Office Concept V7N3 | Workplace Interior Design and Modern Office Furniture

VOL.7 NO.3 OCT - JAN 2015 SGD13 (Incl. GST) BND13 AUD13.95 HKD80 THB295 PHP295 IDR70000 MYR15/18 (W.M/E.M)

DB&B: DESIGNING COMMERCIAL SPACES IN DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES GARDEN PARTY | SOFA SO GOOD | LEAN AND GREEN | HOT SEAT STANDING OVATION | NATURAL ATTRACTION | A LIGHT TOUCH

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

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A REVITALISED LOOK

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n this new issue, we strove to showcase projects that have developed along this line of thought. We are proud to feature the work of DB&B on our main editorial pages. Maintaining a steadfast presence in the area of commercial interiors, the Singaporean design group has truly come a long way. The redesign of their regional headquarters represents a milestone in the firm’s 18-year journey as it moves on to its next prolific stage. Over the years, it’s been our privilege to get to know so many impressive firms throughout the Asia Pacific. We are always pleased to make new friends and hear from potential collaborators, particularly from those across the pond in Australia.

There are different ways of thinking about innovation. For us, the process involves merging the past and present to usher forth a better future.

In our Entrée and Fitting interior sections, we shake things up with selections from some of today’s most noteworthy brands - Space Furniture, Kusch+Co and Schiavello are just a few of the many cutting edge names that we are delighted to spotlight. We also nod to iconic designs that have achieved new resonance: Girsberger’s G 125 stool – a stunning reinterpretation of the humble piano stool that established the Swiss brand - was launched on occasion of its 125th anniversary, while Danish designer Paul Henningsen’s 120th birthday was given its due with a limited edition revival of the original PH 3½ – 3 lampshade. On that illustrious note, we encourage firms and designers interested in showcasing exceptional workspace products to write us at ideas@officeconcept.asia. One never knows where a casual introduction and indeed, a simple idea, can lead.

As 2014 draws to a close, we look forward to welcoming 2015 with exciting plans to expand our international distribution network in the coming year. It is our hope that this will enable us to heighten our momentum in bringing you the most inspiring office environments out there.

It’s truly been a pleasure.

Kenneth Khu kenneth@officeconcept.asia

Series 8000 by Kusch+Co

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OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

CONTENT

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE A REVITALISED LOOK

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ENTRÉE

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STRENGTHENING DB&B’S PRESENCE IN ASIA A DESIGN JOURNEY ENGINE FOR GROWTH EMPOWERING LEADERSHIP A HEALTHY CHANGE BUILDING EVOLUTION CLEAR EXPRESSION LOFT EXPANSION URBAN OASIS

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LEADERSHIP VIEWPOINTS CHAMPION OF DANISH CLASSICS ALL THAT IT TAKES : DO IT BETTER & BETTER

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OFFICE CONCEPT

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V7N3 | OCT - JAN 2015

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FITTING INTERIORS ROAD SHOW EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGE GARDEN PARTY SOFA SO GOOD LEAN AND GREEN BRACE YOURSELF HOT SEAT CHAIRS TO BOOST CONCENTRATION STANDING OVATION NATURAL ATTRACTION STYLE + SUBSTANCE DESIGN IS VALUE CREATION

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THE SOCIAL CIRCLE A LIGHT TOUCH

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CONTENT & TEAM

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CHAMPION OF DANISH CLASSICS

by CHS, Knud Erik Hansen

ALL THAT IT TAKES: DO IT BETTER & BETTER

by DB&B, Billy Siew

CONTENT MANAGING EDITOR Kenneth Khu EDITOR Pang Yin Ying ASSISTANT EDITOR Mandy Chin CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Adele Chong CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Dorothy Lung ART DIRECTOR Eric Phoon SENIOR DESIGNER Sandy Liew G 125 by Girsberger

EMAILS ADVERTISING advertising@officeconcept.asia EDITORIAL editorial@officeconcept.asia CONTRIBUTION ideas@officeconcept.asia SUBSCRIPTION subscribe@officeconcept.asia WEBSITE www.officeconcept.asia MAGAZINE OFFICE CONCEPT is published three times a year and is circulated throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Opinions expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by the publisher.

CONTACT MEDIA EDGE PUBLICATIONS 1001 Block D Tiara Kelana, Jalan SS7/19 Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.

T: +603 7887 4525

COPYRIGHT NOTICE All rights, including copyright, in the content of this publication are owned by Media Edge Publications, Malaysia. You are not permitted to copy, broadcast, download, store in any medium, transmit, show or play in public, adapt or change any in any way the content of this publication for any other purpose whatsoever without the prior written permission of Media Edge Publications, Malaysia.

PERMIT NUMBER KDN PP15689/11/2013(033144), MCI(P) 044/01/2014

OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

A LIGHT TOUCH

by Studio Integrate

COMPANY PUBLISHER Kenneth Khu BUSINESS MANAGER Edmond Lee BUSINESS EXECUTIVE Kelvin Ong

PRINTER GRAMEDIA PRINTING GROUP Kompas Gramedia Building Jl. Palmerah Selatan no 22-28 Jakarta 10270 - Indonesia.

