Working · New York, USA

Shaping an Office with Colour and Modularity

At Sibling Rivalry's headquarters, USM modular furniture doesn't just furnish the space, it shapes it. Co-founder Joe Wright, a self-confessed “frustrated architect”, used the system to turn an open floor into an office with flexible zones.

For Sibling Rivalry, creativity extends beyond the screen. The New York-based creative studio has built its identity around collaboration and experimentation – qualities reflected in its office.

From rivals to partners

Founded in 2011 by Joe Wright and Mikon van Gastel, Sibling Rivalry grew from a decade-long friendship that began with healthy competition. After Wright moved to the US, the pair found themselves vying for many of the same projects. Their friendly rivalry soon became a creative partnership, and the studio’s name followed naturally. Today, its clients include Google, Apple, HPE, Paramount and National Geographic Society.

When the company moved into new space in 2021, Wright designed the interior himself. As a self-confessed “frustrated architect” with a passion for interiors, architecture and minimalism, he welcomed the opportunity to create something physical after years of working primarily on screen.

“What’s interesting about USM modular furniture is that it’s almost architectural.”

“ Joe Wright

Architecture without walls

The design began with USM Haller. In the open-plan office, Wright used the modular system not simply as furniture, but as a way of shaping the architecture of the space. The units create distinct zones while maintaining a sense of openness, dividing the floor plan without the need for fixed walls.

Colours with purpose

Wright selected yellow for creative areas, blue for workspaces, and beige to transition between the areas. He combined the metal USM Haller units with fabric, and wood, including a substantial oak dining table, bringing warmth to the clean-lined interior.

Built to last, made to adapt

The furniture is designed to adapt to the team, with some of the USM Haller units occasionally doubling as standing desks. For Wright, that flexibility reflects the ethos of Sibling Rivalry itself: “It’s thoughtful. It’s not flashy. It’s flexible rather than fixed. And it’s built to last.”