Gensler’s BDO Offices in Austin seamlessly blend eco-friendly materials and local artistry, creating a vibrant, flexible workspace that embodies BDO’s commitment to sustainability and employee well-being.

BDO USA, a leading assurance, accounting, tax, and advisory services agency, collaborated with Gensler to design a dynamic new office space in downtown Austin. The space blends eco-friendly materials and systems, wellness, and a distinctly local character. The workplace was conceived to reflect BDO’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values while offering employees a setting that feels authentic to the city this workplace calls home.

Thoughtful material selection was central to the project’s design strategy, supporting BDO’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and to halve emissions by 2030. Polished concrete floors, recycled carpet tiles, and renewable cork wall coverings are examples of sustainable design solutions used to reduce material use and enhance acoustics and texture. Non-toxic finishes and ceiling tiles made with high recycled content promote healthier indoor air quality and reinforce BDO’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Collaborating closely with Gensler, BDO sought to create a workplace where its employees would thrive. The design prioritizes flexibility and well-being, providing a mix of open and enclosed areas that support both collaboration and independent work. Natural light and expansive city views define the interior, while social zones — including a central lounge with a shuffleboard table — encourage connection, offer moments of respite, and build a sense of community among staff. In tandem to these dynamic spaces, there are a number of private spaces for tasks that require a deeper focus.

Local identity plays a defining role in the overall design. All art was created by Austin-based artists to highlight the city’s creative culture, while custom brand signage and graphics create a comprehensive visual flow throughout the workplace. The result is a bright, welcoming, contemporary environment that supports BDO’s employees and demonstrates how design can advance sustainability goals and reflect local character.