Mexican beverage brand Electrolit has added a new U.S. headquarters in Houston courtesy of Schaum Architects, Mexican architect Luis Aldrete, and local architect Jesús Vassallo. Located inside an industrial Spanish Revival structure on the banks of Buffalo Bayou, the contemporary office is designed at the intersection of Mexican and Texan culture while evoking relaxed sophistication reminiscent of Mexican residential design. Existing concrete is softened with numerous wood boxes housing lounges, private offices, and meeting rooms while injecting a sculptural and proportional presence across the interior as well. “Wood is both soothing and elegant,” says architect Troy Schaum. “The work for this growing company is very intense and dynamic. We wanted to create a space that felt grounded and calm.”
A wooden staircase heralds visitors in the entry foyer, which unfolds into a double-height lounge outfitted with soft seating and a wood-clad wall that sheaths the kitchen. Stairs link to a mezzanine where the CEO’s office is installed beside a meeting room overlooking the office. Rows of workstations occupy the rear of the space alongside glass-block windows supplemented by existing skylights. Wood-clad phone booths and custom millwork further punctuate the office along with custom furniture that infuses warmth and intimacy. “The design concept also produces a great variety of individual work and collaboration spaces,” Schaum adds. “I love visiting the space and seeing all the ways people are being both social at one moment and focused in another.”
