Murtha Cullina Law Office
Project Stats
- Location
Boston, Massachusetts
- Size
13,000 SF
- Role
Architect
- Market
- Expertise
Cutting-edge hospitality
For its new office in Boston, Massachusetts, Murtha Cullina law office (now Harris Beach Murtha) wanted a welcoming, modern workplace that integrates a cutting-edge aesthetic and a playful, industrial flair. The 13,000-square-foot single-floor suite at 33 Arch Street, a noted contemporary high-rise in Downtown Boston, includes a dramatically exposed steel truss in its elegant board room.
Making room for the old and new
To begin the design process, the team visited the Murtha Cullina office in Hartford, Connecticut to better understand the firm’s culture and workflow. Visioning sessions revealed an overall goal to preserve the existing brand and aesthetic, while nudging it toward a modern, industrial feel.
Titan of industry
The building’s dramatic diagonal truss cutting across the boardroom window — visible from the reception area — inspired the design’s industrial feel. Exposed vertical steel columns in other perimeter rooms reinforce the aesthetic. The material and finish palette lean on neutral hues with dark accents and pops of color underscoring the impact and excitement of exposed structural steel.
These elements allude to the firm’s specialty in construction law while also firmly rooting an industrial aesthetic into the brand identity, all communicated to visiting clients. The design reinforces the concept elsewhere with memorable lighting fixtures in matte black finishes and concrete-look porcelain tile flooring in reception zones.
Near the reception area and meeting rooms — and defined by a fully retractable glass wall — the workplace kitchen serves as the centerpiece of the office, offering glimpses into the firm’s brand culture. The exposed ceiling cutout above the island countertop element reinforces the new industrial side of the brand identity, while this gathering spot — surrounded by tables, chairs, and an inset seating nook with integrated power — emphasize its people-first culture.
