Norway’s largest financial services group, DNB was looking to create a new, dynamic workplace. A space that would offer choice to employees, represent brand and culture, support collaboration and inspire engagement. Integrating advanced technology in a comfortable, people-centred environment was key.
Their new offices at Hudson Yards offered the perfect setting against panoramic views of New York City and the Hudson River.
A thorough discovery process helped us meet DNB’s strategic objectives by engaging in interviews, utilisation studies, surveys and social network analysis. This helped identify common collaborators among teams, how teams operated and what behaviours should be nurtured. Additionally, the findings demonstrated the importance of wellness and sustainability which guided the project to WELL Platinum & LEED Gold Certification.
Understanding how DNB’s teams worked in the present, and how they would evolve in the future, led to a variety of space types including multiple meeting areas and alternative work points to support different workstyles. Collaborative space was a key component of the design. A quarter of the floor plan is dedicated to communal areas including reception, social hub café and a multi-purpose conference space.
As a 200-year-old Norwegian financial institution, the workplace reflects DNB’s brand and identity through materials and finishes inspired by Scandinavian design. Warm oak and walnut wood tones, and deep hues of blues and greens represent the natural landscape of Norway. The design of the reception was informed by the structure of a Viking ship with a unique connecting space that features a Northern Lights installation. This landscape stands in quiet contrast to its vibrant New York City backdrop.
DNB’s space was designed to balance the physical demands of the business and the needs of its people – just as urban and natural environments balance each other. The workplace offers an adaptive framework of environments for congregation and focus.
In addition to interior design and strategy services, our in-house digital team delivered a customised and branded DNB community app. This personalised platform, a central location for the digital workplace experience at DNB, supports culture building, social connections, space management, booking, wayfinding and more. Key technology is integrated through the app and throughout the space – from wireless connectivity to building systems, networks and sensors. This integration of the physical and digital workplace supports long-term hybrid working, evolution and change through the power of analytics and data.
Completed
2022
New York
25,000 sq ft
WELL Platinum
LEED Gold
Aaron Thompson
