Jerde is an architecture and urban planning firm best known for high-profile international projects. When it came time to design their new headquarters they called on Rapt Studio, facilitating their move to the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Now housed in a historic landmark building, Jerde has firmly established itself within the city’s urban core.
Inspired just as much by hospitality as workplace design, the space welcomes visitors who come from around the world to meet with the firm. Warm wood paneling provides a backdrop, and large plants frame views of the blue LA sky. A conference room encased in glass can be separated into two rooms by a partition, and adjacent is a kitchen where employees gather. Just beyond is a model shop, where employees craft small versions of real-life projects.
Custom desks provide Jerde the flexibility of an open office layout and have large surfaces for reviewing drawings as teams, encouraging collaboration. A large, open library displays materials, and shelving like scaffolding shows off models and more plants.
Here, raw meets polished: exposed concrete and a waffle ceiling balance high-end finishes and luxurious textures like leather, walnut, and brass. A deep green – in a shade not far from the firm’s trademark color– provides a pop.
Jerde can now graciously receive its clients in a historic yet modern setting, showcasing their work and unique design process in an inviting space. To them, it signifies a rebirth of the firm.