The Managing Partner for a nationally affiliated law firm asked Daedalus Workshop to provide conceptual design, planning, and construction management services for the relocation of his New York office. Daedalus Workshop was also asked to develop a modular system of office furniture that could be easily dismantled, transported and re-assembled in another space, should the firm choose to relocate again.

The goal was to develop an overall concept for the firm that projected a modern, progressive outlook. The systems furniture was to be unique and custom, but must still function in a modular way so that the pieces can be adapted to any space.

Project team:

Richard Lucas; Lydia Kiehborth Custom Millwork: Better Glass and Woodwork Custom Metalwork and Installation: The Process Company General Contractor: Highline Design Corporation

Schematic sketches and drawings for the furniture were developed prior to looking for potential space to rent. Once the search for a new office began, Daedalus Workshop accompanied the Managing Partner and his Broker to visit several offices, while also working closely with the staff to develop layouts for those spaces that fulfilled the firm's needs in terms of size, location and amenities.

The 7,500 square foot space finally chosen was move-in ready with separate offices, a large conference room, kitchen and IT closets already in place. Daedalus Workshop proposed some plan adjustments and coordinated the relevant electrical and plumbing work while continuing to make further adjustments and refinements to the systems furniture.

Attorneys will be located in existing offices while paralegals, interns and other support staff will be in an adjacent open area.

The systems furniture was designed and detailed using several ready-made metal filing cabinets and shelving units enclosed within custom-fabricated particle board frames painted with a grey lacquer finish.

Overall, the furniture consists of desks and 'work cubicles', copy kiosks and storage stations, including a 35' long legal-size filing unit that delineates circulation within the main work space, creating a signature element for the office that doubles as a prep surface on which to organize paperwork for various legal proceedings and filings.

Located behind the Receptionist, the existing curved wall of the Conference Room was finished with a cement board panel system, providing an identifying image for the firm within the building and a dramatic backdrop for the Entry.

The custom designed Receptionist and Office Manager's desk features high-gloss lacquer front and side panels accented with a transaction counter constructed from custom-milled aluminum channels, plates and angles.

The custom designed Receptionist and Office Manager's desk features high-gloss lacquer front and side panels accented with a transaction counter constructed from custom-milled aluminum channels, plates and angles.