When Innosight, a global strategy and innovation consulting firm, decided to move their headquarters from Watertown to Lexington, Massachusetts, they sought to transform their physical image. No longer a startup, Innosight wanted to convey their establishment as a worldwide leader and distinguish themselves from the competition with a sophisticated look and feel. They needed flexible space in order to facilitate quick and easy testing of ideas.

Also, the design had to be subtle—the space needed to showcase, rather distract from, the innovative thinking and work taking place. Originally retained to help Innosight envision its Design Center, Sasaki provided interior architecture strategies that transformed the entire new headquarters. The company’s office space has now become an integral part of the client experience of working with Innosight, as well as a key recruiting tool for new talent.

Built around a central, light-filled atrium in what was originally a multi-tenant building, all spaces are highly connected and provide a continuous sense of the activity and energy of the office. Visitors can view work in process, and Innosight is also able to maintain necessary confidentiality. Teams collaborate informally in small groups in a variety of highly functional settings near their desks.

A series of war rooms allow for long-term interaction for days, weeks, or even months at a time. And the Design Center provides Innosight with ultimate flexibility—space that can successfully accommodate groups from 10 to 100 in a variety of setups. Operable walls allow for acoustical subdivisions, while partitions on wheels that nest into walls for storage provide quick and constant changeability. Everything is covered in whiteboard—the space is treated as a lab rather than a presentation room.

As part of the company’s efforts to recruit, retain, and take care of its staff, the new office also provides amenity spaces such as a café/lounge, fitness center, and outdoor deck. In total, the Innosight headquarters is a destination space for both clients and staff—fostering creativity and collaboration, and exhibiting exemplary innovation.

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