"[We wanted] to create a classic modernist aesthetic that responded to Swiss Re's need to blend a minimalist European environment with the warmth of an American interior," said Project Designer Stephen Beacham, who worked on the design team along with Design Director Donald Brinkmann, Project Director Gilbert R. Oberfield and Project Principal Robin Klehr Avia. "[In addition to stone], the interior featured other materials, including beechwood veneer, stainless steel, white plastered walls and glass -- including glass block European furniture."
In regards to the stone palette, a selection of Burlington stone as well as Porto Beige limestone and Calacatta Oro marble were chosen for the project. "The Broughton Moor and Burlington Stone were selected for their color and consistency in their minimal consistency of patterning," said Beacham. "The Porto Beige was selected based on its color, consistency and hardness. The Calacatta Oro was selected as an accent stone because of its warmth and sophistication of graining." The architect explained that the stones were selected over a nine-month period, which involved a trip to the quarries near Manchester, England.