by Liz Daube
Staff Writer
In three years, Legal Art Works has grown from a one-computer, one-man show to a small staff with equipment to serve more than 300 attorneys, and the Downtown company will soon make room for more.
As soon as renovations are complete, Legal Art Works will move into a space that’s been vacant at 45 W. Bay St. for the last two decades. The 3,000 square-foot offices will more than triple the workspace available at the current Laura Street location, according to Jeff Davis, founder and president of the Jacksonville graphics company.
“It’s largely for people who aren’t even here yet, but it’s building for the future,” he said. “In 2007, we’re planning to go full-on nationwide. I’m hoping that before the lease is up, every room is filled.”
Legal Art Works creates visual exhibits for use in trials, specializing in images that personal injury attorneys use to show how a medical problem affects a client. The company isn’t the first of its kind, but it is the only legal-medical graphics firm in Jacksonville.
Davis said expanding Legal Art Works’ space and staff makes sense for a company that’s doubled its sales every year. He plans to hire an account executive and another medical illustrator soon, bringing his staff total to eight.
The renovations to the Bay Street space will be significant, as well. Work is currently underway to remove walls and awnings, add earthy-colored paint and give the long-abandoned space “a modern, urban feel.”
Davis said the building, which currently houses some offices and the Daniel James Salon, will get an overall makeover from its owners. The front facade will likely see an update, and the inside courtyard area may turn toward a Tuscan theme.
Some people haven’t seen the building’s potential, Davis said. He’s excited about creating a unique space and “taking the risks that go with thinking big.”
Legal Art Works has already gained a reputation for impromptu sidewalk barbecues and what Davis calls a “a fun, relaxed environment.” He’s still toying with different ideas for the new offices.
“It’s funny how the grilling was a huge part of choosing the new building,” said Davis, who has considered making a barbecue room complete with a printed backyard landscape wall mural and pieces of white picket fences. “It will have a hangout room with an X-Box and a TV ... They (employees) need to stay creative,” he said. “I want it to be a place they’re excited about coming to – and their final product will be that much better.”
Davis expects renovations to be complete in about two months.