Sandbox Films

New York–based studio Civilian oversaw the interior design for the offices of award-winning documentary production company Sandbox Films. Located in a landmarked 1920s neo-gothic skyscraper in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, the 4,200-square-foot space includes a central reception area and bar, conference space, private and open offices, production and editing suites, custom and vintage furnishings, and a state-of-the-art private screening room. Inspired by their clients’ love of storytelling, the design draws from the grandeur of early 20th-century European cinemas, the architectural color gestures of Danish modernist Poul Henningsen, and the interwar New York evoked by the Broadway address. The goal was to unite the creative and technical sides of filmmaking under one roof, supporting an active schedule of screenings, events, and residencies. A rich material and color palette shapes an inviting workplace that promotes community and cultural exchange. Reception A round, stone-topped bar anchors the central reception, serving as a pantry by day and an events bar by night. Rows of marquee lights line existing beams, creating an illuminated canopy. A custom double-sided Pierre Chareau–inspired boucle and velvet sofa faces refinished Milo Boughman chairs. A custom stone credenza sits opposite a 2023 assemblage by artist Dustin Yellin. A white-oak paneled wall with illuminated film-poster frames wraps the exterior of the screening room, ending at a neon-lit burgundy door leading inside. Screening Room The 22-seat Dolby Atmos screening room—New York City’s only fully immersive room of its kind—was designed in collaboration with sound engineers. Acoustic equipment is concealed behind stretched-wool and walnut panels. Periwinkle blue reclining seats by Cineak have custom table lights by Lambert et Fils. A perforated double-curved walnut frame surrounds the projection screen, with brass sconces above. Conference Room and Offices Mint-green acoustic sliding doors connect or separate conference spaces, offices, and editing suites. The custom ash-frame meeting table features a curved, high-gloss lacquered top, surrounded by vintage Tobia Scarpa sling chairs. Private offices and editing suites support small-group screenings with high acoustic performance. Communal workspaces use sit-stand desks with white-oak dividers topped by stone sills for plant display. Structural columns throughout are clad in travertine, marking the transition between the public reception/screening areas and the more private work zones beyond.