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The design of the Warsaw office of Heimstaden directly corresponds to the specifics of the company and transfers the warmth of home to the work space. The effect was achieved through the appropriate layout of the rooms, a calm color base and the presence of fabrics and wood.
Homely in Heimstaden Poland
photo: Kroniki Studio
The Swedish company Heimstaden is engaged in long-term rental of apartments, and its idea is expressed by the slogan "Friendly Homes." The design of its Warsaw office by AKA Studio refers to the company's values. The architects created a space where employees feel at home. By using an appropriate room layout, well-chosen materials, a calm color base and functional furniture, they managed to create a pleasant, homey space where they want to stay and work. We wanted to find a balance between work and rest, being together and apart," comments Karolina Kowalik.
Homely in Heimstaden Poland
Photo: Kroniki Studio
Reception area
The impression of homeliness greets us already in the reception area. It is introduced by the reception counter designed by the architects, veneered with oak in natural color. The second uniquely designed element is an openwork bookcase, the design of which refers to the Scandinavian style. An interesting treatment is the lampery, evoking nostalgic associations. Against its background, lounge furniture was exposed, in subdued earth colors.
Homely in Heimstaden Poland
Photo: Kroniki Studio
Kitchen and lounge area
Building a sense of comfort and well-being is supported by a large common space that combines several functions - kitchen, dining and living room with a gaming area. The focal point is definitely the kitchen, the place for employee integration and the heart of the office. Adjacent to it is a dining room with a large wooden social table, to which chairs from different collections have been selected, which accentuates the less formal character of this space. Nearby, we also find a mix of upholstered furniture in distinctive colors that create a lounge area. Bars - one by the kitchen and another by the window, which overlooks the bustling surroundings of Lublin Union Square - also invite you to sit down with a coffee or laptop. Meanwhile, from a wooden bench, you can cheer on players playing foosball or darts. The bench transitions into wainscoting, which in turn transitions into the lockers necessary in modern offices. This multifunctional oak veneered element was designed specifically for the project. The architects' conscious use of many elements veneered with natural oak introduces a cozy atmosphere that soothes the senses. The homeliness is also built up by the furniture: bookcases, cabinets and chests of drawers - designed by the architects and made by local craftsmen from natural materials. The effect is further enhanced by vegetation and flowing red, slightly oriental carpets. An artistic, unique element of the common area are large-format prints by Zuza Gadomska. Their design refers to the nature of the company's business, so they graphically depict a metropolitan lifestyle. Complementing the urban themes is a graphic depicting a paradise jungle, which is an alternative to typical green walls.
Homely in Heimstaden Poland
Photo credit: Kroniki Studio
Workplaces
A separate zone is made up of spaces designed for productive work. During the workshop, the architects, together with the investor, worked out a layout that meets the requirements of employees and is adapted to the specifics of each department. Thus, call center employees occupy closed rooms, while less formal departments, whose work involves cooperation with other departments, occupy an open part of the office. All these zones are separated by meeting rooms and focus rooms, so as to make the most of the available space. Phone booths are also located in the open areas, which are great for online meetings. Each workstation is equipped with an adjustable desk, allowing employees to work alternately - once standing and once sitting. This allows employees to activate their muscles, a health-promoting change in posture and improve blood circulation in the body. In addition, equipping the office with comfortable office chairs, ergonomic stools or balance balls additionally helps take care of proper posture and muscle relaxation.
Homely in Heimstaden Poland
Photo: Kroniki Studio
It was important for us to preserve as many already existing technical elements of the office that could be adapted to the new functional layout. In our projects we try to use and recycle elements found after previous tenants. As in the project for Heimstaden, we used about 80% of the existing wiring. We selected local manufacturers, operating in Poland and Europe, to minimize the carbon footprint. We are glad that also for Heimstaden thinking and acting in a sustainable way is something natural- comments Agata Lapuchowska.
AKA Studio in the project also acted as Project Manager, that is, it was responsible for coordinating all stages of the investment. This holistic approach is typical of the studio.
Homely in Heimstaden Poland
Photo: Kroniki Studio
