SYNCHOLOGY

Chicago, Illinois

Synchology, a prepaid branded payment company, located its office within a 2100 sq. ft. space in downtown Chicago. The client stressed two values that needed to be addressed in the design: the minimalist direction of the company and flexibility for a collaborative and quickly evolving working environment. To maximize the usage of this long and narrow space, several strategic areas utilized an open plan to initiate grand spacial qualities as well as exclusion of ceilings to expose the rough-sawn timber structure increasing volume. The walls along fluid circulation paths and offices were finished with chalkboard surfaces for quick notation and expression of ideas to further influence collaboration amongst users. A minimal material palette of hardwood, metal and paint finishes played a vital role in reflecting Synchology’s image while aesthetically connecting with the context of historic downtown Chicago.