Understanding what drives the need for change
When ZestFinance, one of America's fastest-growing fintech startups, outgrew their original space, they faced a common Silicon Valley dilemma: how to create an inspiring workspace on a startup budget. Founded by former Google CIO Douglas Merrill, the company had built its reputation on applying sophisticated algorithms to credit decisions, and their new Hollywood warehouse needed to reflect that same blend of technical precision and creative innovation.
The challenge was particularly complex given the raw nature of their chosen space—a massive two-story warehouse that offered plenty of room for their rapidly expanding team but required a complete transformation. ZestFinance needed to accommodate significant growth while maintaining the energetic, collaborative culture that had fueled their success. Most importantly, they refused to compromise on design quality despite budget constraints, seeking a workspace that would inspire their team and impress clients without breaking the bank.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram partnered with Wolcott Architects to develop an innovative solution that turned budget limitations into design opportunities. Rather than filling the space with expensive individual desks, we designed a modular benching system that maximized both efficiency and style. Each custom 4ft by 8ft bench was engineered to accommodate four workstations while maintaining clean lines and professional aesthetics through integrated wire management, durable laminate surfaces, and elegant loop legs.
The most creative breakthrough came in solving the power distribution challenge. Instead of costly floor coring that would have consumed a significant portion of the budget, we developed a wall-mounted power pole system that became a distinctive design feature. Each pole was painted in vibrant colors that reflected ZestFinance's dynamic culture, transforming a practical necessity into an artistic statement. This approach allowed us to deliver a sophisticated, modern workspace that felt both professional and playful—perfectly capturing the essence of a tech company that brings Google-caliber innovation to financial services.
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