Neuberger Berman

The new 18-story office allows clients to have a full, cohesive experience – starting from the visitor center at the building lobby and concluding with the conference center.

One of the primary goals for this workplace was to create a variety of client meeting and entertainment spaces. Therefore, the design approach had to be contemporary and forward thinking, without alienating some of the firm’s more traditional clientele.

The firm’s impressive art collection complements the color palette and brings an element of excitement to the space.

The unique structure of the organization includes many teams that function independently, necessitating various programmatic considerations for the “working floors.” It was important that each group was heard and their specific needs were met. Since each group works independently and function as its own “boutique” firm, TMA created a solution that was specific and universal, private and open.

Another challenge was the narrow core-to-window dimension of the building. Ultimately a modular kit-of-parts design (“bento box”) evolved, which provided flexibility based on the particularities of each group and each floor.

In addition to client-facing features, the new workspace enhances employees’ day-to-day experiences, with amenities such as the grab & go café, tech bar, wellness center, broadcast studio, showers/nap rooms, and numerous multi-purpose and small meeting rooms.

A food service kitchen allows the organization to host social events of varying scale with daily catering services.

Private offices have glass fronts to let in abundant light and pleasant views.

TMA developed a more agile approach to workspace on the tech floor, where the staff were assigned to team neighborhoods rather than desks.

This includes different work settings that support focus work, collaboration, and everything in between.

A comprehensive change management program introduced the project to the staff through a firm-wide “Expo.” Staff were invited to visit booths to learn about new planning strategies, furniture, technology, and finish materials. They were encouraged to “vote” on all items and provide their feedback so that the design team could review and adapt as needed.

“TMA developed a “bento box” modular design concept that allowed for strong flexibility in how the workspace accommodates the sheer size and variety of programmatic requirements in this 18-story office.”