Perkins Eastman Shanghai Office

Perkins Eastman’s Shanghai studio, located in the heart of the historic former French concession, provides a design “workshop” environment for 50 creative professionals and staff. From their 38th floor space, sweeping views are emphasized, connecting the studio with city life and the inspiring Shanghai skyline.

A dramatic floating “Canopy” organizes enclosed spaces, storage and display functions along the interior edge of the L-shaped studio thus allowing for maximum openness, views and daylight in the main design studio. Large sliding pin-up panels showcase the studio’s work in progress for reference and inspiration.

In addition to accommodating the needs of an architectural design studio, the space is also intended as: a gallery, showcasing the firm’s design and built work; a product showroom, and a community space to support design industry events.

Materiality, Authenticity, Craft and Transparency were all key design drivers in the design. The entire studio was intended as much a creative workshop as it was a showcase of the firm’s “Human by Design” ethos.

The sustainable approach places an emphasis on employee health, safety and comfort and targeted LEED Silver as the sustainability benchmark.  The interior layout optimizes open space, maximizing daylight and view.