SOM Los Angeles Office at Wells Fargo Center

The interior design encourages collaboration and teamwork—qualities central to how SOM works. The existing 36th-floor space was completely renovated to create an open plan, with no private offices. In this non-hierarchical environment, sit-stand workstations for various architecture and design discipline groups are integrated with studio leadership. Pin-up walls provide areas for teams to collaborate on designs, while white surfaces and an exposed industrial ceiling contribute to an untraditional “laboratory” office environment. Technology is integrated throughout the workspace and includes virtual reality systems. In the reception area, interactive touch screens allow visitors to explore the firm’s current projects and history.

The Los Angeles office received LEED Gold for Interiors Design + Construction under the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED v3. The Project has also achieved WELL Gold certification under IWBI’s WELL v1. Features that contribute to LEED & WELL Gold certifications include natural light and views, automated sit-stand desks, workstations located near filtered water sources, LED lighting, acoustic design, and indoor air quality, among other considerations. The office will be tested for WELL re-certification every three years.