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PHOTO CREDITS COVER: DB&B SECTION OPENER: DESIGN & BUILD DB&B LEADERSHIP VIEWPOINTS CARL HANSEN & SØN FITTNG INTERIORS SCHIAVELLO THE SOCIAL CIRCLE CARL HANSEN & SØN & INTERFACE

[ magazine ] | print + online

ENTRÉE

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GO FIGURE Suggestive of the natural landscape, the 101 chair’s fluid structure commands a bold yet thoughtful presence. Playing up the emphasis on interaction, tactility and play, this sculptural armchair by designer Helen Kontouris emerged as a result of transforming a ribbon-like movement into contoured seating. The materials - moulded fiberglass and wool felt fabric – ultimately give it a modern yet classically cozy feel. www.schiavello.com

DREAM CATCHER What do you get when a Japanese starchitect and an esteemed Danish furniture company decide to work together? The answer is the Dream chair. The brainchild of Tadao Ando and Carl Hansen & Son, this sculptural wonder was conceived as a tribute to Hans J. Wegner. Created with three-dimensional form pressed veneer plywood, the “floating” design pushes the boundaries of the material, staying true to Ando’s penchant for innovation. www.spacefurniture.com

NEW CLASSIC The revitalised Tongue chair pairs the artistry of Danish design great Arne Jacobsen with the engineering prowess of Howe. Jacobsen’s second completed chair design after his iconic Ant chair, the Tongue was first realised in 1955. Fans of the designer’s work will instantly recognise his hallmarks in the seat’s organic wave-like form as well as the crisp Scandinavian wood veneer finishes. An upholstered version is also available. www.howe.com

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OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

ENTRÉE

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PURE SYMMETRY The MN1 by Howe consciously sets itself apart from run-of-themill meeting and conference chairs by promoting comfort as well as streamlined design. Fashioned with ergonomics in mind, this stylish piece is designed for multiple uses. A FSC certified veneer back frame finished in a range of classic wood shades and quality upholstery give it a subtly vintage feel, reinforcing the notion of power seating. www.howe.com

LIGHTEN UP Simplicity is key with respect to the Circo chair. The light, pared down design by Justus Kolberg heightens the emphasis on tried and trusted proportions as well as modern manufacturing techniques. The result of a complex single injection moulded piece, the minimalist framework features a hidden pivot mechanism.

The use of 3D spacer mesh for the backrest facilitates breathability, making Circo a comfortable, long-term perch. www.zenithinteriors.com.au

TURNING POINT Fraught with sensuous curves in all the right places, the Series 600 Sao Paolo chair brims with modern style. Created as an office or visitor’s chair, its sleek design sensibility is conveyed through its trapezoidal backrest and a thoughtfully curved lumbar area. Made to accommodate shifting postures, the chair’s sophisticated dual synchronised mechanism ergonomically corrects the sitter’s position, making the chair a therapeutic as well as aesthetic sit-down. www.kusch.com | | | | | |

OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

ENTRÉE

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SHAPE SHIFTER Studio Integrate’s cutting edge approach to everyday products often address the impact of computation on modern society.

This idea is poetically epitomised by the Flux table. Taking a cue from the geometrical patterns found in Islamic art or architecture, Flux’s complex design is made possible via digital fabrication techniques. Fashioned from polyurethane-coated foam, this unusual glass-topped table makes a statement through its rhomboid contour base. www.studiointegrate.com

LIVING LARGE This exquisite collection of armchairs by Lievore Altherr Molina says volumes about the Spanish design collective’s penchant for colours and shapes. Endowed with a generously sized seat, the Colina gives rise to a roomy lounger as well as an indelibly elegant silhouette. Guaranteed to perk up the ambience of homes and offices, one has the option of choosing from a selection of idiosyncratic bases when it comes to these plush, varyingly sized pieces. www.spacefurniture.com

SEEING THE LIGHT Equipped with every major light source imaginable, the ever-prepared Zak lamp has it all. Halogen, incandescent or LED lights are confined within the framework of its quirky design, giving the user a world of choices. There’s something specific for every kind of light-related emergency, be it a small incandescent bulb that functions as a courtesy light to rechargeable LEDs that come in handy during an unexpected black-out. www.zavaluce.it |

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CRAFTING THE PAST In commemoration of its 125th anniversary, Swiss furniture brand Girsberger went back to its roots. What culminated is an inventive take on the height-adjustable piano stool that became the company’s signature product during its early days as a woodworking shop. Oozing modern style and old school craftsmanship, the G125 marries a classical sensibility with intelligent technology through its U-shaped seat and tempered steel backrest which also serves as a flexible torsion rod. www.girsberger.com

REBIRTH OF COOL Marking Paul Henningsen’s 120th birthday, the limited edition launch of the PH 31/2 – 3 Copper lampshade – one of the most prolific models in the Danish designer’s famous PH System – has design fans on the edge of their seats. First designed in 1929, this distinctive model adheres to Henningsen’s original vision down to the last detail. New materials such as untreated copper and mouth-blown opal glass give the classic design a fresh take. www.spacefurniture.com OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

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Beijing

Shanghai

Manila

Bangkok

Kuala Lumpur Singapore

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DB&B Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia was founded

The Group’s robust growth takes another milestone in Bangkok, Thailand.

