The Rottet Studio design team aimed to create a relaxing work space tailored to the company’s unique culture, the San Francisco environment and an environment that was more home than office to the 14-person trading team. The office was conceived as a “white box.” As the white planes peel away, the materials, textures and colors behind are revealed resulting in a “visually quiet” space which counteracts the constant visual stimulation of multiple computer screens. No walls touch
the perimeter and service areas are located around the core, allowing clear views throughout the space of the entire city. Custom carpet emulates water lapping on the shore. A dark gray cleft stone surrounds the entire floor between columns to reinforce the notion of rippling tides at the water’s edge. Along the Bay side, incisions are cut into the white box in the ceiling in a pattern that emulates barges in the Bay. These incisions are carved away to reveal a warm wood material beyond and
provide ambient light. The city side is more rigid and orthogonal mimicking the city’s grid pattern. The six small offices double as mini art galleries. A giant door conceals the work area and, when closed, the room is void of visual elements allowing the impressive art collection to be the feature. The lounge-style chairs with matching ottomans allow employees to retreat into their “home” and relax.