international corporation in Washington, D.C. prepared their building for a major high-profile event, they knew their vertical transportation needed to match the prestige of their newly renovated Class A office space. They approached SnapCab with a significant task: design, engineer, and deliver custom interiors for twenty elevator cabs that would perfectly mirror the building’s updated aesthetic.
Challenge
Bridging the Gap Between a Blank Canvas and Architectural Excellence
Large projects like these often come with a pre-defined architectural plan. Instead, the client looked to our team to serve as the lead designers. Without initial design goals the challenge was twofold: Develop a luxury aesthetic from scratch that would satisfy a high-end corporate identity. In addition, manage the logistical and engineering complexities of twenty individual cabs, each requiring a perfect fit and finish.
The Solution
From Concept to Craftsmanship
Leveraging over 40 years of industry experience, our team provided a curated portfolio of possibilities. We did this through a collaborative process of renderings and critiques, we distilled a wide range of ideas into a singular, focused vision.
As a result, the final design showcased a delightful combination of premium materials and sophisticated finishes.
Real Wood Veneer with Precision Tone-Matching
To ensure a seamless flow from the lobby to the cab, we utilized Rift Cut White Oak Veneer. Our craftsmen employed a meticulous multiple-round-toning method—staining and sealing in layers—to achieve an exact match with the building’s interior wood accents.
Gorilla Glass & Onyx Accents
In addition to the veneer, the centerpieces of the panel design featured elegant grey and white imagery mounted behind Gorilla Glass using optically clear adhesives. This was bordered by Rimex T22 metal in Onyx Black, providing a rich, professional contrast that also matched the high durability of the Gorilla Glass.
Satin Bronze Reveal Package
To provide contrast, our client opted for a deluxe satin bronze metal for the reveals, handrails and bumpers, adding a layer of warmth and elegance to the cab’s perimeter.
Integrated LED Lighting
Finally, to enhance the sense of space and modern flair, perimeter LED lighting was installed to complement the standard downlighting.
The Impact
Going Above and Beyond: Quality Seen and Unseen
To ensure this high-profile project was executed flawlessly, we moved beyond standard manufacturing to provide white-glove onsite services. In fact, our team members travelled to the client’s building to perform cab surveys for each of the twenty elevators.
The “Real-Life” Interior Model
Recognizing the difficulty of choosing designs from a screen, we transformed one of the twenty elevators into a physical showroom. We installed a custom interior where each wall featured a different design option. This allowed the client to physically step into the space and experience the materials in situ before final production.
Engineering for the Elevator Mechanic
True craftsmanship is often hidden. While the design utilized materials of varying thicknesses, our engineers refused to take the easy route of using multiple substrates. Instead, they utilized custom milling and precision spacers to create a single, perfectly flush panel. This “flush-mount” engineering not only looks superior but also simplifies the installation process for mechanics on-site.
Bespoke On-Site Adjustments
When we discovered that the existing Customer Operating Panels (COP) didn’t perfectly overlap our reveals, we engineered a solution, utilizing our provided MDF wall packs, to bring the entire wall out further. This eliminated visual inconsistencies and ensured a tight, “built-in” feel while maintaining full mechanical access for maintenance.
Why SnapCab?
A Collaboration Built on Expertise
From traveling to D.C. to hand-measure every inch of all twenty cabs to overseeing the first installations, our commitment to the project went far-beyond the factory floor. We provided a turnkey solution that balanced the high-end demands of a Class A building with the rigorous safety standards of ASME A17.1 and ASTM E84 Class A fire-ratings. The result is a stunning, durable interior that reflects the excellence of the corporation it serves.
Conclusion
This project highlights the power of a true design-build collaboration. By taking a “blank canvas” and applying four decades of engineering expertise, we helped this Washington, D.C. landmark achieve a cohesive, luxury environment from the ground floor to the top floor. Whether it’s through physical prototyping or precision wood-tone matching, we remain dedicated to elevating the standard of elevator interior design.
If you have any questions about our custom elevator interior systems, please reach out to start your consultation.
Features
Corning© Gorilla© Glass
Rift Cut White Oak Veneer
Anodized Bronze Reveal Package
Rimex T22 Accents
Integrated LED Lighting
Finishes