Inception of DB&B Singapore.

STRENGTHENING DB&B’S PRESENCE IN ASIA The DB&B Group started with 20 employees in Singapore. Focusing on a niche domain in the commercial interiors, they quickly rose to become one of the leading players in the industry.

Eighteen years later, the Group expanded into five countries with 6 offices in the region, servicing a gamut of evolving needs from conceptualising a Leadership Academy, transforming a build-to-suit expo building to refurbishing a marketing Gallery. They recently refurbished their Singapore HQ to cater to their future expansion and address their expanding repertoire of clients.

The Group continues to refine their trade expertise and unique strategies to remain competitive. This includes upholding a different perspective when looking into business relationships, design applications and construction process as we reveal in the stories to follow. www.dbb.com OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

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A DESIGN JOURNEY

DB&B re-designs their regional headquarters with the concept of building from scratch.

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DB&B Office Singapore | 7,000 square feet | Design & Build Application in progress for Green Mark Certification

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SINGAPORE

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DB&B OFFICE

Turning 18 years old is a key milestone for any company; more so for a corporation comprised of six regional offices. Flourishing in the Asia Pacific region, DB&B recently refurbished their Singapore Headquarters to reflect their design journey. The new office, with its activity-based features, not only fosters the creative process but also showcases the design firm’s time-tested expertise.

EVOLUTION The design team was given the brief to fit a growing number of headcount within the same area. A momentous project for the design team, they took this opportunity to perfectly capture the essence of DB&B’s work in the new space.

As if to illustrate the company’s journey, which has grown from a beginning of 20 ambitious people to a group of 450 people regionally today, the concept of ‘building from scratch’ was proposed. The simple pitch translated seamlessly into a spatial metaphor that depicted the business practice.

Cohesively delivered, the layout and finishes engage users in a transitional experience starting from a raw start at the back office to a functional and polished finish at the reception.

“In a way, it’s a proud reflection of what we do as interior designers.

The back of office is treated with raw finishes, open ceiling and cement flooring because the interior design process starts with an empty space.

As the design process comes into development stage, the idea takes a more sophisticated form as reflected in the middle of house. Finally, the front of the house is a showcase of the fully furnished idea,” says Lowell Law who leads the design team for this project.

LEFT: With a design concept of ‘building from scratch’, the layout and finishes begin with a raw look at the back of the office to a more polished finish at the reception.

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“In the context of a design journey, discovery becomes insights when one looks at the same matter in a whole new perspective.�

SINGAPORE

DB&B OFFICE

DISCOVERY The concept also offers a sense of discovery. In the context of a design journey, discovery becomes insights when one looks at the same matter in a whole new perspective.

To encourage this, DB&B’s office presents many work settings that may trigger a novel perception or experience. A different location in the office offers a different stimulus, which consequently allows the users to re-orientate themselves, given the hour of the day and tasks at hand.

Within the limited space, there are ample provisions for various settings – from focused desks, open benches, huddle corners to meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology for better visual connectivity with overseas collaborators. The vibrancy of these settings comes from an open internal traffic that is planned to fluidly inspire the convergence of ideas and serendipitous encounters.

ABOVE: The DB&B office is made up of various work settings with specific locations to boost productivity, promote creativity and provide relaxation.

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A SMART SHOWCASE As an advocate for smart workspace, DB&B walks the talk by choosing functional furnishings and finishes to enhance the overall working experience.

For instance, the conference room boasts of integrated light ceiling that reduce echo and cast-shadow during video conferences disrupting otherwise productive conversations. The room is also controlled by heat sensor and timer to eliminate inefficient energy usage.

In the collaboration area, which is parked along the window, photocell sensors are fitted along the perimeters to maintain an ideal level between indoor and outdoor brightness.

For a visual retreat, a stretch of green plants are potted along the window for optimum sun exposure. Together with green label carpet, laminate and other finishes that emit low respiratory toxic chemicals, these plants offer natural filter to indoor air quality.

In the main think tank area, recycled materials such as compressed woodchips planters and solid wood trellis are used. These woodwork and cabinetry are done in-house at the local fabrication facility located at Eunos.

ABOVE: Materials Library with easy access from designer’s area

SINGAPORE

DB&B OFFICE

COUNTING ON PRECISION Managing internal expectations is often harder when perfection is the standard. When it came to constructing their own offices, DB&B took this opportunity as an exercise to fine tune their methods and processes.

At the design stage, they finessed the process from enhancing 3D visuals to producing true to scale construction drawings. In effect, the teams were able to improve site markings to aid decision makers with better scale and accuracy.

