Building Renovation Promotes Social Connectivity and Aides in Wayfinding

Microsoft selected Salas O’Brien to refresh the finishes and furniture for the building common areas, restrooms, kitchenettes, and lobby of this 239,000-square-foot building on their corporate campus. An area of importance was integrating accessibility into the design to comply with Microsoft’s inclusivity program.

The design team made an oversized two-story lobby feel appropriately intimate. Open screen walls create anchors for each functional zone and house a variety of seating. The generous size of the reception desk helps scale the vastness of the space and allows for ample visitor engagement.

Social spaces were previously underutilized; the design team infused a feeling of connectivity with simple but effective changes. Vibrant accent colors, new decorative lighting, and a unique, recognizable carpet layout at each elevator landing distinguished the two building wings while setting the stage for a refined, updated, and collaborative environment.