M id A tlantic Real Estate Journal — Best of 2025 — March 2026 — 15B The BEST INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE of 2025 DMR Architects Suburban Propane Lobby & Board Room Whippany, NJ DIGroup Architecture Mercer County Technical School District Culinary Kitchen Jarmel Kizel Architects and Engineers Iron 65 Newark, NJ
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Size: 3,500 SF Suburban Propane contracted DMR for interior renovations to its Whippany, NJ headquarters. In the lobby, DMR replaced dated flooring with oversized tile, and added modernized seating, signage and display cases for artifacts. Company branding now saturates the space. A larger and better situated concierge and two new security vestibules offer improved wayfinding, and a safer and more welcoming entrance to employees and visitors. On the second floor, DMR also renovated the board room, transforming the existing room into an inspiring work and gathering space equipped with a large conference table, entry credenza, benching system, display cases and modern finishes and furniture. Suburban Propane sought to upgrade their lobby and board room to be more reflective of their branding and culture, driven by an exciting future thanks to major partnerships with NASCAR and speedways across the country. The project is a favorite because while modest in terms of overall scope, its impact is quite powerful and most importantly, the project was very meaningful to the client.
Size: 2,850 SF DIG transformed an underutilized 2,850 s/f baking room into a state-of-the-art Culinary Lab, reimagining the Mercer County Technical School District’s facilities into a 21st-century, industry-aligned learning environment. The project modernized instructional kitchens, prep areas and demonstration spaces to mirror professional culinary facilities, providing students with the real-world, hands- on experience necessary for the modern workforce. By prioritizing durable finishes, optimized workflow plan - ning and commercial-grade equipment integration, the design ensures a safe and efficient high-volume output while maintaining an inspiring aesthetic. Enhanced lighting and a strategic layout support both instructional flexibility and student collaboration, reinforcing the district’s commitment to sophisticated workforce development. The result is a dynamic, “future- proof” space that elevates the overall educational experience while preparing students to transition seamlessly from the classroom to careers in hospitality and the culinary arts.
Size: 12 Stories / 135 Units Iron 65 is a high-rise multifamily residential development in downtown Newark, with a strong emphasis on thought- fully designed interior architecture that enhances the resident experience. The project includes the interior planning and design of residential units, shared amenity spaces, and circulation areas, balancing functionality with a contemporary aesthetic. Interior layouts were carefully coordinated to maximize efficiency, comfort, and visual interest while supporting the building’s overall architectural vision. Material selection, spatial organization, and detailing were used to create cohesive, inviting interiors that elevate everyday living and respond to the scale and energy of an urban high-rise environment. This project stood out due to the opportunity to shape the interior identity of a high-rise residential building. Designing interiors at this scale required careful coordination and a strong design narrative, making it a rewarding exploration of how interior architecture can define the character of a multifamily development.
5X Honoree MAREJ Best of ‘25
Celebrating 20 years of
shaping workplace culture,
community impact, and design
excellence across New Jersey,
Greater Philadelphia, and
the Lehigh Valley
BEST OF INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE Mercer County Technical Schools Culinary Arts Academy Lab
NJ NY PA 732.249.6242 digrouparchitecture.com
ARCHITECTURE · INTERIOR DESIGN · GRAPHIC DESIGN
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