Refurbishing a live heritage workplace for hybrid work
A carefully sequenced refurbishment aligning workplace design, technology, and delivery within a live heritage building.
LinkedIn’s 27th and 28th floors play an important role within its New York headquarters. The project focused on modernising both levels while respecting the character and operational constraints of the Empire State Building.
From the outset, the brief required each floor to serve a distinct purpose. One level was designed to support hospitality and collaboration, while the other focused on quieter work and training. Athena Blue worked closely with LinkedIn’s global and local teams to guide planning and delivery, ensuring technology, circulation, and shared spaces were integrated in a way that supported hybrid work and stronger in-office connection.
Different floor roles: Designing two floors with distinct functions while ensuring a cohesive workplace experience.
- Heritage constraints: Navigating base building requirements and approval pathways within a landmark tower.
- Internal staircase: Installing a stair between two active floors through careful sequencing and coordination.
- Technology integration: Aligning hybrid-ready AV, equipment vending, and a tech bar early in the programme.
- Live environment: Delivering works within an occupied building through staged delivery and clear communication.
The refurbished floors now operate as a more connected and flexible workplace, supporting a range of work styles and activities across both levels.
Key outcomes include:
- Improved hybrid collaboration: Technology-enabled rooms supporting seamless in-person and virtual work.
- Stronger vertical connection: An internal staircase encouraging movement and interaction between floors.
- Clear spatial balance: Defined environments for hospitality, focus, and training.
- Respect for heritage: A workplace that reflects modern needs while retaining the character of the building.
This project reflects the importance of early alignment between design, technology, and delivery when working within complex or heritage environments. Clear sequencing and coordination enabled a workplace that performs well today and can adapt as ways of working continue to evolve.
