When banking giant Capital One asked Studio O+A to create an inviting and playful collaborative environment in San Francisco, it was hoping to infuse the intensive brainstorming sessions of its online design division with big inspiration.

In the massive warehouse-like space, O+A turned to its signature palette of tailored materials and vibrant hues to delineate the various spaces, from meeting rooms and workstations to open breakout areas. Bright yellow, lime green, various shades of blue and, surprisingly, hot pink accents resonate against white and grey, while a central light shaft and large windows enhance the open-concept atmosphere. Wall-mounted bike racks form part of the decor, while reading cubbies and a napping nook, both upholstered in Paul Smith plaid, promote life-work balance.

A functional and decorative element, sound-absorbing Tectum panels hang from the ceiling. Likewise, an eye-catching bright yellow staircase joins the two levels, which comprise 325 square metres. A platform equipped with upholstered mats provides casual seating under the stairs, while a glass-enclosed phone room is nestled under the highest point. Studio O+A explains that “creating an experience” was the driving force behind its choices – and, “it was nice to have a client who was open to hot pink,” says designer Alma Lopez.

In Mexico City, Space Arquitectura developed a similar approach for the offices of insurance provider Grupo CP. Throughout three floors – one for each area of the company’s specialization (city, health and automotive) – colours range from the deep red of the reception desk and oversized tubular lighting fixtures, to a playful mix of spring green, yellow, orange, purple and several variants of blue and grey for furnishings, floor coverings and structural elements.

Pentágono Estudio, an interdisciplinary design firm, worked with the architects to create specialized furniture and graphics. Various artworks – including string art and a wall mural that pays homage to Indy car racing – accent the hallways, which connect a combination of open-concept work spaces with a wide mix of conference rooms, informal meeting lounges, technology bays and training areas.

Low VOC materials and energy efficient lighting options were selected to adhere with the building’s Gold LEED requirements, while plants – including a green wall – provide a nod to the property’s eco-friendly status. With floor space totalling more than 4,700 square metres, the expansive, visually captivating corporate headquarters proves that insurance brokers can have fun, too.