Power Solutions.
Small in size, big in character TEXT: ELINE JOLING | PHOTOS: BOFA ARCHITECTS
Small and medium-sized enterprises might not typically be housed in the most inspiring of buildings, but the offices designed by BOfA are an exception. Developing buildings that catch your eye with just the simplest of outlines and sparing designs is where this architectural firm flourishes.
Time to get to work Work starts for BOfA when a client wants to expand or build a new office, but doesn’t know how to approach the project. Through word of mouth advertisement they often end up in front of Steven Winderickx and his team, who are ready to immerse themselves in the story of the company and its people, and design a building as if it’s their own. Even before a location is chosen, they start developing a virtual design. “As 18 | Issue 71 | November 2019
soon as that first virtual brick is laid, it starts to come to life,” Winderickx says. “People are getting involved and employees are motivated because they can see the progress – it starts to create a great dynamic within the company.”
painting,” says Winderickx. “When you look at a painting it gives you a harmonious feeling, and that’s something you can translate into architecture, as well. Even though it’s only a few simple lines, it makes you feel good inside.”
Part of the great reception it receives is due to how well the firm can place itself in the shoes of the client, with many of them being surprised at how BOfA managed to understand and translate the wants and needs of the company into its design so effortlessly.
Designing SME buildings
The architectural lines Winderickx refers to are part of the sparse designs that come with creating a timeless look for the buildings. Take, for example, the building BOfA designed for Bellerose. Image is very important, with Bellerose being a clothing brand, and despite the building being of a certain age, it still has a strong look that catches your eye.
While in its essence it is still industrial construction using typically industrial materials, BOfA prides itself in the way it steers away from the basic situation of having an office building and warehouse. “I look at every design like it’s an abstract
The seeming simplicity of the outer design often translates to the interior of SMEs as well. Here, BOfA works together with interior designers to play around with stunning, loft-like styles to retain