NIKE's new york headquarters makes a personal mark on the city

the six-level, 150,000-square-foot space is not the only aspect of NIKE’s new york headquarters that makes its design impressive. the interior’s impeccable renovation, spearheaded by WSDIA and STUDIOS architecture, is filled with custom features that emphasize the company’s long and notable history. the space includes an indoor basketball court, workspaces, VIP and workout spaces, a NIKE heritage inspired VW van, and a 90-foot, planted swoosh on the rooftop terrace.

the location plays a key role in the overall design concept. WSDIA, the company responsible for the space’s wayfinding, signage, and branding features, described the project’s design foundation: ‘the main directive — architecturally and graphically — was to highlight the synergy between new york city and NIKE, by examining sport themed floors through the lens of NYC… both are bold, vibrant and constantly breaking new ground.’

the space pays homage to the city’s many extraordinary athletes, including areas that feature michael jordan and derek jeter. many aspects of the space also evoke memories of the company’s early years. the interior includes a 30-foot bark wall to highlight NIKE’s oregon origins and an orange VW van sits prominently at the top the stairs — resembling the van used by bill bowerman and phil knight to distribute their first pairs of NIKE shoes.

STUDIOS architecture’s open plan makes for a more free-spirited, collaborative work environment. at the same time, the company has also collaborated with the surrounding city on projects, such as the stanton street courts, to foster community growth and wellness. the new headquarters will continue this mission.

the 4,000-square-foot indoor basketball court will not only be used by visiting NIKE-sponsored athletes, like lebron james, but also local high school teams and community partners. a 90-foot NIKE ‘swoosh’ sits prominently on the headquarter’s roof, emphasizing the company’s presence in both the international sports world and the NYC community.