Case Study
MarketAxess, Hudson Yards
Spacesmith’s relationship with MarketAxess began over a decade ago with the design of their first HQ in NYC. Our team has gone on to design for the fintech firm’s London office, planned expansions, and, most recently, guided them through their move to a new location at the Hudson Yards Development.
The 83,000 sf space expresses a major rebranding effort focusing on transparency and a high-performance office designed as a launching pad for product development. The client requested areas for open communication, collaborative interaction, and executive summits, as well as an environment that could attract new hires and allow for growth.
Our team began by issuing on-line, all staff surveys in order to understand employee needs and how the new location could enhance efficiency and fulfillment. In addition, Spacesmith conducted in-person interviews with leadership and vision sessions with a cross section of staff. The responses allowed our team to quantify program elements by identifying types and quantities needed, as well as tech requirements.
“Warp speed” became a theme for the architecture as it relates to MarketAxess’ fast delivery of products and services. Our flexible design provides employees with the agility they require to engage in group innovation.
The floors are organized with executive areas, the boardroom, and conference rooms on floor 15, sales on 16, and IT and software development on 17. Only 10% of the workplaces are private offices. Glass walls are utilized throughout for transparency and the penetration of natural light. Informal breakout areas, shared pantries, and a large café/ lounge all serve as gathering spots.
15th Floor
16th Floor
17th Floor
Collaboration opportunities range from a variety of enclosed rooms with full tech capability and moving partitions to huddle areas and phone rooms that accommodate two - four people.
A signature feature is the thematic, three-story, angular wood wall sculpture along the floating staircase that connects each floor at reception. This self-supporting marble stair is wrapped with glass balustrades and guardrails, impressing visitors with views up and down, providing a sense of the workplace’s ample volume, and creating a central focus that unifies employees.
The overall palette of the design is clean, modern, and neutral with pops of color along the core walls and in the furniture. The main receiving floor has a sophisticated look with whitewashed, ash walls, marble flooring, and grey porcelain tile. As guests venture up, the décor begins to include more color to inspire creativity. The top floor features custom murals painted by world-renown graffiti artist, Crash.