Adobe is one of the largest and most diversified software companies in the world. For the initial expansion of its New York City HQ in Times Square, Adobe wanted to draw on the vibrant energy of the urban context. In addition, use the medium of colour to respond to worker needs and behaviours.
Inspired by the concept of a prism, the office design is a dynamic and colourful for Adobe New York’s 500 employees.
A prism dynamically refracts and reflects light. The workplace mirrors the vibrant energy of Times Square just outside. Inside, a range of different spaces activate the workplace. Therefore, a human-centred office design that prioritises diverse staff needs.
Specialty destination spaces on each floor enhance the journey. The spaces include a tech bar, library and adventure room, geared towards photography.
We know colour affects our behaviour, perception, performance and wellbeing. We worked closely with Adobe to develop a colour journey through the HQ stack. By analysing the desired behaviours, we chose the spectrum of colour best suited for each of the different spaces.
On arrival, visitors see a colourful glass film leading into a reception, hub and connected games room. Warmer tones of bright yellow, orange and Adobe red accents, mixed with playful stone and tile patterns, define the higher energy zones.
The central hub functions as both a café and all-hands space for hosting large, scaled gatherings. Locating the hub along the full west perimeter of the building maximises natural day light. Likewise, it benefits from sweeping views of Times Square. In addition, provides a viewing space for the infamous New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and other happenings.
Meanwhile, cooler-tones offset the vibrancy to encourage focused, heads down work. Subtle colour pops through organic carpet patterns and dynamic paint angles in blue, green and teal hues offer a gentle pull into zoned neighbourhoods and collaboration areas.
Colours and patterns inspired by Adobe platforms, including Adobe “A”-inspired paint angles, help tell the story of Adobe’s brand identity. Directional ceiling slats in the main corridors and elevator lobbies lead the eye to newly branded internal staircases. The staircases enhance wellness by encouraging employees to move vertically.
Adjacent to the staircases, business-driven destinations entice employees and build a curated client journey. Adobe artwork, conceptualised by M Moser, tells an inspiring story about the brand. Furthermore, it locates the office regionally by highlighting New York City landmarks.
On the whole, the office design encourages chance encounters, cross-collaboration, and direct exposure to the work of fellow Adobe teams. Consequently, it creates a sense of community and belonging for staff and visitors. Workplace culture and community are paramount for Adobe.
In the upcoming phases of this project, our New York team will continue to use design to integrate the Adobe community, and its locations, into one connected New York City campus.
Completed
2021
New York
81,972 sq ft
Aaron Thompson
