Completion Date:     2/15/2014

Square Footage:      11000

Building Use:           Office Building

Location:                 Newport Beach, CA

Project Description:

Faced with a growing Newport Beach office and a need to expand, this architecture firm’s chosen lease space provided an incredible opportunity for both the firm and the building’s owner to show a new way to work and attract new tenants while encouraging them to look at office spaces differently.

With the unique opportunity for architects to influence their own work environment, the design process for began as a “wish list” of design ideas and architectural features, rooted in a desire for an open, collaborative and creative space that would allow staff to work differently. Working closely with the local staff, the design team took these ideas and developed a unique, fun office featuring a wine bar, an open kitchen and flexible team spaces that can also serve as hotel stations, layering in graphic features to showcase the firm’s brand. The overall vision was for a “case study” space to showcase products, technology and different ways to work for both the firm’s clients and other building tenants.

With this concept in mind, the design firm transformed this High Rise Class A space into a flexible, collaborative and high energy work environment. The spaces evolve into breakout spaces, a low-walled cubicle open office environment and a large conference room with a bi-panel folding door that can open up for a large presentation, event or gallery space. An open kitchen for gathering and working along with a wine bar for hosting industry events or entertaining clients. The spaces are quickly adaptable for different uses and easily change to meet project team and client needs.

Finishes, materials and lighting were selected to showcase as much product as possible, allowing clients to visit the office to see and touch things in real time. The creativity does not stop at the design; the firm invited all staff to provide art for the walls, responding to the question: “What inspires your creativity?” This allows for a more personalized space while creating a unique energy.

Latest technology was a top priority in order to provide for future adaptability and allow Newport Beach to easily work in real-time with the firm’s four other offices. Collaborative touch screen white boards can be shared in real-time with other offices, while high definition video conferencing in multiple spaces and wireless connectivity throughout allow for ease in communication and efficiency. Flat panel TV screens throughout the lobby and community spaces show photos and videos of the firm’s best work, capturing the culture, identity and passion for design.

The office is registered with the certification goal of LEED Certified, but is anticipated to receive LEED Silver certification. The finished design incorporates sustainable features, including day lighting, eco-conscious bamboo flooring, re-use of furniture, low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and a high level of recycled content in many of the specified materials.

The firm’s new Newport Beach office not only showcases design, but also supports growth, flexibility and collaboration, encouraging clients and prospective tenants to imagine the possibilities when envisioning their own offices.

C.O.T.E. | Committee on the Environment

Download