The project began with a massive ambition: transforming an existing facility in Norco, CA, into a ~20,000 sq. ft. hub for government innovation. The challenge wasn’t just physical renovation; it was unification. NAVSEA, NavalX, and the Inland Empire Tech Bridge needed a home that could bridge military and civilian worlds—a space where rank could be set aside for the sake of collaboration. The facility needed to be highly modular to support everything from classroom instruction to expo-style events, all while navigating a complex group of stakeholders.
To give this mission a face, we looked to the sky. We developed a brand identity rooted in the “Maverick” name—symbolizing elite precision—and the “Pegasus” figure, representing aspiration and imagination. The goal was to create a modern, high-tech environment where ideas could take flight.
Unlike a standard build, this project required selling the future before the first wall was moved. Switch Studios led the comprehensive branding and spatial conceptualization to align the diverse stakeholder group.
While the physical transformation is still in progress, the impact of the design phase is already felt. The leadership teams from NAVY, NAVSEA, and RCCD have aligned around the new direction, validating the balance of military heritage and aspirational innovation. The “Maverick” identity has established a bold tone for the facility, promising a future-ready environment where research, prototyping, and education can thrive together.
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