Edelman

A Welcoming Design Helps Employees Embrace Change as They Transition from Private Offices to an Open Plan

The move to a new tower space represented a big change for Edelman. A transition of office culture occurred, as the client forwent private offices in favour of an open plan that promotes a more democratic, communicative and collaborative experience. The company asked our team for a design that would motivate employees to welcome the change.

We wanted staff and visitors to step off the elevator and feel immediately welcomed. Our design borrows inspiration from the hospitality industry, modelling the reception area after a boutique hotel lobby. A sleek back-painted glass desk topped in stately marble sits opposite an elegant fireplace surrounded in glossy grey porcelain tile. The comfortable soft seating includes vintage pieces refreshed with daring purple upholstery. White bookcases display a playful array of books and curiosities – hand-picked by our team – that speaks to the creativity of Edelman’s work.

Our team added character and colour to the work areas and glass-walled meeting rooms using large-scale murals. The murals layer one primary colour over photographs of the city, lending the interior dimension and perspective. With much of their imagery depicting parks and other natural scenery, they also create a link to nature.

Employees can easily step outside to enjoy a breath of fresh air, thanks to a colourful patio that we built on an underused rooftop. Our team sheltered the space from the wind with a screen covered in a hard-wearing plastic textile from Finland. The material’s perforated pattern of lime green leaves shivers in the breeze, mimicking the sound of a tree on a windy day. A variety of seating – including a sofa upholstered in bold outdoor fabrics – beckons to staff who are lucky enough to enjoy a patio view.