I didn't want to put my snarky comments in the main post, but it seems the whole things is built without subdirectories. And that splash-page logo--so old-fashioned!

Web was just never one of their strong suits, except they've got Lisa Strausfeld now, and I would think she could do something 'bout that.

I imagine web hawks will describe the site design as coming from a print dynamic, and I'd say they would be right. It does fall nicely, though, into the 'let the work speak for itself' realm. The presentation of the work is nicer than the previous iteration with its too-small flash popup windows.

I consider it an improvement on the old 'black' site which never seemed to be updated- even though it was from time to time.

Their organization of site assets are very odd - but perhaps an architect developed the site -

http://www.pentagram.com/images/

Their organization of site assets are very odd

For a non-webby, can you explain this a bit more?

I think there is something good to be said about the simplicity of the site. It loads quickly and the work really stands out. Their flash "animation" at the beginning is plain dumb. A fade? that's all? whatever!

I have heard a lot from designers who think Pentagram's work is not as good and it's very overrated. This might just be me, but I think their work is excellent and very inspirational. Clean, smart and to the point without unnecessary graphic clutter.

Their identity mark work is exceptional, I just absolutely love it.

This is a major mistake in my book:

Zero information on the home page.

I don't think this part falls under the 'letting the work speak for itself' category.

Zero information on the home page.

Good point. It really is imperative to have something as an introduction.

By the way, read the Approach copy. The part I like best is "because design at its best satisfies clients, pleases users, and gratifies the designer." (My italics added.) I'm not sure I've ever seen another company willing to admit that they need to be happy with the work, along with the client. It's acknowledged amongst designers that we do our best work when we like what we are producing, but rarely is that noted in marketing materials.

Jon -

Their images folder - to which I provide a link, is extremely well planned out with folders for each type of graphical asset they've created for the site. The Portfolio folder has within it more folders for the type of work displayed on the site.

This is helpful for updating the site with new graphics or content. And so one would 'expect' - but not have to - that the actual HTML files would also follow a similar folder structure, which again would make it easy for site maintenance and management.

However - I am certain this is just silliness on my part to even mention this, and does little to reflect on their real capabilities.

Though the site does seem to sort of imply that web design might not be their strong point.

If you take a firm like IDEO - who don't strictly build websites, they still have quite a detailed and functional website (but with a splash page, alas.)

I am a great fan of Pentagram, especially the model in which they run and continue to grow the firm. I think that they've found a way to continue to attract excellent talent, and deliver consistent results.

I like their convergence in design and their editorial design, marks and print work has been outstanding in the past.

But I have heard its not the easiest place to work if you're not a partner or Associate Partner, because of the way offices and groups are run by partners.

>Zero information on the home page. I don't think this part falls under the 'letting the work speak for itself' category.

White space Sam. White space.

I have never heard of this "white space" of which you speak. It sounds...intriguing.

In clients' minds:

white space = wasted money

In my mind:

client's mind = white space

Argghhhh...flash text...ahhhhhh!

I see absolutely no compelling reason for using flash on this site.

Anyhoo...flash text and pointless intros aside, not to shabby. The top bar navigation is a bit cryptic...took me a while to notice that they were breadcrumb...seems to be an afterthought.

The portfolio is a bit too linear for my liking, but it gets the job done.

>took me a while to notice that they were breadcrumb

I hadn't noticed that. Aren't breadcrumbs clickable usually? so you can go back on your tracks?

haha! Yea...you're right, Armin. The only item you can click on is Pentagram...which just takes you back to the pointless splash screen.

>The only item you can click on is Pentagram...

It's part of their effort to gratify the designers.

white space, ho...hum..ho...hum...I stared at this white space for at least 3 minutes before I realized nothing fabulous was going to happen in this lovely white space. the website seems a little elementary. but then maybe that's their point.