DNB New York people working in breakout space

Using technology to support brand, culture and collaboration

DNB, New York

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.

At a glance

  1. Using workplace strategy to identify and meet project objectives, while designing for the future.
  2. Creating an adaptive framework of spaces for collaboration and focus.
  3. Achieving WELL Platinum & LEED Gold Certification.
  4. Developing a customised workplace app that acts as a centralised location for the DNB digital workplace experience.
person at teapoint
Green wall sustainable design
person working in booth breakout

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.

man admiring view in casual area
people socialising at teapoint
person at reception and people in breakout area

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.

person working on work floor
DNB New York people working in breakout space
woman working in booth and woman working on table

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.

 

person working in work lounge
DNB New York woman at table and view of meeting room and green wall
man giving presentation to colleague
Status

Completed

Completion date

2022

Location

New York

Area

25,000 sq ft

Accreditations

WELL Platinum
LEED Gold

Photographer

Aaron Thompson

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