Geometry: the Angle

Clean, sharp, and definitive, angles formed by lighting elements, glass, veneers, and other mediums define space, direct focus, spark interest, add a dynamic, enhance aesthetics, and provide a service in IA designs.

Confidential Client, Atlanta.  Photography © Eric Laignel.

Confidential Client, Atlanta. Photography © Eric Laignel.

A narrow light embedded in the ceiling and reflected in the finish of the floor runs from reception to the servery, makes a right angle, continues to the wall, and descends to the floor.


Confidential Client, Palo Alto, CA. Photography © Jasper Sanidad.

Confidential Client, Palo Alto, CA. Photography © Jasper Sanidad.

A quadrilateral-shaped light fixture suspended from the ceiling adds interest.


Virgin Cruises Headquarters,    Plantation, Florida. Photography © Robin Hill.

Virgin Cruises Headquarters, Plantation, Florida. Photography © Robin Hill.

Inspired by the lines and angles of a ship and accented with embedded light, the reception desk at Virgin Cruises Headquarters extends the length of the floor then turns and continues into the café.


Confidential Client, Chcago. Photography © Hall + Merrick.

Confidential Client, Chcago. Steve Hall © Hall + Merrick.

Thin embedded lights running the length of the ceiling echo the multiple angles of the striking reception desk and glass fins on the left.


The John Buck Company Conference Center. Chicago. Photography © Tom Harris.

The John Buck Company Conference Center. Chicago. Photography © Tom Harris.

A triangular stretch-fabric LED backlit “skylight” enhances the atmosphere at The John Buck Company Conference Center.


The John Buck Company Conference Center. Chicago. Photography © Tom Harris.

The conference center design uses high-end finishes and furniture to reflect the signature, angular geometry of the building lobby.


CNA Headquarters, Chicago. Photography © Tom Harris.

CNA Headquarters, Chicago. Photography © Tom Harris.

A slanted glass wall, with a custom pattern inspired by the slant of the CNA logo, creates a striking floor-to-ceiling quadrilateral.


Red Hat Headquarters, Raleigh, NC. Photography ©  Eric Laignel.

Red Hat Headquarters, Raleigh, NC. Photography © Eric Laignel.

Descending into triangles, canopies provide shade for an outdoor amenity at Red Hat.



Want to see more?

Glass and hard angles seem to go hand-in-hand. Take a look at the gallery of images we like to call "Glass: Beyond the Obvious." 



IA is a global firm of architects, designers, strategists, and specialists. We focus exclusively on environments through the lens of interior architecture—a radical idea in 1984, when IA was founded. We are highly connected agents of change, committed to creativity, innovation, growth, and community.




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View this gallery of images that illustrate how angles can be used to make a statement in the workplace.

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