Robinson+Cole Moves to New Location in Hartford

Robinson+Cole has a new home in downtown Hartford.

The law firm cut the ribbon Sept. 5 on its new office at One State Street, more commonly known as the Hartford Steam Boiler Building. 

The more than 200 lawyers and staff in the office occupy four top floors of the 24-story building with panoramic views of the city and Connecticut River. 

“This move represents more than just a new address and a change of scenery,” said Robinson+Cole managing partner Rhonda Tobin. 

“We set out to design an environment that embraces and amplifies our core values of collaboration, civility, and inclusion.”

Robinson+Cole officially moved to the new location in August from its previous location on Trumbull Street. 

Emphasis on Collaboration

The firm worked with design company Studio Alliance to transform the space with an emphasis on collaboration, while also promoting focused work.

Offices have glass fronts, but also have “busylight” technology to indicate if someone is available to connect and sound masking technology was used in the hallways.

“We’ve created a bold, sophisticated, and innovative work environment that will enhance collaboration among our people to continue to provide exceptional services to our clients,” said Tobin. 

“The new space also embodies our firm culture for now and in the future.”

The design also aims to facilitate seamless remote collaboration and team building. 

Conference rooms and huddle spaces employ technology like a mobile app-based digital room reservation system.

There are also Zoom rooms to give virtual meeting participants the appearance that they are in a shared space. 

There is also a flexible conference center space for the firm to host internal, client, industry, and community organization events. 

Enticing Work Environment

The firm also put an emphasis on employee well-being, and creating an enticing work environment.

“A lot of what is driving us now is really looking for what kind of experience do people want to have when they come into the office and what can we offer to people that they can’t find at home,” Tobin told the CBIA BizCast in 2022 after announcing the move.

All workstations include sit-to-stand desks and there are café areas equipped with beverages, coffee machines, and bottle fillers. 

The building’s amenities also include a full-service cafeteria, newly renovated health club, daycare center, and golf simulator.

“We have already seen a surge of energy and engagement in our new space, with more people opting to work from the office,” Tobin said. 

Robinson+Cole has had an office in Connecticut since it was founded in 1845. 

The Hartford office is the largest of the firm’s 11 nationwide locations.