HOUSTON (September 30, 2020) – Intuitive Machines, a pioneer in space systems development, tapped Savills for tenant representation and project management services for its new headquarters. Intuitive Machines relocated from the first floor to a 22,300-square-foot half-floor on the sixth level of 3700 Bay Area Road in the Clear Lake area of Houston. The lease agreement commenced November 2019.

Tenant representation was provided by Executive Vice President Derrell Curry with project management services led by Associate Director David Finklea. Intuitive Machines is planning for a lunar mission with an anticipated launch date in October 2021. To prepare for the mission, the company required a larger floorplate to support an expanded staff and host a mission control center. With the countdown having already begun, the headquarters needed to be completed quickly. 

Finklea collaborated with architecture firm CDI Douglass Pye, Inc. to oversee design and construction. The previous floorplate contained favorable conditions the team was able to adapt for the new space, including reusing the existing lighting along with structural walls and partitions. Furniture for the office was provided by Workplace Solutions. To deliver a modern and planetary feel to the office, the countertops and other surfaces were outfitted in materials that evoked the neutral colors of the lunar landscape.

“I was proud to work on the build-out for Intuitive Machines during such an exciting time in its history,” said Finklea. “As Intuitive is a leader in the aerospace space field, we created an environment that is far from the industry standard and complements its innovative endeavors. The design is bright and contemporary, with a relaxing and airy feel that imitates the illusion of being in space.”  

Finklea tapped his extensive experience building emergency operations centers to collaborate in the creation of the unique mission control center. Located off the main entrance, the facility is configured in a circular design allowing team members to efficiently gather together without having to relocate from their desks. The center includes custom millwork and a large, curved monitor that accents the circular design and provides for maximum viewing potential. The center was also connected to the landlord’s generator to deliver emergency back-up power.

“Despite the current COVID-19 pandemic and delays caused as a result, we were able to complete the space within six months through close coordination with Intuitive Machines, CDI Douglass Pye, and the landlord,” said Finklea. “Everyone came together to ensure the new headquarters was delivered promptly for Intuitive Machines to prepare for its historic mission that further solidifies the future of privatized space travel.”  

“I couldn’t be more pleased with Derrell and David and the team they put together to create our new headquarters. Everyone demonstrated a high level of professionalism and attention to detail that produced a workplace that truly represents Intuitive Machines as an innovative lunar space systems company,” said Steve Altemus, President and CEO, Intuitive Machines. “Thank you to Savills, CDI Douglass Pye, and Byrd Construction for delivering an exceptional space that allows us to conduct our mission to the moon from our new control center right here in Houston!”