Orchard Global Asset Managment

The new Houston offices for a global assets management firm combines an international modern style (a nod to their London and New York headquarters) with local Texas eclecticism. The simple plan organizes a predominately open floor around a square “boardroom box” and a rectangular “office bar”, both of which have an opaque back side and a transparent traversable wall which dematerializes its boundary from the spaces beyond.

Liberated from the formality of a receptionist’s desk, the office opens onto a relaxed living room, its alluring comfort spurring spontaneous meetings. Bookending the near side is a full-service coffee bar, while the far side features the “boardroom box”. Transparency is achieved through the large pivoting wall – when open the space blends living and meeting – that closes fully for private conferencing. Nevertheless, natural light permeates the internal boardroom through its large window wall, anchored in a low stone plinth. Tucked behind the boardroom are two discreet conference rooms with large sliding doors which when open give the “boardroom box” its floating feel.

Separating the public social lounge from the more private workspaces, the rectangular “office bar” contains the kitchen and workroom, huddle rooms, smaller offices and conference rooms. The transparent face of the “bar”, outfitted with Maars wall systems, opens onto the trading floor bringing light into every space.

Boisterous and colorful pop art punctuate the walls, bringing a cheeky ‘tude to the otherwise calming space. Touches of Texas, like the cowhide rug and pump-jack photos, tip their hat to the great state.