Based in Malvern, a commuter suburb 25 miles west of Philadelphia, Microsoft’s new renovated workspace is inspired by the city-country connection its visitors often traverse. The renovation of Microsoft Malvern consolidated space with a more efficient office design by introducing flexible work space and omitting private offices. The design concept allowed Microsoft to reduce total square footage and streamline public and private zones. The first floor Microsoft Technology Center (MTC Philly) was renovated to provide an inspiring and intuitive place for customers to explore Microsoft devices and experiences. Connected by an existing monumental stair, the second-floor areas include multipurpose gathering spaces, various-sized meeting rooms, lounges, break out spaces, and unassigned sit-stand workstations.

The site-specific design integrates Microsoft’s Intelligent Workplace program: Design Language for Place leveraging natural light, instituting thoughtful spaces, and incorporating honest materials to humanize and connect guests to the built environment. The concept, a journey from city (Philadelphia) to country (Malvern), takes literal form as guests progress through the space from entry to stair and towards the workspace. City grit-inspired tones start at the monumental stair with custom-colored wall covering and polished concrete floors. Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market-inspired café anchors the gathering space and provides a soft-seating lounge area. Reminiscent of train tunnels, locally fabricated, custom millwork ribs with integrated LED accent lighting bounds the length of the room. Metal roof-inspired zig-zag patterns are balanced with geometric tiles reminiscent of countryside agricultural boundaries as seen from above. Various textured carpet tiles underscore the agricultural boundaries in the employee work space which is notably brighter, lighter, and softer in color.