These days, an office is not just a space from which one works. It can be, and almost invariably is, a place for leisure and relaxation too. In the case of Applied Materials, the DB&B team pushed the boundaries and succeeded in creating a wholesome and balanced environment for its occupants.
The warm and earthy tones exude a radiant glow that is both welcoming and aesthetically pleasing. Accents of orange and yellow serve to brighten up specific spots such as the general work areas. The selection of these “Asian” colours could not have been more in sync with the five-storey complex’s profession as the Asian home of Applied Materials’ global purchasing, sales, manufacturing, engineering and financial groups.
What’s more, the 87,000 square feet office was designed with an eye to going green. Natural light seeps in from every direction, especially the skylight along the central spine of the building. Vertical gardens dot the premises while greenery adorns specific locales like the breakout/lounging areas. Recycling and conservation reign with sensors for energy saving and the use of recyclable carpets and water-based paint. Through all this, “leisure” and “business” stand immaculately balanced with the boardrooms and reception areas getting that right touch of solemnity through the corporate colours and messages. The overall design idea is vividly anchored to the corporation’s business aspirations and its commitment to ecological sustenance.
Left:
1. The DB&B team succeeds in designing a modern office with an eye on ecology.
Source: Office Concept, 2010, Vol.3 No.2