Why M Moser’s transformation of a New York office speaks to the changing world of work

Adopting a blended workplace strategy, M Moser has breathed vibrant new life into a New York office on behalf of a global financial institution. This marked a significant step in the firm’s journey towards a more flexible, collaborative approach to work, as at the heart the concept was a focus on creating agile configurations and a stronger sense of community.

Opting for a modern, refined aesthetic, the interiors nod to the client’s European heritage while maintaining a look unique to its New York City location. A palette of warm, textured materials is brightened by elegant fixtures such as ornate framed paintings and abstract patterned rugs, while rich wood tones, architectural curves, layered lighting and greenery help foster a multi-sensory experience. Front-of-house area such as the lobby are also imbued with a hospitality feel, mirroring a hotel reception to create a striking yet welcoming atmosphere for both employees and visiting clients.

Laying the groundwork for flexible layouts and layers of digital transformation, M Moser began the redesign with one of the most significant changes – and a key indicator of the company’s shifting approach to work. The team consolidated seven floors into three in response to the firm’s hybrid working policy, enabling each space to become more connected and intuitive as they operate within a more compact footprint. Originally designed with a 60-40 split between traditional workstations and alternative work settings, the team pivoted as far as a 99-1% ratio to place collaboration at the forefront of the company’s day-to-day operations.

Following this consolidation and proposed workplace split, the floors were divided into separate ‘neighbourhoods’ to maximize the floor plate. These neighbourhoods encompass of a mix of work points, meeting rooms and support spaces, ensuring a long-term approach as the bank adapts to any future changes.

This departure from traditional office conventions continues with the addition of a Social Hub and an Innovation Lab, two mixed-use spaces designed to support social interaction, teamwork and creative brainstorming. As well as work productivity, M Moser created these mixed-use zones with employee wellbeing in mind, achieved through considered details such as ergonomic furniture and wireless chargers, quality acoustics, plenty of natural light and improved air quality, joined by a living plant wall that takes centre stage in the Social Hub. Also integrated throughout are strategic acoustic zones, comprised of carefully selected materials and finishes to absorb sound more effectively. This ensures that both the open and enclosed areas provide the right environment for different tasks, providing flexibility without compromising on practicality or privacy when necessary.