Understanding what drives the need for change
When Stonebriar Commercial Finance decided to create their new 100,000 square foot headquarters in Plano, Texas, they faced a unique design challenge. As a financial firm specializing exclusively in the transportation industry, they wanted their workspace to authentically reflect their expertise while creating an environment that would draw employees back to the office in a post-pandemic world. The leadership team envisioned more than just another corporate office—they wanted a space that would serve as a magnet, inspiring collaboration and pride in their specialized industry focus.
The challenge extended beyond aesthetics. With eight distinct zones to program—from reception and private offices to a speakeasy and outdoor areas—the space needed to function as both an impressive client destination and a dynamic daily workplace. The design had to balance the sleek, forward-moving energy of transportation with the warmth and comfort necessary for employee wellbeing. Most importantly, every design decision needed to support their goal of creating a space so compelling that it would naturally encourage full office occupancy.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram partnered with Perkins&Will to translate Stonebriar's transportation-inspired vision into a thoughtfully curated furniture and technology solution. The design approach centered on the concept of streamlined motion—using clean lines, angular forms, and a sophisticated palette that would echo major modes of transport without feeling literal or themed. The team carefully selected pieces from premium manufacturers including Steelcase, HALCON, Davis, West Elm, ERG, Extremis, Blu Dot, and Cassina, ensuring each selection reinforced the overall narrative of elegant movement and precision.
The furniture curation strategy balanced bold sophistication with inviting warmth. Black became the unifying thread throughout the space—expressed through sharp metal and glass elements that were then softened by natural materials like rich wood veneer and stone. Private offices received Steelcase Mackinac systems while executive spaces featured HALCON pieces, creating a hierarchy of elegance that matched the firm's professional structure. Every zone, from the dramatic reception area to the casual outdoor spaces, received furniture that supported both the transportation aesthetic and the practical needs of a modern financial workplace.
9 solutions from 6 manufacturers
Remnant
The essence of this design is characterized by the perfect fusion between industrial curiosity to find new constructive forms, the warmth provided by the artisan work of the upholsterer, the elegance of the design and its impeccable details. The subtle and elegant quilting that surrounds both the armchair and the sofa adds texture to an iconic design that can be upholstered in a wide range of fabrics.
La Isla
Designed by the acclaimed Swedish studio, Note, La Isla is a seating programme for social areas – vast seas of inhospitable and unwelcoming space that Marc Augué has dubbed “non-places”.
Pion
Sancal looks to expand the possibilities of customisation with new, unique configurations for this colourful family of tables and stools. This design by Ionna Vautrin preserves the subtle essence of a classic, just like the game from which it draws its inspiration.
Encino
The Encino collection of banquettes offers an extensive variety of back heights with a unique channel detail look on the back and equipped to fit the right level of privacy needed for any space. The banquettes come as a single unit, as well as back-to-back, in a choice of glides or a plinth base. Great for any student union, cafeteria, corporate lounge or environment for comfortability.
Gemma Chair
The Gemma Collection stands out with its optimistic elegance. Featuring a system of three veneers – oak, walnut, and colored oak and birch – along with three base types, Gemma’s gentle geometry is easily adapted to its surroundings. The softly sculptural Gemma Stitch plays off the lightweight and laminar chair, extending the collection into informal collaborative spaces. Finally, there’s Gemma Table, an easygoing tabletop with three base styles and heights, with added power integration, adaptable for relaxation or light work.
Bon
Cast iron base and metal column powder coated in the colours black, white or grey aluminum. Table top in high pressure laminate (HPL) full colour or in MDF powder coated in black or white. Gliders in plastic.
6 professionals brought this vision to life
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