DB&B | Burson’s Beijing workplace translates the language of communication into a physical environment. Designed for a global agency that helps organisations navigate reputation, influence and public perception, the workplace draws upon themes of visibility, connection and exchange to shape the spatial experience.
DB&B | The design features a more fluid and adaptable environment, reflecting the fast-moving nature of contemporary communications practice. Geometric forms, transparent boundaries and carefully framed sightlines create a sense of openness throughout the workplace, while Burson’s signature yellow acts as a visual thread that links key destinations across the floorplate.
Rather than relying solely on branding, the design expresses Burson’s identity through the way people interact with the space, creating an environment that supports dialogue, collaboration and the constant flow of ideas.
A flexible setting designed to support spontaneous discussions and team engagement.
Defined by Identity
The reception establishes the design language from the moment visitors arrive. Angular architectural forms intersect with illuminated branding elements to create a composition that feels deliberate and dynamic, echoing the exchange of perspectives that defines Burson’s work.
A bold yellow volume introduces a sense of movement within the otherwise restrained material palette. Framed by textured finishes and clean-lined detailing, the space balances professionalism with energy, creating an arrival experience that is both memorable and unmistakably Burson. Natural light cascades through the space, energising the vibrant palette and infusing warmth into every corner.
Positioned adjacent to the reception, the collaboration zone functions as a visual workshop where ideas can be developed in real time. Writable surfaces transform walls into working tools, encouraging brainstorming sessions, strategic mapping and spontaneous problem-solving. The open arrangement blurs the boundary between circulation and collaboration, allowing knowledge-sharing to become part of the everyday workplace experience.
A hospitality-inspired destination where brand identity, flexibility and everyday workplace experiences converge.
The Common Ground
At the heart of the workplace, the lounge reinterprets the traditional client waiting area as a social hub. Inspired by hospitality environments, the space accommodates everything from informal discussions and team gatherings to client engagements and events.
A custom feature column carrying the Burson “B” serves as both a branding element and a spatial anchor within the open plan. Surrounding it, flexible seating arrangements encourage different modes of interaction, while warm timber finishes soften the workplace and introduce a more welcoming atmosphere.
The result is a space that supports relationship-building as naturally as it supports day-to-day work.
Designed for collective thinking, this spacious setting supports presentations, workshops and strategic planning.
Strategic Conversations
The meeting suite was conceived as a series of communication environments rather than conventional boardrooms. Configured to support everything from focused client discussions to larger workshops, each room incorporates writable surfaces, integrated technology and acoustic treatments that facilitate both collaboration and concentration. Burson’s signature yellow appears selectively within lighting and feature elements, providing moments of visual energy without overwhelming the working environment.
Everyday Performance
While collaboration remains central to the workplace, equal consideration was given to individual productivity. Workstations are organised to maximise visibility and connectivity while planter-lined dividers provide subtle separation between teams. The integration of greenery softens the architectural language and introduces a more comfortable working atmosphere, creating a balance between openness and focus.
For Burson, communication is ultimately about shaping understanding and building connections. The workplace translates these principles into a spatial experience through openness, flexibility and carefully integrated brand expression. More than a branded office, it is an environment designed to support the conversations, collaborations and ideas that define Burson’s work.
Project: Burson
Location: Beijing, China
Project Size: 6,700 sqft
Design Studio: DB&B
Photo Credit: Vitus Lau
Website: dbb.com
