When Innosight, a global strategy and innovation consulting firm,
decided to move their headquarters from Watertown to Lexington, Massachusetts,
they sought to transform their physical image. Innosight wanted to convey their
establishment as a worldwide leader and distinguish themselves from the
competition with a sophisticated look and feel. They needed flexible space in
order to facilitate quick and easy testing of ideas. Also, the design had to be
subtle—the space needed to showcase, rather distract from, their innovative
thinking and work. Sasaki provided interior architecture strategies that
transformed the new headquarters. The company's offices have become an integral
part of the client experience of working with Innosight, as well as a key
recruiting tool. Built around a central, light-filled atrium in
what was originally a multi-tenant building, spaces are highly connected and provide
a continuous sense of activity. Visitors can view work in process, and Innosight
is also able to maintain confidentiality. Teams collaborate informally in small
groups in a variety of highly functional settings. A series of war rooms allow
for long-term interaction. And the Design Center provides Innosight with
ultimate flexibility—space that can successfully accommodate groups from 10 to
100 in a variety of setups. Operable walls allow for acoustical subdivisions,
and partitions on wheels nest into walls for storage and constant changability.
Everything is covered in whiteboard—the space is treated as a lab rather than a
presentation room.
As part of the company's efforts to recruit, retain, and take care of its
staff, the new office also provides amenity spaces such as a café/lounge,
fitness center, and outdoor deck.
In total, the Innosight headquarters is a destination space for both clients
and staff—fostering creativity and collaboration, and exhibiting exemplary
innovation.