Destination Workplace: A human-centered approach to design
Black Elephant initially undertook a series of workplace audits to determine and measure work patterns, trends, and utilization of the client’s current space. Data gathered and evaluated enabled an informed understanding of their operational needs and requirements for a cutting-edge, sustainable ‘destination’ workplace.
In deriving a human-centered approach we considered both the physical and mental well-being of the workforce. The concept was designed to minimize the likelihood of stress and anxiety with a layout that allowed natural daylight to flood working areas, good task lighting, and soft seating areas for employees to step away from their working environment. Retaining open plan spaces, agile working, hi-spec technology, cycle parking, and areas where the outside merges with the interior, were also key to the design. The result is an ‘uncluttered’ light filled environment, and a blend of multi-functional work areas, collaboration booths, hot desking, ‘plug and play’ technology, ergonomic sit-stand desks, and a mix of collaboration spaces and quiet areas for taking time out. ‘Dead spaces’ were repurposed throughout the ground and first floors as comms rooms, printer and storage areas that can be readily adapted to accommodate future expansion.
An area overlooking the private gardens and lake inspired a design opportunity for introducing biophilia elements to the scheme by connecting this space to the stunning exterior landscape. The idea was to create a calm restorative place that would meet the client’s requirement for a multi-functional space for greeting visitors, informal catch ups, and as a place to relax over a coffee. Designated an employee ‘collaboration zone’ we devised an innovative scheme that would address the need for both function and comfort by siting a ‘cloud technology bench’ and an inviting bistro style café at its center.
The design of the company’s in-house ‘technical support helpdesk’ on the first floor was inspired by the Apple ‘Genius Bar’. Sited under the vast pyramid skylight and set between four original columns, the low level units offer uninterrupted views across the open plan office. Removing the original glazed walls of the existing atrium and installing a Barrisol stretch ceiling, creates a sense of space with light flooding the surrounding work areas.
Destination Workplace: A human-centered approach to design by Black Elephant ID Studio Ltd.
