WHITE, YELLOW AND BLUE

Simplicity has its virtues. For the Hella Asia office, the use of glass and the minimal use of colours emphasise its distinct brand image. Such devices ensure a fuss-free, uncluttered and tasteful design and layout. The liberal use of white - in the walls, ceiling, furniture and floors - and the complementary colours of blue and yellow prevent any unnecessary distraction from work, and at the same time affirm the company's brand. Black and white pictures on the walls, serving an aesthetic purpose, chart more than a century of the company's history, emphasising it as an established, trustworthy and reliable organisation.

The clever use of glass and an almost non-existent positioning of partitions create clear and bright open spaces. Privacy is allowed for the circular discussion rooms by frosted glass panels in the walls. The absence of a reception desk in the holding area allows visitors to relax in the yellow tub chairs while waiting to be served.

Spotlights are well-exploited and overhanging light fixtures are few. Workstations are low with no cubicles alienating one colleague from the other. The open and minimalist concept encourages ease of communication between employees and clients, and also accommodates traffic flow.

The staff lounge echoes the colours of the main working area, but is set in cafeteria style - translucent bright blue chairs, glass tables and white cabinets and cupboards against a sunny yellow wall. To one side is a white bar counter with high metal stools under three hanging orbs. It sets a mood of cheerful casual dining conducive to discussions - break-time or not, - and quiet relaxation.

"Our designer DB&B is highly commendable for their exquisite taste in design, selection of materials and delivering the project on time and, needless to say, they have exceeded our expectation," said Daniel Binder, managing director of Hella Asia Singapore Pte Ltd.

For Hella Asia, simplicity definitely has its virtues. HRM