PRIVATE OFFICE EXPANSION

A retrofit expansion connecting three levels.

Our approach started from the reception configuration on the 18th floor to provide a memorable welcome experience through the breath-taking view over Frankfurt. By creating only low-level islands and see-through fit-out furniture we ensured the visitors and staff members can connect with the outside as much as possible.

The challenge of the retrofit expansion spread over 3 floors was to connect one another. Previously accessible only via lifts and lobbies, an internal staircase was to be added to create a flexible workspace which supports both collaborative and focused working. By adding the internal stairs in the middle of the 3 floors we centralised the hospitality space in order to cater to everyone. The staircase treated as a design feature is made of a thin black grid and appears to be suspended in the void.

The function and flow of the each zone throughout the day was critical when designing the joinery items which act as carefully composed monolithic blocks. The outcome resonates with the ‘Bauhaus‘ principles and modernist architecture which is clearly recognisable in the sculptural self-catering islands and reception desk in their use of materials, colours and grid.

Photography: Nicholas Worley