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Watson Furniture collaborated with Skylab Architecture to create a dynamic and inspiring workspace for Arc'teryx’s footwear division in Portland, OR. This space was designed to reflect Arc'teryx’s values of high performance, minimalism, and thoughtful design while providing an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration.

  • Designer: Skylab Architecture
  • Watson Representative: Kayser Wesner
  • Space: Conference & Meeting
  • Product Collections:

    Miro, C9

Client Needs & Design Approach

Arc'teryx sought a workspace that would support their rigorous design process—one that blends technical excellence with an appreciation for the natural world. The design needed to accommodate seasonal workflows, material experimentation, and an evolving product development cycle. Skylab Architecture approached the project with a deep understanding of Arc'teryx’s brand ethos, focusing on simplicity, functionality, and sustainability.

Key Design Elements

  • Function-Led Furniture: Watson's products were selected for their refined, purpose- driven design, aligning seamlessly with Arc'teryx’s preference for minimalism without compromising on functionality.

  • Adaptability & Movement: The workspace features flexible, mobile furniture on casters, allowing for fluid collaboration and reconfiguration to support different phases of the design process.

  • Materiality & Sustainability: Watson's commitment to sustainable materials, such as linoleum work surfaces and exposed plywood edges, provided an environmentally conscious solution that aligns with Arc'teryx’s regional and global sustainability goals.

  • Collaborative Environment: Thoughtful storage and display solutions were integrated to ensure equal access to materials and foster a sense of shared ownership across departments.

Unique Features

  • Circular Workflow Layout: A strategic layout that reflects Arc'teryx’s iterative design process, allowing teams to visualize the entire development cycle from concept to final product.

  • Balance of Aesthetics and Utility: The design strikes a balance between refined, high- performance furnishings and organic elements, such as raw wood accents, to capture the brand’s adventurous spirit.

  • Pacific Northwest Partnership: The collaboration between Watson and Arc'teryx emphasizes local connections, with both companies rooted in the Pacific Northwest, fostering a shared commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.

    Results & Reception

    The new office has been met with positive feedback, earning industry recognition for its innovative approach to workplace design. Employees appreciate the thoughtfully designed space that enables peak performance and creativity while staying true to Arc'teryx’s brand identity.

    Conclusion

    The Arc'teryx footwear division’s creative office stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design and strategic partnerships. Watson Furniture’s adaptable and sustainably designed solutions have contributed to a workspace that inspires, supports, and evolves with the team’s creative journey.

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    "The ability to integrate natural materials like exposed plywood edges and sustainable linoleum surfaces made Watson an easy choice for us."

    — Reiko Igarashi, Skylab Architecture
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