The new headquarters for international advertising firm Droga5 occupy three floors plus a two-story penthouse in New York’s Financial District. To reflect the firm’s collaborative culture, the traditional hierarchical design where one’s place in the building is determined by status in the company was replaced with a ‘constellation’ model with ‘attractors.’
In contrast to many corporate office models where offices with views are preserved for the highest in rank, the space is designed so everyone shares in the daylight and views while private offices are placed against the core, encased in glass. Corners, with waterfront views, are used for common gathering spaces including kitchen and dining, lounges, and work tables. By dispersing the company’s most-visited people or departments across the three floors, vertical and lateral paths of physical communication are created.
At the core, a large stair invites people to common areas below and serves as an amphitheater for agency meetings and social events. A second stair, slipped into the core, embeds casual meeting areas in its residual spaces. The primary path connecting the floors is identified by the use of charred wood siding, providing wayfinding and a rich material quality to these areas.
Simple authentic materials offer a sober and modern contrast with the unobstructed bright natural light flooding in from the East River views. Chosen as a durable and cost effective option, the existing concrete floors were refurbished and polished, adding to the modern feel of the space. Offices on the north and south perimeter are made of a translucent polygal, allowing light to be shared with the common spaces.
Location: New York, NY | Completion Date: 2014 | Size: 91,442 SF | Client: Droga5
