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DESIGNPHASE DBA: POSITIVE EXPERIENCES THROUGH DESIGN PURE AND SIMPLE | EASE OF USE | PUT TO TASK | A CUSHY ARRANGEMENT | STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE AFFABLY ADAPTABLE | BOOTH ASPIRATIONS | TABLE TALK | IN THE HOTSEAT | BATTING ORDER
EYE ON EFFORTLESS CONNECTIONS.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
OFFICE CONCEPT
FOR THE GOOD OF ALL As the correlation between heightened workplace productivity and employee happiness grows increasingly evident, design industry professionals are working harder than ever on solutions that enable staffers to look on the bright side.
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he star of this issue’s pages, designphase dba knows a thing or two about creating positive experiences through interior design. For 35 years, this Singapore-based studio has been making a name for itself with brilliant international projects that showcase innovation and original thinking. I’d like to personally thank designphase dba for enlightening us with examples of the company’s most stunning works. Since the magazine began, we’ve had countless amazing collaborators and I’d also like to take this opportunity to put out an open call to workplace design studios and manufacturers of office products. We are always on the lookout for new submissions and long-term strategic partners. Show what you’ve got! Not forgetting about co-working and office space providers: spread the word about your services by dropping us a line about your updated office locations. Our website’s been getting a lot of love as of late. Make sure to check in with us all April long for live digital updates on inspiring workplace interior trends and industrial product designs. Other areas of note for our dear readers: Office Concept’s monthly newsletter updates will gradually occur on a bimonthly basis. See room for improvement? As the website’s features are fine-tuned and upgraded over time, we’d love to hear from you about kinks that ought to be ironed out. Give us a shout at comment@officeconcept.asia. All the best and Happy Reading!
Kenneth Khu
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8300 V-TRAVEL by KUSCH+CO
H+R ISSUE 08 APRIL EDITION 2017
ARTISTIC INNOVATION
LE MERIDIEN SHANGHAI BY HBA
SURROUNDED BY INSPIRATION HBA DESIGNS THE LODGE AT EDGEWOOD TAHOE TO ‘DELIVER THE LAKE’. SURROUNDED BY INSPIRATION HOTEL INDIGO LOS ANGELES TELLS THE TALE OF A YOUNG STARLET IN HOLLYWOOD. UNMATCHED LUXURY HBA DESIGNS ONE OF THE MOST DISTINGUISHED LUXURY HOTELS IN ISRAEL LOCATED IN GERMAN COLONY OF WEST JERUSALEM.
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WORKSPACE DESIGN COMMONWEALTH BANK OF AUSTRALIA NORD/LB PHILIPS APAC HQ NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK CAPITAL SQUARE TAN KOK QUAN PARTNERSHIP TRAFIGURA FUJI XEROX TOWERS
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FITTING INTERIORS CONSTRUCTIVE CONFIGURATIONS BASICALLY PERFECT DIVIDE AND DELIVER WORKPLACE WONDER SIT BACK & RELAX IT’S A PEARL WORKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
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THE SOCIAL CIRCLE CELEBRATING SCENES OF YESTERDAY
BAE by ORANGEBOX
editorial MANAGING EDITOR Kenneth Khu DEPUTY EDITOR Pang Yin Ying EDITOR Christine Lee
OFFICE CONCEPT
design ART DIRECTOR Eric Phoon SENIOR DESIGNER Sandy Liew contributors WRITERS Adele Chong, Dorothy Lung WORKSPACE DESIGN designphase dba sales & marketing SENIOR SALES MANAGER Edmond Lee SALES EXECUTIVE Kelvin Ong publication PUBLISHER Kenneth Khu
CONTENTS & PARTNERS
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enquiries ADVERTISING advertising.oc@kennethmedia.asia EDITORIAL get.featured@kennethmedia.asia CONTRIBUTION join.us@kennethmedia.asia SUBSCRIPTION subscribe.oc@kennethmedia.asia website www.officeconcept.asia | www.kennethmedia.asia contact KENNETH MEDIA SDN BHD 1002 Block D Tiara Kelana Jalan SS7/19 Kelana Jaya 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia T: +603 7887 4525
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photo credits COVER: DESIGNPHASE DBA SECTION OPENER: WORKSPACE DESIGN DESIGNPHASE DBA FITTING INTERIORS KETTAL THE SOCIAL CIRCLE HAWORTH & SCHIAVELLO printer PERCETAKAN IMPRINT (M) SDN BHD No.538, Jalan 20 Taman Perindustrian Ehsan Jaya, Kepong 52100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia permit number KDN PP18848/09/2015(034306) MCI(P) 134/01/2018 magazine OC | Office Concept is published three times a year and is circulated throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Opinions expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by the publisher.
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copyright notice All rights, including copyright, in the content of this publication are owned by Kenneth Media Sdn Bhd, Malaysia. You are not permitted to copy, broadcast, download, store in any medium, transmit, show or play in public, adapt or change any in any way the content of this publication for any other purpose whatsoever without the prior written permission of Kenneth Media Sdn Bhd, Malaysia.
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PURE AND SIMPLE
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Chic simplicity and form prevail when it comes to the Noto Table. Designed by Enzo Berti for Italian brand DVO, this pared down wonder pays poetic homage to the classic worktable on trestle legs. With a choice of three different finishes, table tops and rectangular and round versions available, Noto’s light and minimal presence lends a touch of well-crafted elegance to homes and workspaces everywhere.
If you are looking for a multi-purpose chair with personality, go no further than the Nava. This striking Tom Deacon design for Girsberger affords an uncompromised feeling of comfort even after prolonged periods of sitting. Made for easy storage, stacking and row-forming, this wonderfully versatile piece, available in both low and high versions and four comely colours, is an equally handy complement for standing tables.
Staying true to its graceful moniker, the Eva chair packs high-quality materials and cutting edge manufacturing into one perfectly shapely package. Placing due emphasis on user comfort and experience, Orangebox’s impressive task chair boasts a mechanism that provides just the right amount of resistance, according to the user’s weight. Set on free-wheel castors and a polished aluminum base, Eva also exemplifies environmentally responsible product design and manufacturing.
DVO.IT
GIRSBERGER.COM
ORANGEBOX.COM
Design for the well-being of People.
www.kokuyo-furniture.com Osaka | Tokyo | Beijing | Shanghai | Shenzhen | Hong Kong | Singapore | Kuala Lumpur | Bangkok
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A CUSHY ARRANGEMENT
STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE
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A workplace waiting area doesn’t have to be run-of-the-mill, especially now that the K2 collection is here for the asking. This modular system of stools, side tables and loungers takes the art of customising interior environments to another level, thanks to interchangeable components that were designed with aesthetics and comfort in mind. Available in pretty pastels, built-in supports can also be added for extended periods of repose.
