By Star Hughes-Gorup

A dream scenario for any business might be to collect what thousands of customers are saying about their brand, then using sophisticated analytics to help craft the data into a proactive business strategy. That dream becomes reality with Chatmeter, a San Diego-based software firm that—as they describe it—is “the control center from which you command the online conversation about your brand.” They gather and analyze customer reviews, social posts, search rankings, competitor data and more to construct the “big picture” about a company’s brand perception. Then they give that company the tools to take action.

Chatmeter has recently secured the penthouse of a downtown San Diego office building as a way to return to the office in a hybrid work model. This location inspires new thinking and includes flexible space. Commanding panoramic views that include the Coronado Bridge, San Diego Bay and the city’s diverse neighborhoods, the space is a perfect match for the robust future of this innovative business.

Since Chatmeter’s company culture is all about bold ideas and embracing authenticity (qualities we also embody at Hughes Marino!), the office environment had to be a place where those things could grow and flow. Ideally, that would be a layout with an open floor plan that would have a healthy dose of natural light. Along with a state-of-the-art kitchen, the office needed to accommodate a variety of spaces for collaboration.

High, open ceilings lend an airy feel to the industrial-chic space. The desk areas allow for both individual focused work, as well as conversations and mentoring.

A focal point for the team is the sizeable kitchen area. A long island with barstools front and center, a generous countertop with a gourmet coffee set-up including appliances for meal storage and prep. Separate tables and chairs provide a selection of seating options. And for group get-togethers, there’s a big-screen TV and a space for an ice-cold keg on tap!

Collaboration between team members is a key component of Chatmeter’s success, and a number of residential-style gathering spaces throughout the office provide an ideal backdrop. Upholstered, adjustable sectionals, couches, chairs and ottomans are complemented by a variety of tables and ample lighting. While these groupings help to create welcoming areas for hatching groundbreaking ideas and pioneering creative solutions, they are equally suited to a solitary coffee break on a busy afternoon.

For a growing company oriented toward social media and digital dynamics, Chatmeter needed a space that could support its current success while still being able to adapt to future needs. With the penthouse set-up they now have—complete with flexible functionality and collaborative alcoves—team members should find no shortage of space in which to help their clients “command their online conversations” for years to come, making this a Space We Love!