Health Plan of San Mateo, a not-for-profit firm with a staff of over 350, needed to revamp its space to be more efficient and better serve its clientele. The firm had not moved in over 15 years and its current space, while dated and full of private offices, was the only standard most of the employees had known. Making the transition to an open office environment with less than half the current number of private offices would be an added challenge for both management and staff. This would also be the first time that many in the client group would go through the process of programming, design and architecture, furniture selection and the construction process.
Along with professional skills, patience and humor, the AP+I Design team made a commitment to be attentive listeners and to educate and manage the client through each phase of an often overwhelming process.
The final solution is an open environment with abundant natural light and sweeping views to the surrounding hillsides. The space incorporates an array of private offices, huddles and conference rooms, punctuated with dynamic, colorful extended soffits denoting the spaces. Warm colors, textures and materials create a welcoming atmosphere for employees and visitors.