Embodying Made-in-Germany quality, the 8600 Lupino’s sensuous design is just one of its many exciting characteristics. Featuring a sporty outlook and an organic shape that effectively supports the user’s body, this shell armchair by Norbert Geelen for Kusch + Co features two backrest heights, affording ample support. Its quirky, colourful structure makes a dynamic first impression, as does its environmentally-friendly make. Several customisation options available.
Collaborating with Dutch designer Ineke Hans, Hitch Mylius has succeeded in devising a vibrant furniture system that makes a splash in formal and informal spaces alike. Flexible and light, the hm10 FLIX family offers multiple and single seating options, culminating in versatile arrangements that gel wonderfully with the changing needs of a modern office environment. Allowing for privacy while facilitating communication, its thoughtful design gives way to luxurious sitdowns, and no doubt, conducive work sessions.
KASTEL.IT
KUSCH.COM
HITCHMYLIUS.CO.UK
Armchair Cala by Doshi Levien Table by Jasper Morrison
HEAD OFFICE KETTAL / CONTRACT : Aragรณn 316, 08009 Barcelona, Spain. T. (34) 93 487 90 90 SHOWROOMS KETTAL: BARCELONA - LONDON - MARBELLA - MIAMI - NEW YORK - PARIS Export Manager Asia: Victor Moncho, victor.moncho@kettal.es T. +86 15001876948
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BOOTH ASPIRATIONS
TABLE TALK
IN THE HOTSEAT
If you yearn for moments of privacy at the workplace, the Vis-à-vis work cubicle might be just the solution for you. Dreamt up by the design experts at ZenPro, this nifty see-through, freestanding enclosure comes with everything you need to facilitate a productive solo work session, including sufficient ventilation, international power socket, sensor-operated LED light and an adjustable shelf for all your devices. Acoustically reinforced, Vis-à-vis ensures zero-disturbance, inside and out.
Taking a cue from the English country house and early university mess hall, BAE is a range of large, scalable collaborative worktables that underscore the importance of congregating and working together. The collection, which boasts 16 variants, can be structured according to space and use, enabling a functional yet wholly aesthetic experience. Fitted with Pablo Circa lights or a stainless steel light, BAE also furnishes generous leg space for ease of movement.
Taking the task chair of yore to the next level, the Pico chair offers users the luxury of personalising their own individual sitting experiences. An adjustable armrest with polyurethane armpad, an adjustable seat depth-cum-sliding mechanism and a height adjustable pneumatic cylinder are just some of the exceptional features that make this stylish office staple an ongoing staffer favourite. Great support in the form of highdensity polyurethane moulded foam doesn’t hurt either.
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ORANGEBOX.COM
DELLFORMFURNITURE.COM
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Combining his two lifelong passions - design and cricket - designer Gerard Taylor’s recent creation for Orangebox, the Fielding Workstation, celebrates the joy of being different. Heeding the needs of an increasingly diverse workplace where staffers of different shapes, sizes and mindsets congregate, Fielding is composed of three main components that offer a versatile mix-and-match arrangement. Available in 17 variants, Taylor’s innovative range is an eloquent ode to group work. ORANGEBOX.COM
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onceptualising a designer’s own office was both an exciting and daunting experience. On the one hand, we tried to show our inventive character, creative spirit and professionalism - but on the other, restraint and practicality needed to rule the day. With a very limited budget and almost all reused furniture, the new designphase dba office at Wilkie Edge is an exercise in “balance”. As visitors approach, the immediate impression is open, accessible and very much reflects contemporary thinking in collaborative and engaging, work-life behaviour.
INTERIOR DESIGN
The visual aesthetic is progressive inclusive and welcoming toward representatives from each of the 3 worlds in which we operate - Corporate, Hospitality and Retail but purposefully avoids any strong alignment with either. Although the open planned studio is rather regular and efficient, the front-of-house space is unlike a conventional office reception as it doubles up for multiple purposes. Most frequently it is used for team collaboration and brainstorming sessions where concepts are invented and debated (sometimes raucously). But the mobile furniture suits a variety of needs, like our almost continuous activity of presentation assembly, meetings with Clients, co-consultants, contractors, suppliers and industry specialists. Two acoustically quiet rooms adjacent to the collaboration area are in high demand for separate discussions with Clients, staff and others when audial discretion is preferred. This area is also used for events, functions and presentations, so we have augmented the space with speakers, projectors and a flexible lighting arrangement. As would be expected, hospitality plays an important role in bringing people together in an informal way, so the self service coffee, bar, microwave and refrigerator are placed in the open space and is often the point at which people gather for a casual chat.
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designphase dba’s office is contemporary and refreshing embodying a youthful character with fun vibes all around - even when the going gets tough.
THIS PICTURE: designphase dba’s mental playground at Wilkie Edge
DESIGNPHASE DBA
DEREK MACKENZIE
MANAGING DIRECTOR
INTERIOR DESIGN
As a seasoned Asian campaigner and designer for both the public and private sectors in Singapore and South East Asia, Derek relishes using his tremendous wealth of experience in his role as Managing Director of a multi-award winning interior design company. With over 35 years in Singapore and the region, he brings a tenacious, pragmatic and client-centric mindset to design issues. Derek is a staunch advocate of the immense contribution that open-minded, imaginative design brings to all businesses. To that end, he has assembled a like-minded team of thoughtful, highly original creative thinkers and producers to critically assess and implement solutions in partnership with clients.
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A tireless campaigner for professionalism, Derek remains thoroughly engaged in his field and continues to believe that both people and businesses perform better in well-designed, carefully curated environments.
A no nonsense Dutch designer, edgy, experimental, original and humorous. Joris adds a touch of glam to the typical minimalist design aesthetic associated with Dutch Design. Top of his class, Joris graduated as Bachelor of Interior Architecture from the cutting-edge Willem de Kooning Academy Rotterdam, one of the most prestigious art schools in the Netherlands. With nearly 2 decades of experience, he creates pragmatic solutions that bend the rules and challenge dogmas. Sometimes provocative, always innovative, Joris’ background in business economics helps him to drill down to the core essence of the assignment or client’s DNA to spark the creative concept.