As their own client, DB&B enforced stringent requirements in health and safety. An impartial assessor team was formed to test, check and monitor the site progress daily to ensure that protocols and field reports tallied.

The office is applying for Green Mark certification, which will be awarded upon successful application at the end of this year.

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ENGINE FOR GROWTH

A recent recipient of the Best Office Interior Award at the International Property Awards 2014, Pratt & Whitney’s office features precisionengineered finishes for a cutting edge and authentic industrial feel.

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Pratt & Whitney Singapore | 47,000 square feet | Design & Build

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‘Engine for Growth’ is a concept symbolising Pratt & Whitney’s core businesses and identity as a new entrant to the ASEAN market – Phillips Connor, Senior Creative Director.

SINGAPORE

PRATT & WHITNEY

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When Pratt & Whitney decided to build their flagship location for their Global Service Partners businesses across Singapore, they didn’t want to have just another office. What they envisioned was an extraordinary space that would connect their different business units and reaffirm themselves as a world-leading maintenance, repair and over-haul (MRO) service provider in the aerospace industry.

For this challenging task, they approached DB&B for their design consultancy services. They were convinced with the design firm’s capabilities, so they also tasked them to do the construction.

THE OVERALL CONCEPT The project was headed by Phillips Connor, DB&B’s Senior Creative Director. The concept encompassed a synchronistic modular approach to suit the unique business compartmentalisation. At the same time, it provided a flexible, future-adaptable foot print. “Our holistic approach applies a language of aeronautical & aerospace elements that pervades the planning, form, detailing and finishing of all spaces. ‘Engine for Growth’ is a concept symbolising Pratt & Whitney’s core businesses and identity as a new entrant to the ASEAN market,” Connor explained.

In designing the three-storey office space, he and the design team opted for the aerospace theme, which is reflected in the features and detailing used for areas such as the arrival lobbies, stairs, lifts, partitions, ceiling, lighting and meeting rooms. A perfect example is the jet engine LED light fixture, which is placed in the central nexus on each floor. In a way, it’s also there to symbolise the ‘heart’ of the ‘engine’ as this is the shared area where diverse groups can hang out or chill in a newly collaborative way.

The breakout area is located in the middle of the ‘spine’ – a sort of runway that connects the public and private areas, but segregates the office from the adjacent industrial premises.

All three levels are easily connected via staircases.

LEFT: In designing the three-storey office space, the design team applied the aerospace theme, which is reflected in the features and detailing used for areas such as the arrival lobby and stairs.

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SINGAPORE

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PRATT & WHITNEY

DETAILS IN THE DESIGN One thing notable about DB&B is their attention to detail when they designed the offices. In terms of the overall look and feel, they chose precision engineered finishes for a cutting edge and authentic industrial feel. Throughout all three office levels, a metallic palette with contrasting accents of yellow, cyan and black was used to stimulate, inspire and direct. You can see these pops of colours in the conference and meeting rooms, where the grey carpets are lined with bright and lively colours.

An added design element is the curated collection of historical photographic prints. These pictures are decked on the walls of the meeting and conference rooms to subtly reflect the longevity, values and stature of the company.

LEFT: The aerospace theme is also reflected in the central nexus of each floor with the use of a jet engine LED light fixture. Throughout all three office levels, pops of colours are used in the conference and meeting rooms.

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SINGAPORE

PRATT & WHITNEY

The unique features aren’t exclusive to the employee areas, but in the lobbies as well. At the main reception area, one can find the spirit cloud feature wall inspired by air movement. This eye-catching perforated panel is where Pratt & Whitney’s logo is placed, adding to that dramatic effect upon entrance.

The way DB&B pushed the design boundaries to create Pratt & Whitney’s office was unlike any other, and for the reason, the office has won the Best Office Interior Award at the International Property Awards 2014.

BOTH: Meeting and training rooms are equipped with the latest technology, such as the smartboard and speakers, to facilitate smooth communication whenever and wherever.

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EMPOWERING LEADERSHIP DB&B designs an iconic space for Samsung Leadership Academy

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Samsung Leadership Academy Singapore | 12,000 square feet | Design & Build

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“We wanted the Leadership Academy to be relevant to the large demographic represented in the company, essentially targeting everyone from new recruits to the senior leadership,�

-Phillips Connor, Senior Creative Director

SINGAPORE

SAMSUNG LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

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Samsung Asia launched their flagship Leadership Academy in Singapore as a commitment to cultivate their growing talent pool. Occupying the same block at Mapletree Business City, the partner of choice for this innovative space was DB&B, which successfully designed and built their 80,000 square feet regional headquarters in 2012. With a goal to provide an iconic space that would inspire their regional and local talents, the design firm mapped the floorplate with a completely open plan.

A NEED FOR SPACE A preset challenge was a timeline that targeted a fixed date for the first regional training. Conveniently, Samsung Asia and DB&B have established a common ground from the first project. The designer understood Samsung’s culture and guidelines, which crossed the first hurdle right away.

