Understanding what drives the need for change
When digital brokerage platform Altruist made the strategic decision to expand beyond their Culver City headquarters, they chose Dallas as their new customer support hub. This wasn't just about adding square footage—it was about creating a workspace that could attract talent back to the office in a post-pandemic world while supporting the unique demands of a customer service team that spends significant time on calls.
The 12,000 square foot space needed to serve multiple functions: welcoming clients and visitors, providing quiet zones for phone-heavy work, fostering collaboration among team members, and offering respite areas where employees could recharge. Perhaps most critically, Altruist wanted to design a space so compelling that employees would choose to work from the office rather than remain remote, helping build the company culture and team connections that drive business success.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram's design partnership with Altruist centered on creating distinct zones that would support different work styles and needs throughout the day. The team selected Steelcase Bivi benching systems for the open workspace, providing flexibility for collaboration while maintaining individual work areas. Understanding that customer support requires frequent phone calls, Tangram integrated ROOM Phone Booths strategically throughout the space, giving employees private retreats for sensitive conversations without disrupting their colleagues.
The aesthetic approach balanced sophistication with comfort, featuring a moody color palette and natural wood finishes that complemented the building's industrial architecture. Every furniture selection—from sleek lounge pieces that could accommodate impromptu meetings to purposeful rejuvenation areas—was chosen to create an environment where employees would want to spend their time. The result was a cohesive space that felt both professional for client interactions and welcoming for daily work.
6 solutions from 5 manufacturers
Belle Sectional
West Elm Work Belle is an expressive modular sectional featuring an overstuffed form and tufted channels inspired by 1970’s European design. Inspired by deco-era design and expertly tailored, its seat and wide channeled back stands up to commercial wear and tear. Better yet: it’s totally modular, able to adapt to the layout of your space. Designed by West Elm. Made by Steelcase.
Bivi
The Bivi Collection is built to accommodate any work style over time. Adaptable, easy, and beautiful to meet any need.
Phone Booth
A soundproof privacy pod for solo phone calls, virtual meetings and focused work in the office. The Phone Booth makes any shared space personal.
Lagunitas Lounge System
Adapt to changing workstyles and shifting work postures from the conventional to the casual. The Lagunitas product line creates a “third place” seating and table offering anywhere in your workspace while offering privacy, efficiency, and comfort. The 44 pieces within the collection can be endlessly reconfigured to meet the needs of your space.
Campfire Personal Table
Work anywhere with Turnstone's mobile Campfire Personal Table. With a work surface large enough for your laptop, this modern table works as hard as you do.
Bank Lounge Chair
Stately proportions, piped cushions and a generous seat depth will have you holding court. Choose either blackened metal or brass finish metal legs.
5 professionals brought this vision to life
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