JORIS ANGEVAARE
Headquartered in Singapore, Joris travels the world attending to projects that span the globe. Diversity in cultures, philosophies and aesthetic juxtapositions spark new ideas, concepts and form relentless inspiration.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
DESIGNPHASE DBA INTERIOR DESIGN 028 THIS PICTURE: ALT Pizza at Suntec City by designphase dba
INTRODUCTION designphase dba create positive experiences through Interior Design. We draw inspiration from the belief that the built environment can (and should) facilitate human activities, engage an audience and delight guests, well beyond their immediate expectations. Through our 35 years in Singapore, designphase dba have experienced a great deal of change. Many lessons have been learned. Hence, we have gained and applied an uncommon perspective in contemplating what lies ahead. designphase dba welcome change – it ushers in the ‘new’, brings refreshment, improvement, current relevance and preparedness for the future. It is our blood. And it has been a delight helping Clients to manage the physical effects from their own times of change, be they in Retail, Corporate or Hospitality businesses. We understand that each business has different requirements and each space offers unique challenges and opportunities. Yet there are topics which we are experiencing as common threads across industry sectors in current times:
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Behavioural trends being brought about through the use of technology Inclinations, attitudes, opinions (and behaviour), arising from generational changes and the way the resulting demographics are guiding preferences and decisions Stakeholder influence toward a rising number of CSR issues The effects that an increasingly urbanized world is having on FF&E resources and inventions The way that increasing global competition is focusing attention toward cost, labour, and reassessment of what defines quality
Design is more than a commercial transaction with an aesthetic coating. Developing early, empathetic relationships with Clients opens gateways to understanding their operations and the idiosyncrasies of their brand values, personalities and desires for expression. From these insights designphase dba craft stories, develop narratives, examine context and deeply focus on the user experience. We firmly believe that concepts initiated in this way, will resonate through the full creative process, offering considered reasoning behind design and design-management decisions. Notwithstanding, Client relationships are not built on the design. They are built on the Design Service, in which ‘design’ plays a crucial role.
designphasedba.com
facebook.com/designphase
instagram.com/designphasedba
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
DESIGNPHASE DBA
In addition to the above, a full design service will also include the undertaking and/or coordination of:
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INTERIOR DESIGN
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Framing the Client’s brief-Corroborating Client/ Consultant understanding Functional layouts, stacking and space planning Concept evolution and Presentation (including design rationale) Integration of third party consultants for Engineering Air-Conditioning/ Ventilation, Electrical Works, Plumbing/Drainage/ Sanitary, Fire Protection, Structure, Kitchen and Bar design, Acoustics, Audio Visual, Visual Merchandising, Entertainment and Conference Systems, Lighting and other Specialists Details for Construction, Constructed Features and Built-ins Selections for all Loose Furniture, Fixtures, Fittings and Equipment Colour Scheming and Finishes Selections Construction drawings and specifications in readiness for tendering and/or bidding Branding, Graphic Design and Signage (including wayfinding) Budgeting and Scheduling of work (including full QS services, if needed) Manage competitive bidding by Tender to prequalified contractors Project Management/ Design Management and Project Administration Statutory Submissions and Follow up for Authorities’ approvals Project conclusion and handover, including management of defects or incompletions Post occupancy reviews, feedback, and collection of lessons learned
Interior Design is about crafting spatial potential toward an aspiration of a preferred future. Success in this endeavour is never the result of one person’s enterprise, opinion or accomplishment. In our profession, there are often many stakeholders and they all have their viewpoints which vary and compete for attention. Central to this environment are the objectives, expectations and dreams of the Client. Strong leadership, an experienced and knowledgeable team governed by a well articulated collaborative process, sit behind our deep portfolios of professional design activity in Hotels, Food and Beverage, Shopping (centres and stores), Offices and Public Spaces. While designphase dba have been awarded many industry accolades, the strongest endorsements for our achievements have come from witnessing the commercial success of our Client’s businesses and the complimentary feedback we receive from their guests, staff and customers.
designphasedba.com
facebook.com/designphase
instagram.com/designphasedba
THIS PICTURE: Lobby of Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel by designphase dba
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COMMONWEALTH BANK OF AUSTRALIA COMMONWEALTH BANK’S PREMISES AT SOUTH BEACH TOWER LOOK AND FEELS PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN
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INSPIRED BY RESOURCES, INFLUENCED BY THE GEOMETRY OF THE BANK’S BRAND, STIMULATED BY THE BANK’S HISTORY THROUGH THE FEDERATION PERIOD (1890 - 1915)
THIS PICTURE: Geometric shapes & patterns are derived from the CBA logo which itself was derived through an abstraction of the Southern Cross
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ommonwealth Bank Australia (CBA) needed to create a flexible, single location to workplace to accommodate the various aspects of the Bank’s activities and their partners (First State Investments). Altogether approximately 200 staff plus a 50 position trading room, various hot-desks, meeting rooms, collaboration areas and focus rooms were planned for. Commonwealth Bank Australia is very well facilitated technologically and a great deal of attention was paid to its correct co-ordination and installation. The suggested space plan of “neighbourhoods” for business units was agreed very early on in the design process. Our approach for design expression focused on CBA’s local business profile as a corporate bank deeply involved in the Australian resources sector. We blended this aesthetic with an open
planning profile and used the Bank’s heritage to govern the design of many of the more important visual details like the laying patterns for ceilings and floors and the new patterns developed for walls and doors. The space planning of this 28,000 sqft with a stair linking Level 6 and 7, was rationalised scientifically to suit the users’ needs; the visual treatment makes a statement about respecting history while looking to the future. This background together with the brand identity of Commonwealth Bank of Australia, helped cultivate distil and refine our conceptual position for the new location. The result is a welcoming impression, unique, warm and confident.
THIS PICTURE: Front-of-house meeting rooms leave strong Australian look & feel
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TOP: The Town Hall is designed (and used) as an alternative workspace
BOTTOM: The formal meeting rooms are acoustically private
THIS PICTURE: Colour scheme references the Australian bush
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THIS PICTURE: The new stair links client areas on L6 & L7. Projected brand messages are displayed through the open treads into the arrival zone
TOP: Inset carpet helps acoustics for quiet conversations in the welcoming zone
BOTTOM: Fabric wrapped panels with a distinctive Australian look & feel
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THIS PICTURE: A wide diversity of settings provides for Town Hall talks, quiet chats, group discussions and collaborative sessions
THIS PICTURE: Staircase connects the informal meeting space to the formal meeting rooms downstairs
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ONE OF THE MORE PLEASURABLE EXPERIENCES WITH NORD AS OUR CLIENT, WAS THEIR INTEREST AND DETERMINATION TO INFUSE ART INTO THE INTERIOR.
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ILLUSTRATED INTERIORS LEND PERSONALITY TO THE SPACE / ENTRANCE, ARTWORK AND LIGHT LINES IN THE FLOOR, HELP TO DISTRACT FROM THE VERY LONG PASSAGEWAY LEADING TO RECEPTION FROM LIFT LOBBY
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ocial consciousness meets gamechanging design at this hip new work space within Market Street. designphase dba incorporates a refreshingly modern style that lends charm to the practicality of the spaces with custom art infused at the office entrance.
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NORD L/B have a very long history and yet they are young in thought and action. This
predisposes the design to feel contemporary and yet highly professional, displaying the benefits of experience. NORD are a world leader in Shipping and Aircraft financing, hence the features in the Foyer leading into Reception. NORD are champions in the field of sustainability as well, which is why there is an emphasis toward greenery and the care taken in product selection.
