Global investment firm Cambridge Associates' move to the upper floors of Winthrop Center, a new building in Boston’s Financial District, represents an innovative leap forward in workplace design.

Sustainability was a key factor in Cambridge Associates' decision-making process. IA conducted a thorough sustainability analysis, leading to Winthrop Center's selection for its LEED Platinum and WELL Gold certifications and energy-efficient Passive House office space. Designed according to Passive House, Winthrop Center prioritizes features like a well-insulated façade and advanced energy recovery ventilation system. Studies like COGfx demonstrate the positive impact of improved air quality on cognitive function, reinforcing the significance of a healthy indoor environment.

Beyond sustainability, Cambridge Associates' office design fosters collaboration and creativity. The adoption of an unassigned seating model encourages collaboration, while hive neighborhoods offer diverse work settings, including focus pods and collaborative zones. The 25th floor features a double-height reception and breakout zones, serving as the centerpiece of the design and enhancing the employee, client, and recruit experience.

The design achieves a delicate balance between openness and intimacy, with lighting and transparency complemented by warm, inviting spaces. Lit baffled ceilings and wood features create visually captivating environments, while areas without exterior views prioritize intimacy with cozy elements like area rugs. Cambridge Associates' new workspace embodies a holistic approach to workplace design, prioritizing sustainability, functionality, and employee well-being, setting a new standard for modern workplaces in the process.