space station

THE SUCCESS OF any company is closely tied to getting the most from its resources. Maximising the functionality of every last inch of office space, especially in smaller environments, will ensure greater productivity.

For property development company Redez Properties, maximising space was the paramount issue in the renovation of its offices, says Susanne Zeidler, executive director and senior partner at design firm, zlgdesign.

"Our design work is known for its functional simplicity," says Zeidler. "The Redez offices gave us the opportunity to pare back the design process to an almost residential, minimalist aesthetic and yet provide a space that functions in a business environment."

Central to the minimalist ethos is the nominal use of colour and materials, and the almost stark lineal features of the furniture and fixtures.

"In this case a strong textured timber veneer used on the walls and ceiling and repeated in the tables enhances our holistic design concept of utmost simplicity. Continuing the panelling onto the ceiling creates a sculptural space and eliminates the boundary between wall and ceiling."

Eliminating some boundaries and pushing the accepted notion of others is a predominant effect within the Redez offices. All doors have been designed to sit flush with the wall treatment to create a seamless finish that further minimises usual office details such as filing space and bathrooms.

Gone is the usual reception area, replaced with a multi-functional bar counter and waiting area that has been designed for informal discussion, relaxation and as a casual staff meeting point. Furniture pieces too designed and custom-made by zlgdesign go beyond the norm of office furniture and have been designated as objets d'art in an otherwise unadorned space.

Rounding out the aesthetic is the office of the company's director, which was designed to reflect a living room environment, says Zeidler.

"Warm and soft interior design elements have been used sheer curtain, carpet and dark-grey coloured walls to complement the casual lounge area within the office and to create a homely feel."

Completed in less than two months, the design concept is non-conventional, however the essential elements of an office have been maintained visual privacy is preserved where needed and functionality has been assured.

Story by: Trendsideas