The brief called for a space to host various sizes of delegates who would be attending corporate events, trainings and seminars.

Taking the brief a step further, DB&B proactively engaged Samsung in a series of in-depth dialogues to capture the significance of the Leadership Academy.

“I talked to the client all the time. They had a lot of activities and events that we wished to capture, with them being a regional facility.

We wanted the Leadership Academy to be relevant to the large demographic represented in the company, essentially targeting everyone from new recruits to the CEO,” says Phillips Connor, Senior Creative Director

LEFT: Samsung’s main lobby is accented with round pendant lights that echo the corporate elliptical symbol.

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SINGAPORE

SAMSUNG LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

THE PLAN WITH WALLS Perhaps the most impressive feature of all is the southeastern expanse along the window. The walls from amphitheater to a stretch of adjoining training rooms are fully operable, enabling a possibility to completely open the area when needed. This maximises the holding capacity to 250 people, adequately meeting with surplus Samsung’s original intentions.

Quite dramatically, the open space is set against an unobstructed view of the Harbourfront. The vastness extends along the perimeter, providing visual rejuvenation and connectivity that envelopes all major areas.

In contrast to the flexible operable walls is the semi-enclosed VIP lounge. The dark timber feature walls are crafted with precision on both sides to convey an exclusive atmosphere. Carefully curated light and shadow balance corresponds to the natural sun movement, further enhancing the overall ambiance.

LEFT: Breakout areas are strategically placed along the glass windows to offer an unobstructed view of the outdoor area.

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SINGAPORE

SAMSUNG LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

THE BRAND PRESENCE Samsung’s distinctive brand attributes claim the look and feel of the space. The elliptical theme, a proud marker of Samsung identity, cohesively pervades the design expression from carpet patterns to the 300mm timber wall dividing the reception and VIP lounge. A central feature to the theme is an elliptical wall that ultimately enfolds the amphitheater.

With a seating capacity of 64 people, the amphitheater is built to suit Samsung’s theater systems. The consistent theme is fluidly expressed with an elliptical plaster and acrylic ceiling that mirrored the patterns on the carpet. Careful attention is paid to the lighting and distance between seats to ensure a conducive learning environment.

Natural palette finishes with blue accent are cohesively applied to surface materials to convey stability and diffuse distractions. A mix of carpet patterns laid in curvatures and slopes are designed to infuse dynamism, unity and a sense of movement.

Despite the compressed timeline, the project was completed successfully and has been open for corporate use as intended.

TOP: Dark timber is used in the pantry walls to give the room a warm touch. An impressive key feature is the Samsung logo shape, etched on the wood.

LEFT: The most impressive feature is the operable walls in the training rooms, which can fully open the space and fit a maximum of 250 people.

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A HEALTHY CHANGE When the client and design firm have a lively relationship, a positive change takes place.

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McDonald’s Singapore | 14,500 square feet | Design & Build

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SINGAPORE

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MCDONALD’S

UNDERSTANDING THE CLIENT

There is always room for change, and this is always good within a workplace. Before this happens, one has to first understand the clients’ needs, work styles, and how change might be good for them.

“In the beginning, we engaged a wide representative of employees on all levels in work-shopping sessions. This is to ensure positive communications about the “change” were broadcasted to everyone, a crucial step to make people feel involved in the process,” said Phillips Connor, the lead designer in this project.

Findings through a series of dialogues revealed that McDonald’s new workspace needed to meet employee satisfaction, cater for frequent travellers and feature a variety of “social” zones that would improve staff collaboration and integration.

Working with this brief, the design firm came up with a holistic proposal that pushed the envelope of design, brand integration and new ways of working. DB&B developed a range of alternative work settings for initial review and helped McDonald’s understand the features and benefits of each. “We accomplished this with the help of the client’s feedback to these ideas,” said Jason Pang, Project Director.

ALL: DB&B developed a range of alternative work settings to cater to their employees’ different work habits.

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DESIGN FOR THE PEOPLE DB&B’s original proposal was to create a homely office that is comfortable and conducive to the different work needs and style. The idea stemmed from McDonald’s brand leading association to comfort and personal services.

The design firm realised this idea by planning the office according to the activity and noise levels. Herein, the different business units were plotted in different zones that are optimised to their comfort level.

Open, interconnected workspaces and clear enclosed rooms lend a sense of connectivity and inclusion.

Modular furniture supports interactive activities and personal flexibility. Common areas, such as ‘family tree’, breakout spaces and meeting bays are designed to cater for different work preference.

The vibrant workspace is also permeated with indoor greeneries for refreshment and rejuvenation. A ‘jungle corner’ equipped with solo pods were designed for private work lounge overlooking scenery at the window.

“The completed office offers a new definition to space that extends beyond traditional ways of working and challenges the pyramidal corporate hierarchy.

It celebrates shared community spaces that are accessible to all,” says Connor.

ALL: Organic elements are infused with the graphics to create a distinct design throughout the space.

SINGAPORE

MCDONALD’S

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BUILDING EVOLUTION DB&B Shanghai transforms the expo pavilion into a world-class commercial hub.

