In Chengdu’s Tianfu New District, the new global headquarters of Tahota Law Firm stands as a bold reimagining of what a legal office can be. Spanning nearly 20,000 square meters across ten floors, the space is more than a workplace—it is a physical expression of the firm’s values, ambitions, and evolving identity. As one of China’s leading comprehensive law firms with a growing international presence, Tahota approached this project with a clear and forward-thinking vision: to move beyond the traditional, closed-door model of law firm design and create a space that fosters openness, flexibility, and real-time collaboration across teams. Here, architecture and design are not merely functional—they are strategic tools that support a new rhythm of work, one that is dynamic, human-centred, and future-ready.
Chengdu, Tianfu New District, China
20,000 square meters across 10 floors
Robarts Spaces
Chengdu Linto Office System Co., Ltd
At the heart of the design is a commitment to what Tahota calls “professional empowerment and humanistic care.” This philosophy informed all decisions, from spatial planning to furniture selection, aiming to create a work ecosystem based on three core principles: flexible storage, convenient collaboration, and intelligent office solutions.
The design team, led by Director Yi Wang of Robarts Spaces, broke away from the conventional layout of isolated offices. Instead, they introduced a composite structure that blends core functional zones with adaptable collaboration areas. Vertical staircases connect every two floors, surrounded by tea stations, greenery, and informal learning spaces—elements that bring a rare sense of vitality and community to the legal workplace.
Wang explains that the intent was to “break the inherent pattern of law firm design” and create a space that encourages communication and a sense of life. This approach not only enhances the day-to-day experience of employees but also reflects the firm’s broader cultural values.
A critical yet often overlooked element of this transformation is the role of furniture. Chengdu Linto Office System Co., Ltd., an authorised Haworth dealer and long-time partner of Tahota, played a pivotal role in shaping the physical environment to support the firm’s evolving needs.
In the open-plan work areas, Haworth’s Intuity desks—equipped with sound-absorbing screens—help create a focused, quiet environment where lawyers can concentrate on complex cases without distraction. These workstations are paired with Very ergonomic chairs and Park Bench high tables, which promote healthy posture and encourage spontaneous, informal collaboration. In the firm’s large meeting rooms, Planes movable conference tables and Very chairs offer the flexibility to adapt the space to meetings of various sizes and formats.
Haworth’s ergonomic products and sustainable practices significantly improve employee well-being and performance.
Member of the Management Committee, Tahota
The new headquarters is more than a milestone for Tahota—it’s a model for the future of legal workspaces. By aligning spatial design with organisational culture and business strategy, the firm has created an environment that supports both operational excellence and human connection.
This project demonstrates how furniture, layout, and atmosphere can become tools for business development and cultural expression. It also signals a broader shift in the legal industry, where the workplace is no longer just a backdrop for work but a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth.
As Tahota continues to expand its influence across China and internationally, its Chengdu headquarters will serve not only as a hub for legal expertise but also as a symbol of the firm’s commitment to progress, professionalism, and the evolving spirit of the rule of law.