The so-called third sector is also turning to design as a strategic value to shape the right perception of its activities. The transformation of a workspace for a company engaged in charitable fundraising aimed to create an environment that reflected its innovative and responsible vision—one that merges creativity, sustainability, and functionality.
Founded with the intention of applying the smartest business practices to the world of philanthropy, Pallotta TeamWorks faced a significant challenge: bringing its growing team together in a new, inspiring headquarters while staying within a strict budget of just $40 per square foot.
The company chose to renovate a 47,000-square-foot warehouse, and architect Clive Wilkinson devised sustainable solutions to reduce costs related to air conditioning and lighting. Taking advantage of Southern California’s favorable climate, a partially conditioned system was designed to minimize the use of traditional HVAC. This included the creation of “Breathing Islands,” climate-controlled zones limited to the areas where employees spent the most time.
The design was also inspired by the mobile tent cities used by the organization during fundraising events, incorporating suspended white tents that serve as air diffusers and give the space a distinctive character. The color palette—playing with dark blue, white, and vibrant orange—was carefully curated to distinguish public zones from more private ones, creating a visual rhythm that enhances interaction and spatial orientation.
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