This Tenant Opted to Design its Own LA Headquarters

When Brett Hyman, CEO of Los Angeles-based marketing and events company NVE Experience Agency, decided it was time for a new headquarters, he opted to leverage his company's talents rather than seek outside input.

“The focus of what we do is grounded in designing and building experiences around brands," Hyman explains. “We saw an opportunity to turn inward and weave NVE's values into every detail of the environment, from the way we laid out our community spaces down to the doorknobs."

The team chose a blank 12,000 square-foot office in LA's West Hollywood neighborhood, transforming it into a lush open space that embodies NVE's ideals for 100 employees.

“We believe that the quality of our work is representative of the values and culture of the agency," Hyman says. “And we decided that the most effective way to elevate our work is to build the environment around NVE's unique perspective and personality."

To execute this vision in an open office, the team focused on three key principles: creativity, collaboration, concentration.

To promote creativity, NVE prioritized inspiration and innovation in the entryway where visitors have their first glimpse into the workspaces, but are also met with lush greenery, slate walls, exposed ductwork, and modern furniture.

This area also features neon signs that spell out the firm's mantras, artwork by Ed Ruscha, Mr. Brainwash, and Roy Lichtenstein, and a custom mural by ThankYouX.

Above the custom-fabricated wood workstations built by NVE's Treehouse Fabrication studio, NVE installed an Aktura Softgrid Wave soundproof ceiling for improved acoustics and to allow for concentration.

Expansive views of the Hollywood Hills serve as a backdrop through nearby windows in this area. Employees also have access to seven conference rooms that are each uniquely configured to host brainstorms, client meetings, and video conferences.

There are also three phone booths and a library for increased privacy or alternative work space.

Understanding the importance of face-to-face communication, NVE also designed a central hub called the Arena for all-staff meetings, training sessions, and company events, complete with stadium-style seating.

An adjacent cafe features kombucha and cold brew on tap and serves as the perfect setting “to catch the epic sunsets at the end of the day," according to the firm. NVE also installed large planters of Sansevieria plants that absorb toxins and purify the air.

Ultimately, the firm's approach has proved effective for employees and clients alike.

“We've received extremely positive feedback from staff and clients and further proof is in the interactions and energy we have been seeing every day," Hyman says. “We feel confident we found our prescription for the open office debate."