Box, a growing U.S. West Coast technology firm with over 800 employees, was looking to develop a workplace strategy that would be collaborative, flexible and provide the environment necessary to attract and retain top tech talent.

Beyond advanced and technology-focused workspace, this would require areas for social interaction that would provide respite and inspire casual idea-generating gatherings. The design needed to communicate Box’s business stability and security as a provider to Fortune 500 companies, while also promoting the high energy and forward thinking that tech companies embody.

The new headquarters is considered one of the gateways for the emerging downtown in Redwood City, near San Francisco. The space is spread across two towers and includes seven floors of workplace and parking, a first-floor reception and executive conference center; second-floor café, coffee bar and game area.

Because Box has been entrusted with confidential information by major corporations, the design approach reflects a more conservative and professional character on lower floor areas, including reception and executive conferencing, which have greater visibility for clients and corporate visitors. The day-to-day work areas and social areas are more spirited with branded space and colorful themes to engage employees, facilitate interaction and support the company’s workflow.

Each work floor is themed and color coded to reflect the irreverent and fun nature of the employees. Integrated wayfinding and branded graphics around the office reinforce the character of teams, with the added benefit of providing a visual system for navigation around each floor.