As an advertising and design agency, Shine United needed a workplace that reflected both their aesthetic and the way they work – a professional finish for occasional client meetings balanced with a comfortable, casual roughness to promote creativity and encourage socializing and impromptu connections.

They chose a building with a long history in Madison, and went about the renovation with the goal of preserving as much of the building’s ‘bones’ as possible. Exterior refinements were minor – just enough to give it a fresh face – while the interior systems and partitions were completely gutted. The beautiful concrete floors and industrial steel columns that remained provided inspiration for everything that came after. Interior finishes are simple with a rugged feel – plywood, metal, concrete and recycled wood – providing a neutral background palette that allows the people and work occupying the space to shine.