Discovering the Perfect Creative Space
Architecture studio Snøhetta has relocated its New York City headquarters to the vibrant Dumbo district in Brooklyn, transforming a former cardboard manufacturing warehouse into an innovative open-plan office. Situated along Washington Street, the new space offers striking views of the Manhattan Bridge, enriching the creative environment with urban energy.
From Financial District to Dumbo’s Cultural Hub
The decision to move came after Snøhetta’s lease expired in the Financial District and pressures from rising Manhattan costs grew. “The building we were in was sold, so we were going to move,” noted Elaine Molinar, a partner at Snøhetta New York, in an interview with Dezeen. The office on the top floor of 55 Washington Street immediately caught their attention with its raw, unfinished aesthetic that promised potential.
“The minute we walked in, we knew it was the place to be,” Molinar explained. The unique character of the building’s structure appealed to the team’s need for a space promoting informal collaboration and creativity.
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A Dynamic Layout for Innovation
The new office layout fosters a dynamic blend of work and relaxation. Desks are arranged in an open-plan format leading to an elevated area beneath a large skylight. This space, equipped with tables and chairs, can be accessed via wooden stadium stairs, offering a setting for both work and social interactions.
Surrounding the central area are smaller utility rooms, including a material library and dedicated spaces for modern fabrication techniques such as laser and 3D printing.
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Enhanced Connectivity and Design
The office entrance opens to a sweeping L-shaped terrace with breathtaking views of the Manhattan Bridge, providing an ideal lunch spot for employees. Highlighting the creative spirit, the Counterbalance installation, a striking star-shaped wooden see-saw, graces a corner of the terrace.
With a lounge area featuring wooden seating and a drafting desk, the entrance sets a welcoming tone. “You can walk straight outside onto the terrace, or you can come into this spot and sit in the rocking chairs and have a beautiful view out,” Molinar shared.
Dumbo: A Thriving Design Community
Positioned in a burgeoning design hub, officially recognized as a New York City Design District last year, Snøhetta joins over 150 architecture and design firms, including BIG’s New York offices. The studio also contributed by designing the Design District logo introduced during NYC design week.
Snøhetta continues to work on the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in North Dakota, with a significant model showcased in the new office. Earlier this year, the studio faced challenges, including allegations of unlawful employee dismissals related to unionization efforts.
The project photography is by Nicholas Venezia.
Sources & Links
Source: dezeen.com