Bolt Threads' new HQ incorporates elements that align with the company’s culture and values by creating an environment that’s inviting and encourages employees to collaborate and engage with one another – fostering a sense of community.

Bolt Threads had three main areas they were looking to solve for:

Bolt Threads was moving to a new HQ where they would be adopting a hybrid work model. They required a large open workplace that would provide a community buzz that would facilitate cross-team collaboration - a together space.
They wanted their new space to reflect their brand and a more sustainable design approach.
They required an aggressive timeline for move-in.

Dubbed the LAB Berkeley, the project involved repositioning an existing industrial complex for a blend of uses including creative office space, light manufacturing, and life science labs and R&D facilities. Their new HQ was also designed to accommodate an intricate structural grid with low roofs flanking either side and featured staircases.

While the Bolt Threads team initially requested a large open space for collaboration, through our workplace strategy data findings it was discovered that having work and collaborative areas separated would work best for their teams. Along with offices, their space has quiet zones, an amphitheater LAB and presentation LAB, collaboration hubs, and communal areas that were created to foster the employee connectivity that Bolt Threads sought such as a boutique fitness center, an expansive indoor-outdoor private mezzanine overlooking the San Francisco Bay, an outdoor collaborative area, and a second-floor roof deck.

The earthy-toned color palette that runs through their new workplace creates not only a visually appealing atmosphere but reflects the essence of Bolt Threads’ identity and ethos. As an innovative materials company that uses technology/biotechnology to create textiles inspired by nature, it was only fitting to design an environment that represented that. While the colors and furniture throughout bring depth and warmth to the space, greenery, natural lighting, and an outdoor space provide environmentally friendly solutions as well as health and wellness benefits.

While the requested turnaround for project completion was quick, it was attainable. Using our integrated approach, risk was mitigated, and unnecessary hurdles avoided by having a full in-house team involved in the project from day one. By working efficiently with the project’s architect, the two companies were able to create a phased approach where they co-developed the project’s direction, ensuring both teams were aligned on responsibilities. And with design and construction under one roof, there was no hand-off down the line – keeping the project on time and budget to meet the client’s needs.

Propeller Consulting

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