Bay-area company Torani, privately held by the same family since 1925, has never had a layoff. A sense of family, inclusiveness, and wellbeing is fundamental to its culture and the design of its new headquarters.

The office occupies a portion of Torani’s massive new production facility in an industrial building. A double-height lobby welcomes visitors, who are treated to colorful Torani drinks at a massive branded two-story “bottle wall.” Guests can connect with others in abundant natural light from the glass façade and skylights.

Layered design elements throughout celebrate Torani’s history and beverage products. Bubbles, representing sparking water mixed with Torani syrups, are etched on glass around the lobby. The Café décor features antique cement tiles and blown-glass light fixtures, emphasizing the family’s Italian heritage. A timeline along a corridor traces the Torre family’s inspiring journey to Bay Area entrepreneurship.

Along a main axis, employees come together in small neighborhoods, replacing the silos of their former location. Multiple spaces encourage staff to gather. Care of the “family” is evident throughout the design. Pictures of every staff member line the wall opening to the café.

Connecting manufacturing staff and headquarters staff was a key goal. The café, lockers, and labs are located near each other to facilitate movement in and out of manufacturing lines and into office space through an entryway leading to the café.

A “secret” prohibition-era inspired speakeasy, displays artifacts from Torani’s beginnings, and provides an element of mystery. The workspace offers abundant natural light, enjoyable views, and intuitive wayfinding.

Community outreach is fundamental to Torani’s core values. The mezzanine features gathering spaces where customers, clients, and school children enjoy tours and tastings with impressive views from windows overlooking the vast manufacturing and bottling facility. To experience Torani’s headquarters is a delight for all the senses.

Photography: Garrett Rowland