office workplace design

Historically-inspired design for a flexible workplace

Splunk, San Francisco

When San Francisco-based technology company Splunk decided to expand its offices, it didn’t have to look any further than the building next door. A historic brick and timber structure adjacent to the existing location was the perfect fit for a rapidly growing team. We designed a flexible office space that honoured the building’s rich history, while supporting Splunk’s collaborative workforce and lively company culture.

At a glance

  1. An adaptable workspace for a growing team that celebrates spontaneity and flexibility.
  2. The design connects Splunk’s people with its dynamic work style.
  3. Materials complement the exposed brick and timber, subtly referencing the building’s heritage and the urban context.
workplace open plan

Originally constructed in 1907 as a printing and stationery warehouse, the building was also used as a meatpacking factory and was the first home of Gallo Salame. Three storeys of multi-paned windows bring natural light to large floor plates. High ceilings create an open, airy aesthetic. To celebrate the building’s history, we centred our design theme on the concept of a market. Each floor takes inspiration from an aisle in a food market: wheat/grains, canned goods, dairy, produce and meat. Colours, finishes and materials reflect each category, with warm woods and unique textures complementing the exposed brick and timber for a distinct aesthetic.

workplace booths
workplace table
office logo wall

Working within a historical building poses unique challenges and complexities. Careful attention and coordination were critical to ensure the original brick envelope was not compromised or damaged during construction. The team made creative selections to source suitable lighting and floor finishes to integrate with the building’s occasional low ceilings and sloped floors.

The new design weaves together Splunk’s existing aesthetic, while supporting its lively, collaborative work culture. Multi-functional spaces with varying technologies are dispersed throughout to encourage casual brainstorm sessions and conversations. Writeable walls, video conferencing, and flexible furniture support focused work and socialising, giving employees choice to find the right workspace to support them daily. Each floor features a showcase banquette – a unique setting for the spontaneous interactions that define Splunk’s DNA.

workplace open plan staircase in Toronto workplace design
workplace booth table
workplace conference room

Splunk’s new workplace provides layered opportunities for activity, connecting employees to one another, to the building’s history and to the city of San Francisco.

The central all-hands space offers diverse opportunities for connection. A mix of conference rooms, booths, and mobile settings inspire everything from private chats to formal conversations. The area easily converts from casual café seating to an open gathering space suitable for large meetings. A folding glass wall links the indoor environment to a spacious outdoor patio for extra room when hosting events and celebrations.

workplace teapoint
workplace high tables
workplace open plan groundfloor
Status

Completed

Completion date

2020

Location

San Francisco

Area

100,850 sq ft

Photographer

Emily Hagopian

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