Movement in Balance
New Balance is a global sportswear brand rooted in Boston, renowned for its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation and independent thinking. Guided by its “Fearlessly Independent” philosophy, the brand continues to celebrate individuality through sport. Building on this identity, DB&B China was appointed to design and build New Balance’s two-storey office in Shanghai, creating a workplace that reflects the brand’s sporting heritage and collaborative culture.
Inspired by New Balance’s sporting heritage and Shanghai’s vibrant character, the design brings movement, creativity and connection into the workplace. Athletic track lines, local cultural references and signature red accents establish a distinctive visual language. Across two floors, flexible work settings, social spaces and brand experiences come together to support collaboration, well being and everyday productivity.
A Bold First Step
The reception introduces New Balance’s identity through a contemporary, brand-led arrival experience. Angular ceiling details, linear lighting and a restrained material palette create a sense of movement, while signature red branding establishes a confident focal point. Integrated planting and tiered seating soften the architectural setting, balancing the brand’s energetic character with a welcoming atmosphere.
Angular lighting, signature branding and integrated greenery create a distinctive first impression.
A Pause Between Moments
An open communal hub offers a refreshing change of pace, bringing together shared tables, greenery and comfortable seating. Warm finishes and an exposed ceiling introduce a relaxed, contemporary character, while the flexible arrangement accommodates informal discussions, individual breaks and spontaneous gatherings. The result is an inviting social setting within the wider workplace.
Shared tables and integrated greenery create an open, welcoming setting for informal interaction.
The dining area provides a comfortable setting for shared meals and everyday conversations. Communal tables, upholstered booth seating and a textured tiled feature wall introduce warmth and character, while the open arrangement accommodates both small groups and larger gatherings. Designed for daily use, the space encourages employees to connect in a relaxed environment.
Communal tables, comfortable seating and textured finishes create an inviting space for dining and connection.
Where Work Meets Play
Bringing New Balance’s sporting spirit into everyday work life, the social area features a mini golf setting that encourages playful interaction and informal connection. Open sight lines, greenery and relaxed seating create an inviting environment where employees can take a break, recharge or engage with colleagues beyond their desks.
A mini golf feature introduces play and movement into the workplace, encouraging connection beyond daily routines.
A Legacy in Motion
The milestone wall traces New Balance’s evolution through a curated display of significant moments, achievements and product innovations. Arranged along the circulation route, the timeline transforms the brand’s history into an engaging visual journey. It celebrates the craftsmanship and independent spirit that have shaped New Balance while connecting its heritage with the workplace of today.
A curated timeline celebrates New Balance’s milestones, heritage and continuing commitment to innovation.
A striking rooster installation crafted from New Balance shoes introduces an unexpected artistic expression into the workplace. Set against the words “Running Since 1906”, the feature transforms familiar products into a memorable celebration of the brand’s heritage. Its imaginative composition brings together craftsmanship, sporting identity and creative storytelling.
A rooster crafted from shoes offers a playful interpretation of New Balance’s heritage and creative spirit.
New Balance’s brand identity is woven into the interior through a prominent mission statement and illuminated product displays. The combination of typography, curated merchandise and warm display lighting creates a purposeful visual experience, connecting employees and visitors with the brand’s values, craftsmanship and sporting heritage.
An integrated mission statement and illuminated product displays bring New Balance’s identity into the workplace.
Flexibility in Every Form
Designed to accommodate different meeting requirements, the space incorporates an operable partition that allows rooms to function independently or combine for larger gatherings. Integrated presentation technology and adaptable layouts support discussions, workshops and team presentations, providing the flexibility to respond to changing needs while making efficient use of the available space.
A contemporary boardroom with integrated presentation technology provides a composed setting for formal discussions.
An operable partition allows the meeting space to expand for larger presentations and team gatherings.
A series of sports-themed meeting rooms brings New Balance’s athletic identity into everyday collaboration. Football-inspired lighting, basketball references and sports-court graphics give each room a distinctive character. Combined with contemporary furnishings and presentation facilities, these creative details establish engaging environments for discussions, brainstorming and team meetings.
Football- and basketball-inspired pendant lighting and sporting details bring a playful character to the meeting rooms.
Court-inspired flooring and integrated brand displays create distinctive settings for collaboration and discussion.
A Natural Balance
The collaboration zone brings together informal seating, open discussion settings and biophilic elements to encourage interaction beyond conventional meeting rooms. A striking greenery wall featuring New Balance shoe imagery forms a distinctive focal point, combining brand storytelling with natural textures. Together, these elements create an inviting environment for spontaneous conversations, creative exchange and moments of respite.
Relaxed seating and open discussion areas provide flexible settings for everyday collaboration.
New Balance shoe imagery emerges from a lush greenery wall, uniting sporting identity with biophilic design.
Inspired by Movement
The open workspace combines practical planning with a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Organised workstations, neutral finishes and integrated planting create a comfortable environment for focused work, while product display shelving and subtle red accents reinforce New Balance’s identity. The open arrangement supports everyday productivity while maintaining visual connectivity across the office.
An open workstation setting combines functional planning, greenery and subtle brand details for everyday productivity.
Showcasing the Spirit of Innovation
The product display area presents New Balance’s collections within a contemporary, showroom-inspired environment. Illuminated shelving, curated merchandise and prominent branding celebrate the company’s sporting heritage and craftsmanship. Designed for product presentations and visitor engagement, the space connects the workplace with the brand’s evolving collections and commitment to innovation.
Prominent New Balance branding introduces a dedicated space for product presentation and brand engagement.
New Balance Shanghai brings sporting heritage and local character together in a workplace designed for movement, connection and creativity. From playful social spaces and sports-inspired meeting rooms to curated brand experiences, each area reflects the company’s independent spirit. The result is a contemporary workplace that balances productivity with employee well being while celebrating New Balance’s identity and Shanghai’s vibrant energy.
