Financial Services Corporate Office
Interior Renovation
Chelsea
In Progress
A Tailored Office That Merges History And Modernity
OVERVIEW
This financial trading firm had specific programming needs for their new 26,000-square-foot office space, located in two landmarked, cast-iron loft buildings in Chelsea.
They wanted a welcoming feel that moved away from the typical austere corporate environment. With employees spending long hours in the office, the space needed to address a wide range of personalities and work styles. Our team made gathering spaces, like a versatile cafeteria that transforms into an elegant dining area for impromptu dinners, central to the design. We focused on fostering creativity and comfort while incorporating a sense of whimsy, reflecting the firm’s culture and setting it apart from more opulent competitors.
APPROACH
Our design strategy balanced the rich historical character of the loft buildings with the firm’s need for a functional, modern workspace.
The layout features an open office environment that encourages collaboration between traders and technologists, supported by custom-built trading desks and carefully integrated technology. Private phone booths, executive offices, and acoustically treated areas were subtly customized for different departments, addressing each team’s specific needs while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. We focused on creating spaces where employees could work and gather, with elements like a chef’s kitchen and barista bar providing a comfortable yet sophisticated atmosphere. The blend of high-end finishes—such as warm wood paneling and mirror-backed walls—adds refinement without overwhelming the space.
IMPACT
The reimagined office space successfully merges modern functionality with a deep respect for the historic loft buildings.
The space supports the firm’s trading operations with tailored solutions and enhances employee well-being through thoughtfully designed communal areas and workspaces. With flexible environments for focused work and social interaction, the office fosters creativity and collaboration in line with the firm’s culture. Our design cultivates a comfortable, understated space that avoids the excess often seen in corporate environments, which celebrates the client’s unique identity while providing a workspace as practical as it is inviting.
