Redefining office design at the iconic Chrysler Building

When the team at Ted Moudis Associates moved their office to the iconic Chrysler Building in New York City, they saw an opportunity to redefine the work environment from the ground up. Scheduled to be featured at the TV show America ByDesign, this project set out to create a space that reflected their design philosophy – experiential, welcoming and sophisticated. A crucial element in realising this vision was the choice of flooring.

“Relocating to the Chrysler Building allowed us to reimagine our work environment from scratch,” says Jeff Knoll, Studio Design Principal. “Our goal was to design an amenity-rich environment that felt more like a destination rather than just an office.” 

Blending history with modern design

The Chrysler Building’s Art Deco heritage significantly influenced the design of the new office, with subtle references to the building’s history appearing throughout the space. “We aimed to blend modern design elements with historical references, and the flooring helped bridge these eras,” says Jeff. “The natural texture and tones of the STEHAG 3.0 XL provided a contemporary, yet timeless foundation, complementing the building’s rich history without overpowering it.”

As an architecture firm, the team understood the importance of every design element, and flooring was no exception. For Jeff, the challenge was to find a material that not only looked stunning but also provided durability. “For us, it was essential that the flooring set the tone for the space, creating a seamless connection between different areas, while maintaining durability,” says Jeff. “Bjelin’s Woodura Planks provided the perfect blend of visual appeal and practicality, becoming a key element in delivering the immersive experience we envisioned for the office.”

Balancing aesthetics and functionality

Ted Moudis Associates wanted their new office to feel both luxurious and liveable. “The flooring stood out for its combination of beauty and resilience. It provides the high-end appearance of natural wood with superior durability thanks to the Woodura technology, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.”

In choosing the colour and design of the flooring, the team selected Earth Grey for its harmonious tone. “The Earth Grey colour offered the perfect neutral base, harmonizing with our material palette of warm woods, textiles and metal accents.” The XL planks, which reduce the number of seams in the flooring, added a sense of expansiveness and fluidity throughout the office, making it feel larger and more cohesive.

Embracing nature and authenticity

One of the standout features of the flooring was its Nature grading. Jeff explains: “The subtle variations and occasional knots give the space character, creating a sense of warmth and authenticity that resonates with our goal to make the office feel inviting and comfortable. These organic elements connect the space to nature, supporting our biophilic design approach and enhancing the overall ambience.”

The decision to opt for the pro matt finish also proved to be a key one. “Visually, it complements our goal of creating a soft, welcoming environment, avoiding the harsh reflections of glossier finishes,” says Jeff. “From a maintenance standpoint, it reduces the visibility of scratches and smudges, ensuring that the flooring maintains its beautiful appearance with minimal upkeep – essential in a high-use office environment.”

A memorable design journey

The office’s design was recently featured on America ByDesign, a TV show that highlights exceptional architectural projects. “We hope this will be a rewarding experience and a testament to the thought and care we put into every design decision,” says Jeff. “It should also afford us the ability to showcase how Bjelin’s flooring contributed to the overall design narrative, offering both aesthetic value and sustainable innovation.”

The new office has transformed from a place of work into a space where employees genuinely enjoy spending time. “The response from our team has been overwhelmingly positive,” Jeff says. “Staff appreciate the sense of comfort and warmth the flooring adds to the space, contributing to a feeling of home. Functionally, the durability of the hardened wood has proven essential, especially in high-traffic areas like the café and collaboration zones.”

For Jeff and his team, the new office is not just a workspace; it’s a reflection of their values and vision – one where thoughtful design, innovative materials and sustainability come together seamlessly.