The overall approach for this project was to create a ‘home’ with spaces that are comfortable and respect both the environment and neighbouring architecture, whilst using furniture to compliment the design. Inspired by the family environment (vestibules, libraries, lounges, and living rooms), spaces both energize and provide balance with designated areas for quiet/focused work, booths for quick-meetings, and write-on walls adjacent to interior workstations fostering inspiration, connection, and choice. The space is 9,600 square feet but feels larger through clever use of flexible workspaces, efficient use of space, and visibility throughout the building.
Understanding the different brand personalities of Bacardi was key to this project, and yet the design team had to ensure the environment and experience threaded together coherently as ‘one Bacardi’. Some aspects were prescribed, such as the legendary El Coco palm within the bar area which is found in every office and factory around the world. Other references were more subtle, like a ‘localised’ homage to the exterior of Bacardi’s original 1950’s modernist Miami headquarters. Additionally, IA incorporated nods to the Art-Deco architecture of Havana, where Bacardi was originally based, in order to emphasize the company’s legacy.