The Architecture of Culture - AF | New York : AF

How can architecture affect the culture of work? That was the question at AF | New York’s Project 6 as we discussed the early days of WeWork.

We shared ideas, incredible bento boxes and more than a few rounds of virgin cocktails (well, it was a daytime event). But what everyone came to find out was how WeWork came out of seemingly nowhere and grew to have 250,000 members in 72 cities with a $20 billion valuation.

Paul Petrunia, the founder of Archinect, led the discussion. He introduced Miguel McKelvey, Co-Founder and Chief Culture Officer at WeWork, who told his story of getting one of the most exciting and challenging workspaces in New York off the ground.

“If we put people in a new space, they can change.”

Miguel started with his personal experiences that lit the match and would one day lead him to do the impossible: disrupt the modern work culture for an entire generation. He wanted to challenge how emerging entrepreneurs and young professionals imagined a workplace – not just in America, but worldwide.

Back then, Miguel was “in Brooklyn, doing cool stuff with cool people.” He wanted to take the authentic, organic startup energy and spirit from the old warehouses that surrounded him and bring this to the outside world. But while the warehouse setting looked the part, there were practical issues with ventilation and lighting. What he really wanted was a space for interaction and sharing ideas.

In 2010, they launched the first WeWork in New York. Although shared office spaces already existed, most of these were designed around outdated concepts and were several steps behind what was happening in the entrepreneurial community. Four white walls, fluorescent lighting, traditional office furniture and separated cubicles were no longer working for this new collaborative approach.

These days, if you go to any WeWork, you’ll probably see exposed brick, iron columns and Edison bulbs. Nitro Cold Brew on tap and open plan concepts. The chance to interact with others in all sorts of industries to promote creative growth – and of course, gin and juice on Fridays.

It was also interesting to hear Miguel’s insights on how the architecture of an existing neighborhood and culture influence WeWork’s approach. For example, the common area in WeWork Japan is packed at noon because everyone takes their lunch break at the exact same time. WeWork spotted this trend and tweaked the design to provide enough seating for rush hour.

Miguel left us with this final thought: “If we put people in a new space, they can change.” When he said that, it really struck a chord. It makes sense. WeWork’s architecture isn’t just schematics. It changes how we feel, how we communicate and how we get things done. Throughout different cultures all over the world, WeWork has succeeded. And because of the smart architecture, the people followed.

Thanks to our sponsors GRAFF, Geberit, Home Refinements, Kaldeweiand Wetstyle. And thanks to the catering team – those bento boxes sure were good.