A German architecture firm turns a former logistics building into a well-natured office environment to serve its clients employees.
The office design for the German headquarters of the Husqvarna Group fits in an existing logistics building. DIA – Dittel Architekten created an attractive natural environment that suits the global operations of the international company while bringing employees together. By offering them a variety of exchange and collaborative space as well as contemplation and privacy zones, the design concept reflects both the needs and the identity of the global equipment manufacturer through landscape and garden maintenance.
When was the project completed?
2019
How much space (SF)?
17.000 (= 1580 qm)
Was this new or renovated space?
Renovated space
SF per person?
170 (=17.000/100)
Is there a mobile work or work from home policy? If so, what percent of employees are remote workers?
Yes, it has been established in 2019, therefore the percentage of remote workers is still low.
Describe workspace types.
The office space includes many different working situations to allow a modern working culture: Most of the space is open-plan including a desk sharing area. Besides, there are two enclosed group offices. Thanks to appropriate technical pre-installations, the open plan areas can be subdivided at any time.
What kind of meeting spaces are provided?
Having many different meeting spaces was one of the most important requests of the client. The concept offers a variety of multifunctional spaces which can be adapted to the employee’s needs such as exchange spaces, collaborative spaces, and ideation spaces. Furthermore, there are four video conference rooms, a large meeting space which can be divided into two smaller ones and three more meeting spaces. The glass separations allow an open feel while opaque curtains make presentations on big screens possible at any time.
What other kinds of support or amenity spaces are provided?
For concentrated working, there are some focus rooms available. The spacious communication and community zone in the center of the office brings people together and therefore is one of the most important areas. Here, employees can drink a coffee at the café counter and chat in the cozy sofa area.
What are the projects location and proximity to public transportation and/or other amenities?
The bus stop is directly in front of the building, a bus ride takes approx. 15 minutes to the city’s main station which has high-speed train access.
Was the “C” Suite involved in the project planning and design process? If so, how?
The “C” Suite and in particular the facility management department were involved in the whole planning process. Through workshops on concrete usage requirements, DIA was able to develop a design concept that reflects the needs of Husqvarna Group.
What kind of programming or visioning activities were used?
The interior designers, architects and digital experts of DIA see themselves as open-source designers – always looking for visionary ideas. In workshops, they introduced different modern ways of working and its effect on workplace design with the goal of developing a perfect symbiosis of future proof design and the corporate culture of Husqvarna.
Were any change management initiatives employed?
Husqvarna installed an internal platform at the very beginning of the project where videos and pictures were provided to all employees. Like this, they made sure they collect the feedback on any planning step and involved the employees as much as possible.
Was there any emphasis or requirements on programming for health and wellbeing initiatives for employees?
To create high-quality workplaces for the employees DIA ensured good room acoustics, best light conditions, fresh air, and ergonomic workstations. The green office benefits from many in-house plants of the company itself (Husqvarna Group is the world’s largest manufacturer of forestry, landscaping and gardening equipment)
What kind of branding elements were incorporated into the design?
The color and material palette primarily is neutral and natural but is complemented by two significant colors (green and yellow) which refer to the Husqvarna brand and create a fresh cool look. Furthermore, DIA developed a graphics concept which is placed on the glass walls in a filigree way.
What is the most unique feature of the new space?
The most unique feature is the fact that the new space is located in an existing logistics building. Combined with cozy, friendly details, a unique loft-like office atmosphere is created. Band windows were integrated into the partition wall between the office area and the high-rise warehouse. These allow a view into the latter and create a strong identification with the product and so with the company itself.
Are there any furnishings or spaces specifically included to promote wellness/wellbeing?
The communication area with plants, sofa, chairs, bar and café counter was designed to transport especially one message: feel good. Furthermore, sit-to-stand workstations provide movement throughout the day.
How did the company communicate the changes and moves?
The extension and moves have been communicated on the intranet, in the staff magazine (printed), at town hall meetings and in individual meetings with the people affected.
Tell us more!
Interior/Architects: Dittel Architketen