TOP: The building’s achitecture determined the elongated entrance. Our task was to break down the distance & create a visual destination
THIS PICTURE: Artwork a key factor in projecting a youthful and cultured environment
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While the planning of NORD’s office is DISTINCTIVELY NORTHERN EUROPEAN LOOK AND intrinsically practical, there are small twists FEEL ESPECIALLY IN CLIENT FACING AREAS
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which pull the visitor closer, creating an embracing and comfortable space in both the client facing areas and the general office.
LEFT & RIGHT: Yes - a foosball machine!
TOP: Operable conference wall opens for Town Hall functions
BOTTOM: Not just a waiting area, but an alternative place for low-key discussion
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THIS PICTURE: A small reception / waiting area allows the space behind the desk to be used for small visitor discussions
THIS PICTURE: As a global leader in aviation finance, the “Flight” artwork installation story in a beautiful & subtle way
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THIS PICTURE: Paper aeroplanes carry a strong message with delicate precision
THIS PICTURE: The open hospitality zone sets the scene for many informal discussions
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A “JOURNEY” WAS DEFINED IN ORDER TO MAP “A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PHILIPS EMPLOYEE”.
THIS PICTURE: Grand Stair and Grand Stand were designed to reuse timbers from Philips’ other (demolished) building
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LEFT: The skylights over staggered voids provided natural light deep into each floorplate. They were pixelated to create dappled shadows
BEST WORKPLACE DESIGN (GOLD), DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARD 2017 DESIGN AWARD (HONOURABLE MENTION), 16TH SIA ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AWARDS 2016 SPATIAL CATEGORY (GOLD), SINGAPORE DESIGN AWARDS 2010
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he 380,000 sqft. Philips ASEAN Pacific Centre was a highly collaborating interior design assignment involving LAUD Architects (who also designed the building) and designphase dba who led the interior design team. We all worked within “Workplace Innovation” WPI guidelines which Philips have developed for their offices worldwide. The principal involved the creation of a central “Street” around which the various departments of the Group would circulate and interact. In the early stages we worked closely with CBRE to establish occupancy ratios for the strategic plan. The project involved moving all 2000+ staff from their 4 old manufacturing, administration and warehouse buildings into one, enlarged and radically modified existing building.
design accommodates new research and development facilities, labs, workshops, a co-creation centre with rapid prototyping capabilities, and a digital command centre for monitoring global and local consumer trends and managing content.
A “Journey” was defined in order to map “a day in the life of a Philips employee”. This gave rise to priorities in the placement of facilities and services. Each business group was organised and arranged into “Neighbourhoods”.
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Interesting design challenges included:
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bringing natural light to such a deep floorplate helping the vertical journey to be easy and interesting through full glass elevators and the “show-stair” design Integrating a private operator’s café into Philips convention and TownHall space, managing the over-arching vision with the needs of so many silo’d departments creating a concept which spoke the language of Philips in a B1 building – intermixing HQ facilities in a “light industrial” environment.
Of the many departmental functions, the
THIS PICTURE: Implementation of WPI (Workplace Innovation) with B1 classification
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LEFT: Many breakout areas encourage collaboration with an informal atmosphere
RIGHT: Workstations bask in natural light and relaxing window view
THIS PICTURE: Twin glass lifts and cafe below
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THIS PICTURE: As a “B1” classified building, the “light industrial” scheme for Philips, fits perfectly
TOP: Breakout project out into the atrium on each level. An “easy-stair” encourages walking. The timber “Grand Stand” is both an oratory platform & an alternative workspace
BOTTOM: Learning Center
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NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK THE DESIGN PHILOSOPHY WHICH UNDERPINS THE CREATIVE CONCEPT FOR NAB’S OFFICE AT ASIA SQUARE IS DERIVED FROM ‘AUSTRALIA IN THE ASIAN CENTURY’.
THIS PICTURE: Colours of Australian wildflowers keep the mood positive & plenty of power points, facilitate breakout areas as alternative workspaces.
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he design philosophy which underpins the creative concept for NAB’s office at Asia Square is derived from ‘Australia in the Asian Century’. designphase dba embraced the concept with contemporary thinking toward issues of sustainability, access and stakeholder engagement. designphase dba’s concept for National Australia Bank (NAB), was to create a rhythmic workplace footprint peppered with minibreakout facilities for informal discussions. The use of similar colour palettes that appear in repetition but applied differently in each space of the office.
Overall the most successful aspect of this design is the way it encourages people to frequently meet and interact with one another. Achieving LEED Platinum and Greenmark Platinum status within a LEED Platinum accredited building was a first for the private sector in Singapore an speaks well of the bank’s commitment to sustainability.
TOP: The “Green Wall” contributes to the LEED Platinum sustainability accreditation along with many live plants in the interior
THIS PICTURE: Informal collaboration spaces were positioned slightly aside from workstations to ease possible disturbance of colleagues
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TO BE VIEWED BY CUSTOMERS, EMPLOYEES, AND PARTNERS AS A BANK OF PREFERENCE.
TOP: Boardroom - some circumstances still require formality & need to carry status
THIS PICTURE: LEED platinum and greenmark platinum sustainability accreditation. An Australian look and feel for the staff breakout area
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THIS PICTURE: A variety of “huddle” spaces are peppered through the plan
THIS PICTURE: Break away discussion areas avoid disturbance at the workstations
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THE PURE WHITE, EYE-CATCHING LIGHT FEATURE IS LARGE IN SCALE AND IS ASSEMBLED AS A PUZZLE, REPRE-SENTING THE ‘CONNECTOR’ PHILOSOPHY OF OUR OVERALL DESIGN CONCEPT.
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THE DESIGNPHASE DBA SCHEME FOR CAPITAL SQUARE SPEAKS THE LANGUAGE OF BUSINESS.
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apital Square speaks the language of business and pays homage to the surrounding urban landscape.
With a strong and durable footing of fine granite for the flooring, interest is injected into the space with a giant feature wall of Bianco Cavalli (book-matched) marble and lighting. These large panels are highlighted with light dashing across their ‘Face’. At each enlarged lift lobby, fine ’light-lines’ are drawn to define and emphasize. A signature art piece has been placed in front of a black-glass mirrored wall at the northern end of the grand lobby. The reflections from this will
LEFT: Extended heights to lift lobbies & artwork for personality
deepen perspective, adding considerably to the perceived scale of the space. A new 10m high shopfront replaces the existing, to benefit space planning, as the dynamics of people flow will alter once the new security system is put into place. The pure white, eye-catching light feature is large in scale and is assembled as an 8-piece puzzle, representing the ‘CONNECTOR’ philosophy of the overall design concept.
