By Unifying Diverse Brands
In the bustling city of Boston, Publicis Groupe sought to reimagine its workplace, amalgamating 1,500 employees from seven distinct brands under one roof. Designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects, the project aimed to foster collaboration and creativity among Digitas, GroupeConnect, Publicis Sapient, MSL, Re: Sources, Publicis Media, and Epsilon. Through a meticulous 12-month co-creation process, the architects engaged employees in shaping every aspect of the workspace, from culture to design elements.
Tailored Design Process
Recognizing the need for a tailored approach, Elkus Manfredi Architects initiated a co-creative design process, involving employees at all levels and across brands. Workshops and engagement exercises facilitated discussions on workplace vision, unique program requirements, and brand expressions. With a total of 1,500 people contributing as creative collaborators, the project unfolded as a seamless integration of employee feedback into the design concept.
Weaving Old and New
Situated in downtown Boston, the 215,000-square-foot space comprises five restored historic buildings interconnected by a modern glass addition. The design concept harmonizes old and new, weaving together vibrant themes reflective of Publicis’ diverse cultures and brands. A unique design element, termed “glitches,” infuses idiosyncratic touches throughout the floors, sparking creativity and inspiration among occupants.
Functional and Aesthetic Integration
Publicis occupies the top eleven floors, featuring a conference center, a café, and communal spaces for employees. The grand reception area on the 16th floor welcomes visitors with eclectic furnishings, leading to a two-story amphitheater boasting panoramic views of Boston Harbor. Each company within Publicis has a dedicated floor expressing its brand identity while maintaining coherence and connectivity across the workspace.
Flexible Workspaces
Embracing activity-based working, the office offers various work neighborhoods, benching desks, private phone rooms, and collaboration spaces. Joy spaces, designed to reflect each brand’s culture, provide inviting areas for relaxation and inspiration. Employees are encouraged to explore different work settings, fostering creativity and collaboration.
Seamless Integration
Mobile technology facilitates seamless transitions between spaces, enhancing flexibility and mobility. Consistent layouts and vertical stacking of program elements aid wayfinding and cohesion. Ultimately, the co-creation process has yielded a dynamic, flexible, and Instagrammable workplace, embodying Publicis’ vision of convening creative minds in a vibrant Boston hub.
