International Franchise Association (IFA)

Our Approach

sshape’s design of the 13,000-sf office for the International Franchise Association (IFA) centers on a branded spatial narrative that integrates the organization’s history and the diverse franchise community it represents. The café, a visually prominent feature upon entry, evokes a nostalgic diner atmosphere through traditional booth seating, a detailed bar-style counter, and classic mosaic tile flooring—an intentional nod to IFA’s early roots in the food-and-beverage sector. Conceived as a multifunctional zone, the café serves as both a social amenity and an alternative work environment throughout the workday. Branding elements thoughtfully continue throughout the space, including visual cues that acknowledge multiple franchise sectors without elevating any single brand, and a museum wall along the atrium where member-donated items create an evolving display celebrating the history and individuality of the franchise world. The workplace is structured around a hoteling model that allows staff to select settings that best support their work throughout the day, with a variety of spaces that create a warm, welcoming environment for both daily use and member-focused events. The result is a workplace that expresses IFA’s story through meaningful design details while enabling a contemporary, adaptable work experience.