Project Overview

ATEQ is a company specializing in leak test systems, and its owner is highly receptive to new ideas. Consequently, the designer envisioned the architectural space with a focus on a neo-industrial aesthetic, incorporating not only heavy industrial elements but also emphasizing intricacy. This attention to detail is reflected in the meticulous design of the proportions of the corrugated iron used.

The building, formed by combining three residential units, is strategically designed to facilitate close communication among employees from different departments who require frequent interaction. Given the potentially tense atmosphere due to the nature of the work, the interior design prioritizes creating a lively and relaxed ambiance.

With budget constraints in mind, the decision was made to allocate funds primarily to the interior. The exterior features simple components to avoid drawing undue attention from passersby and to preserve the overall sense of the community in the residential area where the office is located.

As the owner is French, the designer took bold liberties with the color scheme. The vibrant red barn doors serve as a link between the modern industrial style and the rustic charm of French countryside aesthetics.

Organisation

Ning Design INC.

Team

Designer: Tina Hsu

Project Brief

The building itself is a 30-year-old structure, formed by connecting three adjacent houses into a long office space. Externally, only a metal front façade was installed. To maintain a low-profile appearance and save costs, extensive decorations were avoided.

The front porch features a floor with exposed concrete finishing and includes a designated area resembling a ceramic tile carpet where employees can sit, relax, and chat. The openness of the walkway allows for casual greetings with neighbors passing by.

Considering the high-stress nature of the work, the work environment aims to foster a relaxed atmosphere. In addition to the thematic design and color schemes, the spatial layout incorporates numerous versatile areas. The entrance leads to a lounge-style meeting and reading area. Two separate exits at the front are designated, with the one closer to the fire escape alley serving as the main entrance for employees, while the other serves as the formal entrance for guests. The first and third units also have independent entrance. Internal arrangements prioritize the ease of movement for employees between different sections, with the third area featuring a tea room.

The prominent yellow corridor indoors gives each employee the feeling of walking on a celebrity-studded path. The floor is creatively tiled with geometric patterns, enhancing clarity in movement and adding vibrancy to different zones. The semi-transparency of the staircase handrails, made of straight-grain glass, acts as a partial screen.

Project Innovation/Need

The units originally had a dividing wall in between each other, the owner deemed it impractical to rely on a single entrance. It was determined that the entire space could be seamlessly opened up after structural calculations. Red barn doors serve as partitions in each internal space, allowing for the creation of independent small meeting rooms when needed, eliminating the need for dedicated rooms. The use of barn doors can effortlessly transform the space between enclosed and open, fostering a sense of "playful space."

Numerous LED light strips are incorporated into the space, with vertical light strips not only creating a starry pathway in the yellow corridor but also emphasizing the spatial divisions. The rust-like paint on the iron components, along with the LED strips, not only add to the distinction of the spaces but also a touch of technological sophistication.

The designer boldly incorporates a proportionally intricate red and yellow scheme while balancing the color palette with neutral tones like gray. Given the industrial theme, barn doors are utilized, painted red to reflect elements from the owner's hometown.

This design approach combines functionality and aesthetics, creating a dynamic and vibrant workspace that seamlessly transitions between different atmospheres and pays homage to the owner's roots.

Design Challenge

In older buildings like this, issues with plumbing, electrical wiring, and foundational structures often arise. The floor tiles, showing signs of wear and tear, contribute to a significant budget allocation for foundational work. This encompasses intricate tasks like organizing the wiring. Evaluation in this phase is challenging due to safety considerations in the office’s operations. Coordination among professionals in plumbing, electrical systems, and structural engineering is essential to ensure public and operational safety.

The possibility of opening up dividing walls needed structural engineering calculations, and the success of this design is owed to the feasibility of this initially perceived as impossible requirement, earning approval from the property owner.

Sustainability

The flooring utilizes the original floorboards without additional materials, as an industrial style doesn't require excessive building materials. For instance, the restroom is simply painted white, and the space requires minimal decoration.

Due to poor indoor natural lighting, an abundance of artificial lighting is necessary. With a large window positioned 50 centimeters above the ground, the design maximizes this feature to minimize the need for additional illumination.

Outdoor seating and a bar counter are provided, encouraging employees to socialize and build relationships with neighbors.