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Shanghai Expo Shanghai, China | 300,000 square feet | Design & Build

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SHANGHAI

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SHANGHAI EXPO

Though DB&B is known for their commercial interiors expertise, they are always up for a challenge. The chance came when they were tasked to refurbish The World Expo Central and South American Pavilions in Pudong, China.

Considered as one of DB&B’s most significant undertakings, the project revealed not only their expertise in design and build but also their unique approach to the business.

LEFT: Formerly a steel mill, the design team decided to retain its structural charm and aimed for the old and new to co-exist.

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SHANGHAI

SHANGHAI EXPO

DESIGN TRANSFORMATION To many people, the expo building signifies a major moment in history. In particular, the north facing pavilion is affectionately associated with the prolific skeletal exteriors, which was salvaged from an old steel mill structure.

Well aware of the cultural significance of this project, the DB&B design team in Shanghai was tasked to design a building that would be sensitive to the public’s reception and would also represent the new business prospects.

Aptly given the momentum, they came up with a concept that captured the essence of time – “Evolution” is a discourse between the old and the new.

The design team’s intention was for the old and the new to co-exist. Their main design objective was to capture the transformation experience through symbolism and spatial applications.

The first application that took place on a surface level suggested “transformation”, which could be found on polygon landscaping at the exterior, polyline-shaped reception desk and the lobby ceiling models. The second application was a subtle metaphoric expression of “time conversion”, which took place on the long light bars at the public atrium ceiling.

LEFT: ’Transformation’ is symbolised with the somewhat unpredictable polyline-shaped ceiling elements.

BOTTOM: Common recreational facilities such as cafeteria and outdoor lounges in the building are fitted with the highest quality finishes.

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STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATION

BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION

Respecting the grandeur of the original design, the team preserved the building’s exteriors whilst transforming the interiors into a functional commercial space. The original structure consists of two adjoining blocks - A and B. For holding exhibitions, the halls exist with minimal interiors marking that accompanies a double volume atrium at Block B.

As an up and coming business hub, the site benefits from numerous incentives. Geographically, it is located within a short drive to Shanghai’s Financial Hub. This translates into benefits from rental savings and close proximity to city centers. Furthermore, central planning has also revealed future development for public recreational amenities in the area.

When DB&B stepped in, an additional level was built to split the vertical space to maximise the real estate. Shuttling between the levels are newly fitted guest elevators, further enhancing the theme of progress and movement within the grand space.

Seizing this opportunity early, the project team marched on the mission to transform this location into a lively business center.

Leasing the entire building from the government, the plan was to lease back the real estate with an added interiors built to suit to the customers. The team capitalised on DB&B’s established networks and in-depth commercial expertise to develop the pavilions into an attractive commercial hub.

Apart from planning for the commercial offices, DB&B also planned for public spaces such as the café, guest lounge and the food court. A distinct touch from the Singapore born design firm is a bench style seating at food court, which was an adaptation from Singapore’s space efficient food court.

RIGHT: The team preserved the building’s exteriors while transforming the interiors into a functional commercial space.

Common recreational facilities such as cafeteria and outdoor lounges in the building are fitted with the highest quality finishes with regard to efficiency and internal flow. For the tenants and clients, the office interiors are designed to suit their vision by the award winning DB&B Shanghai studio. One of the happy clients is China’s largest communications agency, Blue Focus.

The project is a commercial success, boasting full occupancy rate

by September 2014.

SHANGHAI

SHANGHAI EXPO

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CLEAR EXPRESSION DB&B connects over 600 employees in a vibrant workspace.

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HIBU Taguig City, Philippines | 42,000 square feet | Design & Build

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HIBU is a global provider of internet services.

Their range of expertise starts from web building to leads generation. When the company reached out to DB&B Philippines to fit out their office, the team took the challenge with positive enthusiasm.

They were tasked to accommodate a headcount over 600 people. Inter-level connectivity as well as space planning were the key focus of this project.

PHILIPPINES

HIBU

DESIGNING FOR ONENESS From the beginning, the client was very specific about their needs. They wanted an open space where artists and executives could collaborate freely. While this may sound simple, to execute three levels with consistent connectivity took careful planning. Internal dynamics, work routines and personal spaces were considered in the plan to retain the sense of ownership.

The company occupies level 27, 28 and 29. The main reception can be found on level 27, while level 28 and 29 are agent floors. Executed in phases, the project completed the lower levels before moving on to the next level. In the duration of the project, communications through internal and other feedback channels were open so that client’s decision makers, employees and designer would take away an equally positive design experience.

In the design process, the designer considered HIBU’s 24 hours, 6 days a week business operations. There are many users sharing the furnishings on a daily basis, as such lockers are provided to keep personal belongings.

This means the space must be built for durability and ease of use, which narrows the choice of materials as well. For instance, carpet of the general area is made of nylon. Other durable materials such as leather were used for the meeting room seating.

