Cerity Offices – Austin

The 9,200 sf office includes open work areas, break room, conference rooms, private offices, huddle rooms, phone rooms, and several collaboration areas. To maximize the budget, the design team integrated existing architecture into the design and strategically used color, wall coverings, and unexpected design elements in community spaces. Design highlights include a unique, baffled ceiling treatment in the break room, stadium seating in the main conference room, and graphic flooring treatments. The client wanted to create a very welcoming first impression as well as showcase the company s fun culture. To meet the client s goal, the office entrance opens up to the break room and lounge in lieu of a reception area. Glass entry doors allow passersby and guests to catch a glimpse of the lively atmosphere even before they enter. In the midst of construction, the COVID-19 virus caused Cerity to rethink work areas, desk spacing, and community spaces. The Abel Design Group team reconfigured the previously designed open benching system to accommodate CDC guidelines and still accommodate all employees and future growth without any impact to the architectural layout, overall construction cost or schedule. The project reflects a contemporary approach to workplace and public architecture that balances programmatic efficiency with a strong sense of place, using material honesty, daylight, and spatial flexibility to support the evolving needs of occupants. Its successful delivery demonstrates how thoughtful design can align commercial or institutional goals with the well-being of the people who use the space on a daily basis.