RIGHT: New security turnstiles and concierge desks for anchor tenant
THIS PICTURE: Lighting Design featuring “Connector”-an 8pc puzzle light feature
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THIS PICTURE: The new floor plan, controls & directs traffic. A new glass faรงade surrounds the resulting space
TOP: A large floor mat traps dust & grit
BOTTOM: Connector Lantern view from below
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BOTTOM: The seating was planned as a natural part of the space - it doesn’t feel like an afterthought
TOP: New lift interiors
THIS PICTURE: A complex collection of independent elements - more beautiful as a whole than the sum of its parts
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TAN KOK QUAN PARTNERSHIP MOVING FROM A SPACE WHICH WAS ADOPTED, AROUND 8 YEARS AGO, THE NEWLY DEVELOPED GUOCO TOWER, HAS OFFERED THE FIRM THE NECESSARY ROOM TO GROW & THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO CREATE AND EXPRESS THEIR OWN CORPORATE PERSONA.
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ow one of Singapore’s leading legal practices, Tan Kok Quan Partnership (TKQP) has grown throughout the years into a dynamic team. Moving from a space which was adopted, around 8 years ago, the newly developed Guoco Tower, has offered the firm the necessary room to grow & the perfect opportunity to create and express their own corporate persona. designphase dba tailored a workplace experience for TKQP; a physical expression of attitude, culture & pride in the brand. To
showcase the excellent reputation of the firm, the entrance to the office is given a contemporary and professional look and feel. Adopting a “legal contest” metaphor, contrasting colours are used to exude strength & precision overlaid with elegance and sophistication. Dark wood tones used for the reception area brings warmth into the space as a clear contrast with the natural white marble floor which adds a crisp brilliance to the space. We believe these elements will elevate the perception of service standards and precision from TKQP.
LEFT: Good design doesn’t have to be expensive
ADOPTING A “LEGAL CONTEST” METAPHOR, CONTRASTING COLOURS ARE USED TO EXUDE STRENGTH & PRECISION OVERLAYED WITH ELEGANCE AND SOPHISTICATION.
THIS PICTURE: Pantry & library double as a collaborative break-out space
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
SINGAPORE MALAYSIA DENTSU TAN KOKAEGIS QUAN NETWORK PARTNERSHIP 080
DESIGNPHASE DBA TAILORED A WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE FOR TKQP; A PHYSICAL EXPRESSION OF ATTITUDE, CULTURE & PRIDE IN THE BRAND.
TOP & BOTTOM LEFT: High density occupancy yet feels bright & comfortable
BOTTOM RIGHT: Strong, confident, professional
Glass walls ascend to the ceiling, providing clear visibility and natural light, yet acoustic separation from surrounding activities. More attention to acoustics has been provided above the ceiling and below the building’s raised floor. A sense of style and prestige is added with the introduction of pendant lighting to each of the internalised offices for the firm’s most senior lawyers.
THIS PICTURE: Openable walls can add to the number of conference rooms
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SINGAPORE TAN KOK QUAN PARTNERSHIP 082
THIS PICTURE: Intense occupancy of the footprint with partner offices internalised
TOP: Partner offices have same size but different layouts
BOTTOM: Workstations near the window means natural light & views for all
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SINGAPORE TRAFIGURA 084
TRAFIGURA AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST SUCCESSFUL COMMODITIES TRADERS, TRAFIGURA’S NEW PREMISES AT OCEAN FINANCIAL CENTRE, NEEDED TO PRESENT ITSELF TO CLIENT’S AND RELATIONSHIP PARTNERS IN A MANNER SUITABLE TO ITS MARKET POSITION.
The office area spans across a total of 50,000 sq. ft. over two floors, with 10 exquisite Client Facing rooms occupying half of one floor. The ‘Client Facing’ areas were to be elevated in status with the trading floors being ‘practical, flexible and bright’.
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s one of the world’s most successful commodities traders, the brand needed to present itself to Client’s and relationship partners in a manner suitable to its market position.
BOTTOM: Special attention was paid to acoustics & lighting - A simple yet sophisticated room, free from distracting elements
The office includes a Boardroom for 28 people who have the privileged to utilize popup touch screens (one per two people) which are built into the Boardroom table. Each of the 10 audio-visual-enabled meeting rooms have special acoustic and lighting features to suit the frequency of AV contacts with Trafigura offices around the world. Many years prior this became a sustainability issue with the firm because it saves so much energy and time in preference to travel. The board room is also a highly transformative which can open up for
THIS PICTURE: This pattern was developed as a metaphor for the communication links between the many Trafigura employees worldwide
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SINGAPORE 088
TRAFIGURA
10 STUNNING CLIENT FACING MEETING ROOMS AND 15 IN-HOUSE MEETING/AUDIO-VISUAL ROOMS 4 SHOWERS AND 120 LOCKERS 2 FINE DINING ROOMS 6 PLUMBED-IN COFFEE PANTRIES
TOP: Executive functions and boardroom breakout
BOTTOM: Focal attention paid to acoustics
small gatherings, receptions, meetings, and more. There are two, in-house dining rooms and a food preparation area for those occasionally and necessary quiet working lunches or dinners. The balance of the area is devoted to hundreds of trading positions and staff facilities, augmented with their own round the clock hospitality and shower amenities.
THIS PICTURE: A large, well-facilitated 24/7 staff cafe
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
SINGAPORE TRAFIGURA 090
THIS PICTURE: 24/7 staff hospitality needed for global trading across time zones
LEFT: File cabinet doors have fabric for acoustics & laminate for practicality
TOP & BOTTOM: From afar & in close-up, precision in detailing & execution help govern your perception of quality
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
SINGAPORE
FUJI XEROX TOWERS
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FUJI XEROX TOWERS
FROM A DARK AND MOODY, OLD-STYLE ENTRANCE TO THIS “FRINGE-LOCATION” BUILDING, FUJI XEROX TOWERS HAS JUMPED FROM A POINT WHERE THE STATEMENT “LOWCOST-ADDRESS” COULD BE APPLIED, TO THE NOW, DARLING OF THE DISTRICT.
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through design expression and materialisation helped to avoid over-specification and cost escalations.
From the dark and moody, old-style entrance in a “fringe-location” building, Fuji Xerox Towers has jumped from a point where the statement “low-cost-address” could be applied, to the now, “Darling of the District”.
Concern in the assessment of materials also meant that many could be retained. Stainless steel exterior cladding and granite flooring are two good examples, although the latter was refined and re-organised in the design for a more appropriate arrangement in pattern proportioning.
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uji Xerox Towers has been comprehensively transformed through a clear and simple creative approach, together with the judicious application of materials.
While the need for status drove the decision to select marble as the principal material of expression, it was necessary to apply restraint in the quantities used. Prudence elsewhere
PHOTOS ON THIS SPREAD: Each of the 3 lift lobbies has a unique back-lit, natural marble picture stone feature for individual identity
ONE OF THE MORE GLAMOROUS ELEMENTS OF THE SCHEME ARE THE INDIVIDUAL LIFT LOBBY IDENTITIES. THESE BACK-LIT, NATURAL “PICTURE-STONE” FEATURES HELP WITH THE PRACTICAL WAY-FINDING FOR NEW VISITORS AND MULTI-FLOOR VISITORS, BUT ALSO, WITH THE MIRRORED, PENDANT-TYPE LIGHTING FIXTURES, THEY RAISE THE SENSE OF STATUS OF THOSE WAITING.