TOP LEFT: Layers of textures stacked against light, minimalist vertical surface to direct eyes away from the ceiling height.

TOP RIGHT: Open break out area for employees to chill.

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TRANSPARENCY AND RICH TEXTURES In maximising the full space capacity, the number of enclosed rooms were reduced. Glass and transparent materials, together with low panel partitions, maintain visual connectivity and openness.

Nevertheless, the office is far from plain. Wall decals and branding elements are splashed strategically to bring out HIBU’s corporate expression.

In addressing the low ceiling height, DB&B’s designer used light touches on the furnishings and design elements to avoid ‘heaviness’ in the built environment. As a result of the minimal colours used, HIBU’s corporate purple stands out consistently, achieving unity throughout the floors. The use of glass allows daylight to penetrate to the general work area, which are parked along the windows.

In keeping with a rectilinear concept, workstations were kept low and frameless, complementing the clean lines from the general work area to the carpets. Designed as point of interests to showcase their broad range of business, hallway panels with circle glass were furnished with decorative stickers that represent the small to medium enterprises that HIBU caters to.

Overall, the workspace is rich in textures and layers of shapes that understand the internal dynamics. Upon the success of this project, the design firm has continued to design for HIBU’s expansion in other locations.

RIGHT: Agent’s workstations are fitted with low partitons so that they retain some privacy in the open concept.

PHILIPPINES

HIBU

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LOFT EXPANSION DB&B Beijing designs China’s NCF Group with growth in mind.

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NCF Group Beijing, China | 31,000 square feet | Design & Build

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BEIJING

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NCF GROUP

Designing for a client at the height of their expansion is a vital moment for any design company. It presents them with a chance to positively influence the users’ behaviour through a thoughtfully planned workspace.

When NCF Group, a bourgeoning financial IT company, approached DB&B Beijing to design and build for their expansion, the design firm took the challenge and came back with a game-changer.

A BLANK SLATE DB&B was presented with a simple brief to meet NCF Group’s new headcount. From a traditional office cladded with high panels and dark wood, the company was shifting to a two-level space at the city central. Optimising the added vertical advantage, DB&B built a mezzanine level for additional meeting spaces.

The client’s open brief allowed the design firm to work with a blank canvas. After a closer look into their nature of business, current work culture and the space itself, the Beijing studio helmed by Warren Wee proposed a completely new take from their traditional office.

“The CEO is very young, he’s 36 years old and his team is very energetic. The dynamic spirit of the company, together with the bustling city inspired us to move away from the previous compartmentalisation. As we continued to discuss the vision ahead, it became clear to us that a transformation was needed,” says Wee. LEFT: DB&B came up with a vibrant concept to capture the dynamic beat of the users.

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BEIJING

NCF GROUP

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A DYNAMIC HUB Split into two levels and a mezzanine, the office space is a holistic hub that contains general work area on both levels, meeting spaces, a gym and training hall. The concept aims to inspire fun and spontaneity through the juxtaposition of random shapes and expression forms. Apart from being a space for dayto-day business activities, the new office focuses on providing conducive spaces for mentoring and peer-coaching.

The general work area adopts a flexible configuration for easy expansion. Break out spaces are scattered in various areas, forming touch points for the users within the vicinity to network and converse. A juxtaposed seating plan is a playful take that breaks away from the conventional rectilinear arrangement. Ceiling patterns and fixture detailing further amplify the vibrant atmosphere.

As one settles in the office, the vibe is open and transparent, thanks to an open ceiling and use of glass material. In addition, low panels are applied to maintain visual connectivity with coworkers. While the design projects an image of an energetic company for external guests, it fosters cohesion and team spirit internally.

LEFT: Playful detailing and colours amplify the energy in the office

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URBAN OASIS DB&B designs Setia Alam’s sales gallery & platinum lounge.

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Setia Alam Selangor, Malaysia | 11,000 square feet | Design & Build

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DB&B Malaysia was commissioned by SP Setia BHD Group to design and construct the interiors of the Welcome Sales Gallery at Setia Alam. Located within the bustling 2,500-acre Shan Bandar, a nature-inspired township development in the Klang Vallley, the design firm thought of an organic concept of marrying the existing interior with the interior.

INSPIRED BY NATURE SP Setia Bhd Group’s masterplan at Shah Bandar is an all-inclusive development with mix conference, retail, commercial and residential areas. Within the township, several plots of neighborhoods have been designated and will be constructed at the same time. This urban hub is developed to embody SP Setia’s LiveLearnWorkPlay philosophy.

As the main destination to showcase their masterplan, the Welcome Centre Sales Gallery is a significant project. To house all the commercial functions that represent the development, the sales gallery was conceived to contain project displays, mock ups, seating lounge, kid’s area and also the marketing office.

Pinning the experience together is a connection to nature, which inspired the start of the masterplan development. To showcase this organic relationship, the design team proposed ‘Urban Oasis’, a concept that combines urban design with natural elements. The layering of organic forms, materiality, textures and lighting are integrated to subtly illustrate a tropical garden fit for relaxation and rejuvenation.

