bss.pdf

BILL SMITH STUDIO new york, ny | renovation | design studio

The goal for the renovation of an existing warehouse space into offices for this young, dynamic

graphic design firm was to create a space that fosters collaboration, interaction and a sense of

community. We saw these as the core characteristics of the company and wanted to develop these

in the organization of the space.

Our main planning idea was to create an almost urban condition in the space. A large public space

or street occupies the center of the space surrounded by the neighborhoods of the different

departments. People can meet and circulate in this large central street that also accommodates

additional freelance consultants when the freelance area overflows in busy periods. This street is

also the library. It houses all of the books; both reference books and the books produced by the firm.

The product of the firm becomes a central part of the office environment.

The street is skewed to emphasize specific views- New Jersey on the west side and the Manhattan

skyline on the east. Because there is an existing building directly to the east we skewed the central

space south so that the view is directed diagonally across the open street corner for an unobstructed

long view of Manhattan.

The spaces are defined using a flexible system of off-the-shelf components that can be easily

reconfigured to provide openings into perimeter areas. The translucent fiberglass panels can be

flipped or removed altogether to change the level of privacy between spaces or to allow the

bookcases to face the central street space or the perimeter neighborhoods. Computer and power

lines are carried in cable trays to maximize flexibility.

SLADE ARCHITECTURE

367 east 10 th st , new york, ny 10009 | T 212.677.6380 | F 212.677.6330

BILL SMITH STUDIO new york, ny | renovation | design studio

SLADE ARCHITECTURE

367 east 10 th st , new york, ny 10009 | T 212.677.6380 | F 212.677.6330

BILL SMITH STUDIO new york, ny | renovation | design studio

SLADE ARCHITECTURE

367 east 10 th st, new york, ny 10009 | T 212.677.6380 | F 212.677.6330