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
SINGAPORE FUJI XEROX TOWERS 096
LEFT: The interior concept is extended to the exterior security counter & building identity
FUJI XEROX TOWERS HAS BEEN COMPREHENSIVELY TRANSFORMED THROUGH A CLEAR AND SIMPLE CREATIVE APPROACH, TOGETHER WITH THE JUDICIOUS APPLICATION OF MATERIALS.
RIGHT: Reception Lobby’s expanded entrance & suble patterning of materials
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
SINGAPORE FUJI XEROX TOWERS 098
THIS PICTURE: Discreet security station integrated into the design
TOP: Concept flows out to the covered porch
BOTTOM: A large floor mat traps dust and grit. Glass flowers are a counterpoint to the corporate lobby
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
OFFICE CONCEPT FITTING INTERIORS
FITTING INTERIORS
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DISCOVER THE RIGHT FIT & BALANCE WITH CAREFUL MATERIAL SELECTION
SCHIAVELLO | AGILE TABLE DVO | DV909-TOKIO TABLE KETTAL | PROJECT CASE STUDY KOKUYO | COLLESSO KUSCH+CO | 8300 V-TRAVEL A. & H. MEYER | NETBOX PEARL OASIS | ACTIVITY BASED WORKING SYSTEM PAVILION by Kettal
SCHIAVELLO AGILE TABLE 104
CONSTRUCTIVE CONFIGURATIONS
ENABLING STAFFERS A MORE FLEXIBLE MEANS OF COMMUNICATING AND INTERACTING WITHIN THE WORKPLACE, SCHIAVELLO’S AGILE TABLE FACILITATES COLLABORATION THROUGH COOL ERGONOMICS.
THIS PICTURE: Available in single or dualheight fixed configurations, the Agile table fosters seamless transitions between solo and teamwork.
SCHIAVELLO AGILE TABLE 106 THIS PICTURE: Incorporating Storming and Work tables, standing and sitting work positions are equally supported by the ergonomically designed collection.
“THOSE WHO HAVE LEARNT TO COLLABORATE AND IMPROVISE MOST EFFECTIVELY HAVE PREVAILED.” Charles Darwin
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lexibility is, without a doubt, key when it comes to devising office environments of today. For many companies, it’s increasingly obvious that the freedom to move and work as one sees fit has a strong bearing on workplace productivity and staffer wellbeing. This is hardly news at Schiavello, where design experts continue to dedicate themselves to uncovering inspiring, resilient and ecological solutions that enable one to live and work better. Sustainability and smart design have long been the multidisciplinary company’s core guiding principles, culminating in award-winning products for the office, the home and public spaces. Schiavello’s winning streak continues with the Agile Table. Conceived specifically with diverse working styles in mind, this thoughtfully structured piece fosters easy transitions between solo and teamwork. According to
TOP: In addition to formal interactions, Agile places emphasis on the importance of ad-hoc work connections.
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
SCHIAVELLO AGILE TABLE
“DESIGNERS AMANDA STANAWAY (PRINCIPAL, WOODS BAGOT SYDNEY) AND SCHIAVELLO’S KETI MALKOSKI (PRINCIPAL, SCHIAVELLO PEOPLE AND CULTURE CONSULTING), IDENTIFIED A GAP IN THE MARKET FOR A TEAM TABLE THAT FOSTERED ACTIVE INTERACTIONS WHILE SUPPORTING AN OVERALL AGILE MINDSET WITHIN THE WORKPLACE.”
the company’s client research, employees, within a typical work week, spend 42 percent of their time engaging in collaborative endeavours while 58 percent are inclined towards independent work. Incorporating flexible configurations that allow for casual lounging, group or independent working, formal and informal standing or seated meetings, standing huddles, swarming, forming and reforming, Agile is designed to accommodate every foreseeable scenario. When combined together, the collection’s two main components, the Storming table and the Work table, offer users a unique experience; teams are given the option to shift between formal and informal means of interaction without the need to modify their environment. Featuring a wide variety of edge details as well as colours and finishes from the Schiavello ColourLab, table tops can also be customised to suit any setting.
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TOP: The option to add multiple work points, tools and accessories facilitates a more fluid way of working between teams.
BOTTOM: Appealing table top colours and finishes, courtesy of the Schiavello ColourLab, make Agile aesthetically adaptable to offices environments everywhere.
THIS PICTURE: By allowing staffers to choose their preferred work mode, the Agile table offers one the freedom to connect with teams on one’s own terms.
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
DVO
BASICALLY PERFECT
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DV909-TOKIO TABLE
STREAMLINED FUNCTIONALITY WITH AN ELEGANT TWIST, THE DV909-TOKIO TABLE IS A WINSOME WONDER THAT NODS TO INNOVATION AND TIMELESS DESIGN.
THIS PICTURE: Featuring two monochromatic colour choices – black or white – DVO’s pared down collection pays tribute to bold architectural structures.
DVO DV909-TOKIO TABLE 112 THIS PICTURE: Its low-reflective, lowmaintenance, anti-bacterial and anti-fingerprint finish makes the DV909 more than ideal for office use.
“IMPECCABLY DESIGNED BY ANTONIO MORELLO, THE COLLECTION OF EXECUTIVE TABLES EMBODIES SIMPLICITY AT ITS INFORMED BEST.”
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hilst an ever-expanding premium furniture industry continues to offer clients a wealth of choices when it comes to high-end design solutions for both the home and office, the search for products that effectively merge equal parts style and substance is an ongoing quest for most consumers. Founded in 1990, DVO is a unique furniture purveyor that has been making a splash within and beyond European borders, thanks to its fervent attention to aesthetics and functionality. Increasingly prolific, the Italian company’s international reach encompasses 100 countries and 1,071 customers worldwide. With an acknowledged penchant for innovation, dynamism and an intensified focus on eco-sustainable processes, the DVO brand is represented at some of the most prestigious design exhibitions in the world. Showcasing its head-turning designs in Milan, Madrid, Cologne, Moscow and Dubai, DVO returns to Milan Design Week 2018 with a host of exciting new creations. The DV909-TOKIO table is a notable highlight of the
brand’s latest offerings. Impeccably designed by Antonio Morello, the collection of executive tables embodies simplicity at its informed best. Setting itself apart from overwrought pieces that vie for attention through sensationalist means, this stripped down design is the perfect example of understated chic. Its sleek structure and strong lines pay homage to modern architecture while simultaneously creating a bold aesthetic statement. Available in black and white, the collection’s minimalist outlook, however, belies its utilitarian qualities. Clad in black or white fenix – a high-tech, low-maintenance material that is opaque and pleasant to the touch - the square or rectangular tables also boast anti-fingerprint, anti-bacterial and water repellent characteristics. Subtly quirky details such as obliquely positioned legs give rise to ease of movement while conveying a feeling of lightness. DVO.IT
TOP: The DV909 TOKIO table’s obliquely poised metal legs lend a touch of whimsy to Antonio Morello’s somewhat austere design.
