Lower Manhattan, New York
The offices for Barker, an advertising and marketing firm based in lower Manhattan, are located in what was once the attic and elevator rooms of a 1920’s era skyscraper near Wall Street. The primary design intent was to open up this dim and somewhat claustrophobic space, and create a light-filled work center that emphasizes communal problem solving and creativity.
We expanded the space by clearing out all existing walls, and cutting a large opening in the floor of the former attic space. This is a rare type of modification in an older tall building, and took a good bit of engineering to make it work. We then crafted a winding, sculptural stair that forms the centerpiece of the office. It links the main lobby below to the group work and dining areas above.
Architect: Specht Harpman