The new office building is coming on at a pace, ceiling is done the floor is done and its all coming together, not like London builders...
I got a brilliant book on my latest trip to NY called wikinomics - how mass collaboration changes everything, my guess is if you're reading this you're probably half way there but it is an inspiring read, and in the spirit of the book here are our first draft floorplans for the building...
I can't believe its 3.00 am and I'm sat typing this, but then its one way of dealing with jet lag. I hope I get some sleep as I'm having some leaving do's this week, tomorrow night with 4 close mates and then a about 100 or so people from music and the ad industry on Friday (what a combination that will be - will there be enough room for the egos) and a family and friends picnic on Hampstead Heath on Sunday. I really should get some sleep.
I've just watched the first two episodes of the new BBC (imported from NBC) series and it is quite simply amazing, like a hollywood blockbuster in an hour every week. Sky plus series linked...
The June 2007 issue of Fast Company was created at Ground Zero at 7 World Trade Centre (Center?) not only is the site an unusual place full of morbid curiosity it is also one of the first gold-level green-certified offices in New York. Robert Safian the editor describes not only the new office but the mag's unique and compelling view that "business serves a purpose in our world that goes beyond dollars and cents, and that a responsible and sustainable enterprise can be a vehicle for progress". A refreshing take on the world, so when the same editor invites readers "if you find yourself in New York and want to take a look at our space take a look" how could I refuse. A few hours ago I did just that, so in the spirit of Fast Company here's my hot off the press view from and within a poignant site.
The first thing that struck me was the lift (elevator) until now lifts come to you you when you press an up or down button then you get in and select a floor. Not here, you punch in the floor you're going to and the appropriate lift comes to you based on the floor you're going to, it's quicker, uses less energy and means you need no buttons inside the lift other than close doors and hold doors. Simple, obvious, great idea.
The whole place has a very modern and open feel and it has an aura of collaboration and creativity - god I sound like Gilly whats her name on wine, lots of open space few vertical walls, everyone I meet seems very open and friendly, could it be that their mood is effected by the interior design?
The bit that blows my mind is the wall that has been built for everyone to see the next issue of the magazine being created in real time. It looks like lots of pages stuck on a wall but on closer inspection it is the actual digital files of every single page. Can you get more open? I ask Elise my friendly guide if can I take a picture "no problem", nobody bats an eyelid at this strangle bloke snapping away.
I love the idea of the banks of computers against the walls where people can be and hopefully when at their desks there is more human interaction and less constant engagement with machines. I tried this same idea with a company I founded back in 2000 and it worked a treat.
The square shaped floorplan inspired Fast Company to name their offices after Monoply, the US version naturally, lovely touch
The reception, communal spaces and views are spectacular.
Then unavoidably I have to look at the gaping scar left 6 yrs ago in a moment of human madness.
So hats off to Fast Company for having a wonderful, modern green office, for being open & inviting people in and beginning the process of rebirth at 7 World Trade Centre.
Which band or artist which is no longer performing or alive would you have loved to have seen?
Submitted by Rev Stan.
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