Project Description
With 27 domestic and 10 international locations, a key design strategy for Aquent’s newer offices is to reflect the company’s brand while also featuring design elements that reflect the location’s unique characteristics and influences. For the expansion of Aquent’s New York office, the design concept pays homage to some of Manhattan’s notable neighborhoods and areas – Greenwich Village, the Lower East Side, the Highline, the Museums of the Upper East Side, and Central Park. Through the use of creative, yet economical details and materials, the 10,000 square foot office is transformed into a vibrant and lively workplace. In lieu of a traditional reception area, employees and visitors are welcomed into Central Park Café – a space that accommodates multiple activities from casual workspace to socializing, to dining. Heading “Uptown”, one passes by interview rooms named after notable buildings and landmarks that are detailed with photorealistic wall coverings that depict archetypical brownstones along the window line. Decorative elements such as picture frame wall décor and transparent window film imprinted with beaux arts architectural flourishes that evoke the area’s museums. “Downtown” is where one finds a bright open workspace with benching and exposed ceilings. Bordering the west side if downtown is the “Highline” where green punched felt panels are hung, mimicking the lush greenery of the Highline Park while also providing visual and acoustical treatment for more focused work. In the East Village, a photo booth becomes a casual lounge; another large conference room features a record store aesthetic with cassette tape storefront window film; and a recording studio with sound proofing acoustical wall panels serves as quiet room. With judicious use of feature elements that support the overall design intent, Aquent’s NY Office has a uniquely curated look that is highly flexible and dynamic.