It just is ….. cool

Giant Pixel in San Francisco is a software developer occupying three floors near the City’s Mint Plaza, an area known for creative redevelopment and modernity drawn from vintage architecture. Located in a hip and stylish restaurant local, Giant Pixel wanted a casual urban look in keeping with its neighbourhood.  Design studio O+A’s  challenge was to fit a variety of distinct work areas into three small footprints and to do so with both beauty and economy which is a feat in itself.  A laser-cut blackened steel canopy at the entrance to the office begins the exercise with computer code patterns that create a striking visual matrix and divide the front into reception and waiting areas. The custom-fabricated concrete reception desk eschews traditional forms and substitutes a sweeping sculptural elegance offset by the wit of a desk-lamp chandelier. In the basement a lounge and bar provide a cozy in-house retreat for Giant Pixel’s staff and visitors, seriously why would you want to go home!  Upstairs a suspended fireplace and chimney create another arresting focal point evolving into mid-area workstations, a conference room and a private break cabana. Throughout Giant Pixel’s office one design thought prevails: that small spaces may acquire richness through an abundance of uses and careful orchestration of detail. I would have to say this is one of the coolest of work places I have ever seen. Its doesn’t even need to try … it just is… simply cool.

Story by Richard Misso – To see more by Studio O+A photos credited to Jasper Sanidad