When Marsh, Rickard & Bryan, a prominent personal injury law firm in Birmingham, Alabama, decided it was time to rethink their workspace, they sought an environment that would not only meet their growing needs but also reflect the firm’s evolving culture and work processes. Having spent nearly two decades in a traditional layout consisting of private offices flanking long hallways, the firm recognized the need for a change—a move towards a more open, collaborative space that could create more synergy and serve as a tool for recruiting new talent
"Having been in our previous location for 18 years, it became clear that we were outgrowing the space,” explains Paul Brewer, Director for Trial and Litigation Technology for Marsh, Rickard & Bryan. “The motivation behind moving was about embracing a more modern, open concept that would better support our growth and how we wanted to work."
Partnering with the A+D firm KPS Group, contract furnishings dealer Interior Elements, and Allsteel, the law firm successfully met its goals while also completing the project ahead of schedule. Their new office, housed in an industrial building with its own storied history, was a blank canvas that allowed the team to design a space that married warm, modern aesthetics with the more traditional aspects inherent in a law firm. The design strategy focused on creating a functional and inviting environment, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and connectivity.
The new office layout is a significant departure from the firm’s previous space. Gone are the isolated offices that defined the old space. In their place, an open-plan design features sophisticated workstations with wood grain worksurfaces for paralegals and support staff strategically placed near attorney offices to foster collaboration. Natural light floods the office thanks to more open spaces, glass-fronted conference rooms, and the frosted glass panels of the workstations that allow light to filter throughout the entire floor. This thoughtful use of natural light has transformed the work environment, making it more energizing and appealing for both staff and clients.
Central to the new design is a hospitality and collaboration area affectionately known as the Chum Lounge. This space, equipped with comfortable soft seating, serves as a gathering spot for work-related discussions and casual interactions. It’s where the firm’s attorneys and staff come together to brainstorm, share ideas, and connect on a personal level. The addition of this sophisticated lounge space, complete with a bar area, also provides an ideal setting for after-hours social events and client meetings.
Other collaborative settings within the office include conference rooms and additional lounge areas for more informal meetings. Says Brewer, “We wanted a space that brought everyone closer together so we could have more face-to-face interaction. Now, with the open design, our team is able to collaborate more effectively, which has been a huge benefit."
Furniture selection played a critical role in bringing the new office to life. Paralegal and administrative staff who previously had private offices are now situated in open areas but remain well-supported with height-adjustable desks and personal storage towers. And, while moving from private offices to an open plan initially was an adjustment, team members now appreciate the increased connectedness.
For the common areas, the design team chose modern yet inviting pieces that blend seamlessly with the building’s architectural elements, incorporating deep colors and rich textiles that add warmth and a sense of comfort. These choices help create an environment that feels welcoming to both clients and employees.
"Clients walk into our new office and are just blown away,” shares Brewer. “They feel welcomed the moment they step in. That was really important to us, to create an environment where clients feel at ease."
The new space not only meets the firm's practical needs and exceeds clients' expectations but also serves as a powerful tool for recruitment. Young lawyers and potential recruits are immediately struck by the inviting atmosphere, which stands in stark contrast to the more formal, traditional law offices they might be accustomed to. This fresh design approach reflects the firm’s forward-thinking culture in creating more opportunities to foster collaboration and connection between team members and clients.
Says Brewer, “We really leaned on KPS Group, Interior Elements, and Allsteel to bring our vision to life, and they did just that. Every element—the layout, the furniture—had a purpose, and it all came together seamlessly."
INSTALLATION DETAILS
Location
Birmingham, AL
17,000 SF
Partnerships
KPS Group
Interior Elements
Hallmark Builders
Product Solutions
Terrace Workstations
Approach Storage
Silea Desks
Calm Lounge Seating
Briefing Conference
Structure Tables
Svelte Seating