New York, NY
The Evolution of Design
When a longstanding client came to Spectorgroup to refresh their office during the pandemic, the transformation had to be targeted yet impactful. Spectorgroup’s design approach focused on materiality and details. The result was a complete transformation of the office from its original, minimalistic aesthetic to a rich environment showcasing the firm’s evolution and reputation.
Layering Artwork and Materiality
The new reception provides guests and employees with a renewed sense of arrival. A fluted glass wall encircles the reception area and opens visitors to the exterior view while still providing privacy for the adjacent conference rooms. The reception desk is anchored against a fluted marble wall, rotated from its original position, welcoming visitors and staff. Art has historically been an essential part of the office culture and was a significant driver in the development of the design dialogue. Richly toned paneled walls bookend the lobby, contrasting with the white stone and fluted glass, a play on materials that makes the lobby feel airy and warm. A sculptural light fixture by Apparatus Studio anchors the ceiling plane above the reception desk. The bronze arms of the fixture feature delicate porcelain shades, echoing the constant balance of light and depth.
The boardroom, immediately off reception, became an extension of the new design language of the lobby – fluted walls in the same tone bookend the space. Rather than replace the custom conference table, the design team conceived a way to refresh it. The stainless-steel base was re-skinned in bronze metal, and the project team restored the white stone surface. Existing Knoll benches were reupholstered in a warm leather tone, and new lighting was installed, bringing all the new materials to life.
The Heart of the Space
The CEO’s office positioned strategically between the boardroom and lobby, has always been the heart of the space. Perched on the building’s corner, vistors feel both floating above the city and grouded by the space. Working closely with the CEO, Spectorgroup meticulously reviewed the furniture and materials for his new office. The materiality echoes the new language established in the lobby and conference room. The CEO’s iconic Georgetti desk was refinished in deep tones to complement the new material palette, and an existing marble table inspired the new seating around the lounge area. The CEO was highly active in this process and was instrumental in weaving his aesthetic into the new design. New furniture pieces were introduced by Walter Knoll, Poliform, Georgetti, the result is a carefully curated collection of furniture, each with its own meaning and a key element in the history and future of the space.