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PROJECT CASE STUDY KETTAL
DIVIDE AND DELIVER
BRINGING THE OUTDOORS INTO THE WORKPLACE, KETTAL PAVILIONS ARE A VERSATILE TAKE ON WEAVING A VARIETY OF ROOMS IN AN OPEN-PLAN OFFICE.
THIS PICTURE: Kettal Pavilions are designed to create flexible rooms within a room for more private activities as well as retain an openspace feel.
KETTAL PROJECT CASE STUDY 116 THIS PICTURE: Acoustic fabric and glass panels help to reduce noisy distractions while still allowing for good sightlines from interior tables.
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or architects and interior designers looking to add new rooms in open-plan offices where employees can retreat from noise and other distractions, a Spanish outdoor furniture brand has just the answer. Kettal Pavilions, designed by Kettal Studio, are state-of-the-art, free-standing aluminium structures that provide visual separation along with soundproofing, and are easily configured to define and divide larger areas into meeting rooms, break-out areas, and private or communal workspaces. The pavilions can be customized according to the preferred size, colour, and choice of side panel and ceiling. While the side panels are available as blinds, curtains, shelving and glass, the ceiling comes in an array of choices: waterproof, polycarbonate, Venetian, bioclimatic, aluminium and/or wooden slat, and sliding, among others. Better yet, the panelling options can be added, removed or simply interchanged. To provide even greater flexibility, this architectural element is also offered as a single or double structure, and can be retrofitted with accessories as needed. And with more than 30 aluminium and fabric colour finishes to choose from, the design possibilities are almost endless. Kettal Pavilions have successfully been installed in a number of corporate offices, most notably Fora Space, London. A new work system consisting of a series of agile spaces, it can be scaled up or down and adapted to suit evolving workplace needs. The Fora Space project features accessories and systems that have been expressly developed for its design and operational concept, such as a card opening system, leather door handles, acoustic panels, and a sliding glass door system that quietly glides with effortless ease. KETTAL.COM
TOP: Simple and streamlined, the Kettal Pavilion can add architectural interest with its sturdy posts and open-beamed construction.
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KOKUYO COLLESSO 118
WORKPLACE WONDER ERGONOMICALLY SOUND AND ELEGANT, THE COLLESSO IS A MODULAR FURNITURE SYSTEM THAT ALSO LENDS ITSELF TO EMPOWERING EMPLOYEES AT THE WORKPLACE.
THIS PICTURE: Ideally suited for open-plan offices, the Collesso’s modular design opens up to multiple configurations, offering users a variety of options for working across the office landscape.
KOKUYO COLLESSO 120 TOP: The Collesso modular system shares an identical base that can be combined to provide a choice of arrangements from armchairs and sofas to tables, ottomans and benches.
BOTTOM: The metal base, along with the Colleso’s compact design, simplifies layout planning and allows for greater flexibility and density in a workplace.
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ooking to invest in lounge seating that can offer users a variety of options for working across the entire office landscape, while also keeping them comfortable and supported, whether for a few minutes or a few hours? The Collesso may just be the ticket. Ideal for the 21st century workplace with its famously fluid format, the Collesso’s shape-shifting design opens up to multiple configurations. Composed of individual elements, each with an identical metal base, this modular system can be used alone or combined to provide a choice of seating arrangements, from armchairs and sofas to ottomans and benches, where people can focus on individual work, collaborate within a team, or socialize with colleagues. The base, in addition to the chair’s compact footprint, makes layout planning a cinch and gives way to greater density in a workplace. Combine the lounge seating with standing desks, and this configuration will encourage employees to move from a seated position to a standing one. Adhering to body-friendly principles, this lounge offering from Japanese furniture manufacturer Kokuyo is further testament to the company’s yen for workplace wellness. The Collesso armchairs and sofas are sized to support people of various shapes and statures and boast firm cushioning and lumbar support that enable sitters to shift their postures to facilitate the task at hand, be it having a conversation or working on the laptop. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that the Collesso’s tailored, slim style and contemporary color palette will blend right in with a modern office decor. KOKUYO-FURNITURE.COM
TOP: Quiet spaces to focus are engendered in single sofas thanks to the “buffer” concept of providing tables that separate occupants.
BOTTOM: Skirt a sectional seating arrangement with standing desks, and this configuration becomes a setting to work without distractions, or a space to conduct face-to-face communication.
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
KUSCH+CO 8300 V-TRAVEL 122
SIT BACK & RELAX EMBLEMATIC OF GERMAN DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY, THE 8300 V-TRAVEL SERIES OF WAITING BENCHES IS A CONSUMMATE CROWD PLEASER WITH ITS STRIKING STREAMLINED SILHOUETTE, OPTIMAL SEATING COMFORT AND MYRIAD CONFIGURATIONS.
THIS PICTURE: The shape and geometry of the 8300 V-Travel frame, along with armrests that open up to the rear, contribute toward a strikingly slender and streamlined silhouette.
KUSCH+CO 8300 V-TRAVEL 124 TOP: The 8300 V-Travel series features few components but boasts much flexibility – thanks to a modular construction that offers multiple configurations.
BOTTOM LEFT: Power and data modules can be mounted either between two seat shells or incorporated in the bench tops.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Power and data modules can be flexibly positioned according to requirements with the cords discreetly corralled in the pedestals to guide them toward the floor.
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t’s not for nothing Sauerland-based Kusch+Co has been labelled a “hidden champion” among German SMEs, as it ranks among the world market leaders for public seating. Its new generation of waiting bench series, 8300 V-Travel, is yet another sure-footed step toward achieving seating comfort perfection. Striking for its streamlined silhouette, which is emphasized by clean, slender lines, this innovative range of stand-alone seat islands by the illustrious designer Justus Kolberg, will pull its weight in waiting rooms, foyers, reception areas and entrance ways with its flair and functionality. Featuring spine-friendly one-piece shells, the slender seats are mounted snugly atop an aluminium stretcher bar frame. The frame’s shape and geometry are fittingly paired with armrests that open up to the rear, contributing to a distinctively minimalist aesthetic. Two seat shell variations are available: an inner core consisting of a steel frame construction, fully covered with polyurethane foam, or a multiplex core, completely upholstered with textile fabrics or high-grade leathers. For even better relaxation, the seat shell can be substituted with a polyurethane foam Relax-lounger that is tapered toward the legrest. This version is designed to create a cocoon of calm and comfort while preventing the occupant from nodding off. A seating solution with a conscience, the 8300 V-Travel benches are also designed to facilitate the act of getting up or sitting down for people with reduced mobility: the seats can be raised to any desired height thanks to spacers. The benches come as 2, 3, 4 or 5 seater as well as benches with back-to-back configuration; the “basic bench” is ganged by means of extension bars and connectors. And to make the most of waiting, sitters can plug their digital devices into power and data modules mounted either between two seat shells or incorporated in the bench tops. The 8300 V-Travel series is proof that good things can come to those who wait. KUSCH.COM
TOP: The design aesthetic of the back-to-back configuration won’t fail to wow with its clean lines and harmonious proportions.
