John A. Martin & Associates
Los Angeles, CA
Design: StudioMMD
Photographer: Paul Vu
Headquartered in downtown LA, John A. Martin & Associates (aka JAMA) is one of the world's largest privately-owned structural engineering firms. Known for delivering exceptional design solutions to its clients, JAMA is committed to progressing structural advancement, leading structural research through their in-house research and development team, and implementation in projects of all volumes and complexities.
JAMA enlisted StudioMMD and Pivot for their LA headquarters to create a space that captures their company ethos and the innovative work they do. The character of the workplace is a spirited combination of industrial play and corporate casual, with open, exposed ceilings making the space feel bright and airy, and vibrant pops of color in both paint and materials.
The work areas are a customized hybrid of Herman Miller Canvas with height-adjustable tables, including some with extended work surfaces to accommodate work with large-format plans and drawings. Custom gallery panels delineate the workstations, designed by Pivot’s industrial design collaborator-partner, MTRL. Throughout the office, a series of vignettes featuring classic Herman Miller pieces nod to timeless design and effortless comfort.
At the heart of the space is a custom wood communal table, designed by MTRL in collaboration with JAMA. The large table, paired with Magis seating, is a hub for informal meetings and gatherings among both employees and clients. As engineers familiar with a wide range of materials, JAMA proposed the use of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) for the custom table and sourced the material from their trusted vendor partner. It was a truly rewarding design collaboration.
