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Financial Services Client

Over six floors at One New York Plaza, a new activity-based workplace secures LEED Gold and Fitwel certifications.

Size 270,000 sf

Location New York, NY

Services Brand Experience, Interior Design, Strategy, Sustainability

Sectors Financial, Workplace

Specialty Studios Ark, BEYOND, brandx

Brightly lit hallway featuring a modern reception area set against a backdrop of abstract artwork. Sleek wall design combines wood paneling with a minimalist aesthetic. Individuals engage in conversation, embodying a welcoming atmosphere that emphasizes collaboration and contemporary design in a professional setting. Textural contrasts enhance visual interest.

In support of our client’s Workplace Evolution initiative—which revolves around an activity-based working model—we refurbished 270,000 square feet of space across six floors at One New York Plaza. This extensive renovation covered planning strategy, interior design, furniture selection, finishes, environmental graphics, and signage. HLW’s change management team, Ark, played a pivotal role, acclimating employees to a new era of work and getting people excited to return to the office. Committed to sustainability, the project aimed for and achieved LEED Gold and Fitwel certifications, ensuring the refreshed spaces—including workplaces, meeting areas, support spaces, and restrooms—set a new standard for eco-friendly and dynamic office environments.

Transformed expansive office spaces into a model of modern, activity-based work.

Successfully acclimated employees to innovative work styles and environments.

Secured LEED Gold and Fitwel certifications.

A modern interior space features a sleek hallway leading to a unique pod-like structure with soft, ambient lighting. A woman relaxes inside the pod, demonstrating innovative use of minimal design elements. Natural materials and a light color palette enhance the serene atmosphere, promoting both comfort and creativity.
A contemporary corridor features sleek, polished concrete flooring and textured wooden paneling. On the left, a woman engages in conversation with a seated individual in a modern blue upholstered recess. Soft, ambient lighting from overhead fixtures enhances the inviting atmosphere, promoting collaboration and comfort within the space.
Modern office space featuring an open-plan layout with sleek glass partition walls. The meeting area includes a minimalist design with blue accent wall, complemented by grey carpeting and white ceiling exposing ductwork, revealing a blend of contemporary style with industrial elements.
Corporate interior with dramatic lighting
Open-plan office featuring a harmonious blend of natural wood panels and modern furnishings. Glass partitions provide transparency, while acoustic ceiling panels enhance comfort. Individuals engage in collaborative work in this well-lit, contemporary space.
Modern office interior with industrial style featuring exposed ceiling and polished concrete floors. The focal point is a bold dark accent wall with motivational text "Put Clients First" beside framed abstract art, reflecting a professional yet creative workspace ambiance.
Modern office lobby featuring a minimalist reception desk with a subdued color palette, complemented by vibrant yellow armchairs and a vivid abstract painting, creating a welcoming contrast. Geometric pendant lights and exposed ceiling elements add an industrial touch to the space.
Modern office break room featuring acoustical ceiling panels, black pendant lighting, and lime green chairs paired with natural wood tables. People are casually interacting, reflecting functional design promoting productivity and social interaction.
Modern office break area featuring an open-concept layout with exposed white beams, ambient lighting, and a variety of seating styles including high stools and plush circular ottomans. The space also includes wall-mounted monitors and wooden shelving for a functional yet stylish environment.

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A spacious lounge area features warm wood flooring and an open layout, highlighting a modern kitchen with sleek cabinetry. The inviting seating arrangement includes tan leather armchairs and a minimalist sofa, complemented by circular rugs and potted plants, creating a welcoming and contemporary atmosphere.

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A modern conference room featuring a sleek, elongated table surrounded by ergonomic orange chairs. Natural light floods through large windows, highlighting the warm wood paneling and geometric accent wall. Plush seating offers a cozy corner for collaboration, complemented by greenery that adds a touch of vibrancy to the space.

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