Project Name: Wizards of the Coast - Southport

Project Statement: This project for a major gaming company was driven by the need to create a highly functional workspace that aligns with the company’s culture of creativity and innovation. Our approach was to design an environment that blends the practical demands of an office with elements that reflect the client’s unique identity. By moving away from conventional office design, we aimed to create a space that feels authentic, dynamic, and tailored to the imaginative nature of the company.

A key focal point in the design is the ceiling feature, which is both a functional and aesthetic element. Its form draws inspiration from a dragon’s undulating shape, providing a visual element that guides movement through the space. This ceiling feature isn't purely decorative; it was designed to create a distinctive atmosphere while maintaining clean lines and a cohesive look throughout the office. The structure of the ceiling integrates lighting and acoustics, ensuring both aesthetic and performance requirements are met.

Integrated into the grid-like framework of the ceiling are cone-shaped elements that unexpectedly protrude from select areas. These elements break the rhythm of the grid, creating visual intrigue and drawing the eye upward. The interplay between the structured framework and the unexpected forms adds depth and character to the space, challenging traditional design expectations while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

One of the design’s standout features is Mitzy the dragon, a centerpiece that has historical significance to the client. To honor this, we incorporated a sculptural element made from columnar basalt stones, a subtle nod to the polyhedral dice used in the company’s games. This feature integrates seamlessly into the office, adding a touch of whimsy while maintaining a professional atmosphere. It serves as a reminder of the company’s roots in storytelling and innovation while reinforcing its forward-looking approach.

For the material palette, we selected plywood, concrete, and exposed steel for their raw, utilitarian properties. These materials were left in their natural state to emphasize durability and structural integrity. The choice of materials was driven by the desire to create an industrial yet polished atmosphere. Exposed concrete walls were left untreated, preserving texture and character that is typically concealed in modern offices. Steel supports and brackets were highlighted to showcase the office’s structural elements, which creates a strong visual rhythm and gives the space an honest, straightforward feel.

While the base palette remains neutral, we introduced color accents strategically throughout the office. Drawing from the company’s gaming worlds, we integrated deep blues, rich reds, and golds in specific areas like meeting rooms, soft seating, and floor finishes. This approach ensured the brand’s identity was woven into the design without overwhelming the functionality of the space. These colors create focal points within the broader office plan, balancing the otherwise industrial materials with warmth and vibrancy.

The workspace layout was designed to accommodate flexibility, moving toward a hoteling model where employees do not have assigned desks. This layout supports various work modes, from focused individual work in quiet zones to open collaborative spaces for group activities. By designing adaptable spaces, we ensured that the office could evolve with the company’s changing needs. Private work areas, small meeting rooms, and larger gathering spaces allow employees to choose environments that best suit their tasks, improving overall productivity and engagement.
Strategically placed tea points serve as both functional and social hubs throughout the office. These spaces are positioned near team clusters to foster interaction and serve as informal meeting spots. In addition to their practical use, the tea points offer sweeping views of Mount Rainier or Gene Coulon Park, providing moments for employees to step away, reflect, and recharge. The positioning of these tea points aligns with our goal of creating spaces that promote wellness and provide a break from the intensity of work.

Our design objective was to create an efficient, adaptable office that reflects the gaming company’s culture and supports its business needs. By prioritizing flexibility, functionality, and brand alignment, we’ve created a space that not only meets the demands of the present but also positions the company for future growth. The use of durable materials, thoughtful spatial planning, and integration of key brand elements resulted in a workspace that encourages creativity, collaboration, and innovation while maintaining a high level of operational efficiency.