BOTTOM: Small, cushion-like pads combined with stepped, gradually tapered backrest bump up the comfort level of the polyurethane foam seat shell and Relax-lounger.
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CABLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM A. & H. MEYER
IT’S A PEARL! BETWEEN THE UNUSUAL GEOMETRY, A CLEAN, SMOOTH FINISH AND A CHOICE OF SNAZZY COLOURS, THIS GERMAN DESIGN AWARD 2018 WINNER IS CERTAIN TO SPARK CURIOSITY AND BE A TALKING POINT WHEREVER IT STAYS PERCHED.
THIS PICTURE: The NETBOX Pearl is easily mounted by means of Powerstrips or a clamp and operates on the plug-and-play concept.
A. & H. MEYER CABLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 128 TOP: Have the NEBOX Pearl perched on the desk and it will transform the ambience with its spherical shape and chic colours.
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. & H. Meyer has debuted the NETBOX Pearl that looks poised to stand out in a predictable market. An iconic addition to the NETBOX range, this German-designed electrification unit oozes retro-futuristic flair. No small wonder it has bagged the honours of having won the coveted German Design Award 2018. The desk-mounted modular unit is an exploration into striking a balance between function and form. A playful deviation from the typically rectangular and elongated NETBOX units, the Pearl is shaped like a spherical pod and won’t fail to lend a whimsical touch to any space and attract more attention than its rightangled counterparts. Rounded shapes are often used in a logo to represent unity, community or connection. The Pearl, after all, is designed to beckon people all around, because it’s about drawing people together in a workplace or a breakout area. It bears mentioning too that A. & H. Meyer’s history is inextricably linked to the ball caster which, unsurprisingly, is a prominent feature of the company’s logo. Hardwired with a starter cable or a connector cable in customizable lengths, the Pearl also boasts a lid that slides open with ease to reveal the power, data or multimedia outlets as well as a USB charger safely and snugly cocooned inside. Closed, it becomes a sculptural element while the internal parts are protected and dust kept at bay. A simple unit to set up and use, it is easily mounted by means of Powerstrips or a clamp and operates on the plug-and-play concept. In addition to black and white, the shell and base are available in five standout colours. From sassy orange to canary yellow, the bright hues are sure to add a bit of pizzazz to any environment. AH-MEYER.COM.MY
BOTTOM LEFT TO RIGHT: The NETBOX Pearl features a lid that slides open to reveal the power, data or multimedia outlets, and a USB charger inside.
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ACTIVITY BASED WORKING SYSTEM OASIS FURNITURE
WORKING OUTSIDE THE BOX WITH ACTIVITY-BASED WORKING (ABW) BEING THE NAME OF THE GAME IN THE MODERN OFFICE, OASIS’S RANGE OF VERSATILE FURNITURE SYSTEMS WILL ENSURE EMPLOYEES DON’T SIT IN JUST ONE PLACE – AND FOR GOOD REASON.
THIS PICTURE: Oasis’s ABW-inspired modular furniture systems help create private individual spaces to concentrate on everyday tasks as well as social spaces to hang out, conduct informal discussions or simply to recharge and relax.
OASIS FURNITURE ACTIVITY BASED WORKING SYSTEM 132 TOP: The absence of dedicated desks, cubicles, or offices in an activity-based workplace means that employees are free to roam and choose their ideal work spaces.
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ar removed from the straightforward ‘desk and chair’ arrangement seen in cubicles of traditional offices, a hybrid open design is fast becoming a norm for many modern offices. With a layout that specifically supports ABW – activity-based working – employees are not assigned a specific workstation but can instead pick and choose from a variety of different spaces to work within the office. And why not, given that today’s “anywhere workers” are empowered to work in the way that works best for them, resulting in their well-being and productivity, which in turn, begets the best outcomes for their organization. Not one to miss out on the latest office design trends, Oasis Furniture is setting the tone for how ABW can work in the office. Its ABW-focused desking and seating systems are designed to support deskwork, meetings, socializing and even for reflecting, recharging and relaxing.
From a collaborative setup such as a spacious whiteboard work station tricked out with shelves and couches to conduct training and to facilitate face-to-face conversations, or long tables for brainstorming, snug sofas, coffee tables and poufs to regroup and recharge to furniture that offers quiet corners to work such as ergonomic workstations with adjustable privacy screens, sit-or-stand desks for everyday tasks, standalone office pods for high-concentration tasks, and high-backed acoustic seats to help minimize ambient noise, these specialist furniture systems offer employees a spectrum of space configurations to encourage more intermingling within an office and help spur cross-pollination of ideas, foster creativity and build relationships. OASIS.COM.MY
TOP: Employees can retreat from noise and other distractions with Oasis’s sound-dampening acoustical panels and screens or, for even greater solitude, acoustic privacy booths.
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
SCHIAVELLO EVENT 134
THEME:
DOORS ARE OPEN TO SCHIAVELLO’S NEW RETAIL SHOWROOM
VENUE:
PRIMA TOWER, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
WEBSITE: SCHIAVELLO.COM
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
THEME:
JASPER MORRISON NIGHT OF DESIGN
VENUE:
HAWORTH SHOWROOM, SINGAPORE
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EVENT
HAWORTH
WEBSITE: HAWORTH.COM/AP
OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA
ODE TO ART SPOTLIGHT
CELEBRATING SCENES OF YESTERDAY
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im Tze Peng’s work is characterized by nostalgia, in dreamy inkscapes of olden Singapore. The nonagenarian began painting street scenes in his later years, disturbed by the rapid redevelopment in areas of Singapore that he frequented in his youth, such as the Singapore River and Chinatown. Lim’s works capture the hustle and bustle of life before the city-state became a thriving metropolis, with street hawkers weaving through narrow alleys selling their wares. These scenes are captured mostly in muted tones, like black, white and sepia, with colour added for emphasis and to enliven the ink paintings with glimpses of life and motion. A skilled calligrapher, Lim’s art employs intricate strokes derived from calligraphy to create expression. His medium is a combination of Eastern and Western, with techniques inspired by oil painting and often painted en plein-air, but with a medium of Chinese ink. The use of the classical ink wash imbues his images with gradients and tones that exude emotion. His large-scale works, often over a meter high, are a testament to both the artist’s physical prowess and his meticulous skill that merges with emotion in flowing strokes of ink, the characteristics of true creative talent. Singapore River Four Boats, Ink on Paper, 133cm x 266 cm ODETOART.COM