RIGHT: The sales gallery was conceived to house project displays, mock ups, seating lounge, kid's area and marketing office.

MALAYSIA

SETIA ALAM

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MALAYSIA

SETIA ALAM

AN INTERCONNECTED DEVELOPMENT Greeting users from the entrance are ‘tree’ pillars of different heights and sizes, which visually and structurally connect every part of the building. The acrylic columns cladded in stainless steel are fitted with custom lighting to create the mood and ambiance for an outdoorindoor impression.

At the reception, a wall that features ascending timber trellis infuses a sense of movement and liveliness. This stylistic detailing prevails from the curvilinear reception counter to the aerodynamic wave wall along the viewing gallery, forming an immersive organic feel throughout the space.

On the mezzanine level, the façade that leads to the marketing office is cladded with timber waves; woven together with gallery lights that exude an exclusive atmosphere to the premium lounge. The application of natural palette to the finishes and wall to furniture furnishing further amplifies the look and feel of a nature-inspired environment.

BOTH: Inspired by nature, DB&B proposed the Urban Oasis a concept that combines urban design with natural elements. The result is a visual treat where guests can witness modern design elements such as walls with ascending timber trellis and avatarish trees.

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FACILITATING EXCLUSIVE SERVICES The mezzanine lounge was a newly raised floor to cater to premium customers. Served with a viewing gallery, this is an exclusive space that offers a panoptic view of the overall development on the first floor. Consistent with the theme, this level is furnished with curvilinear detailing to connect with the adjacent feature wall.

While the customers converse and inquire in the lounge, their convenience was also taken into consideration. A kid’s corner is provided for parents with children. This mini playground was designed to mimic a backyard so that children may play as if they were outdoors – connecting freely with nature. Soft turf carpet and timber finishes were carefully selected to ensure comfort and safety.

With these features, the design aims for maximum interactivity so that clients may receive a comprehensive “SP Setia experience” during their visit to the sales gallery; consistent with the experience these users would get in one of their developments.

RIGHT: Customers’ convenience was also taken into consideration. Hence, a kid’s corner designed like a backyard is provided for parents who brought their children to Setia Alam.

www. dbb.com

MALAYSIA

SETIA ALAM

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LEADERSHIP VIEWPOINTS As the world of design transform and transition, industry leaders are constantly challenging themselves to innovate. We go up close and personal with these leaders to uncover their plans.

CARL HANSEN & SĂ˜N

> Knud Erik Hansen - Champion of Danish Classics

DB&B

> Billy Siew - Growing the DB&B Brand > Jeanette Siew - Business Relationships Built on Trust > Paul Cheng - The Value of Commitment

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Knud Erik Hansen, CEO, Carl Hansen & Søn

OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

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CHAMPION OF DANISH CLASSICS

CH100 Office and Lounge series

A passionate promoter of classic Danish design and craftsmanship, Carl Hansen & Søn continues to be a formidable force to reckon with in the global furniture industry more than 100 years on, rolling out products that are supremely comfortable, exceptionally practical and, of course, decidedly classic.

CH24 Wishbone Chair

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CARL HANSEN & SØN

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CRAFTSMANSHIP FURNITURE

“All the furniture from the company is made in Denmark where you have a tradition for very high knowledge and experience for making top quality furniture through the past centuries.”

Knud Erik Hansen

Knud Erik Hansen, CEO, Carl Hansen & Søn

Q: CARL HANSEN & SØN HAS BEEN OPERATING FOR OVER 100 YEARS IN THE DENMARK. PLEASE SHARE WITH US CARL HANSEN & SON’S JOURNEY TO WHERE IT IS TODAY. A: Carl Hansen & Søn is 106 years old. The company is a family owned company and the present owner – Knud Erik Hansen - is the 3rd generation owner. Carl Hansen had the objective to make high quality furniture at a decent price. In that way Carl Hansen believed the customers would come back to him for more products - feeling well treated and having made a good deal.

Craftsmanship has also been a very important factor in the production. All through the years Carl Hansen & Søn has worked with skilled workers at their plants and nearly only Danish wood is being used in the production today.

A short recap of the history….The Carl Hansen & Søn story began in 1908, when cabinetmaker Carl Hansen set up a small furniture workshop. He was quick to see the potential of serial production and in 1915 he was able to open a factory capable of

manufacturing small series of furniture. Due to a heart disease Carl Hansen left the running of the business to his 23 year old son Holger Hansen in 1934.

Having closely followed Wegner’s early career, Holger felt that the young furniture designer would be the right partner for a furniture collection collaboration with Carl Hansen & Søn. In 1949, Holger arranged a meeting with Wegner, certain that a partnership had the potential to help grow the business. A collaboration with Carl Hansen & Søn would enable him to reach an even wider audience. The prospect piqued Wegner’s interest – perhaps in part because the focus would be on chair design – and the two men agreed that Wegner would present proposals for a few chairs, two of these the CH24 – popularly known as the Wishbone Chair – and the CH25 have been in continuous production ever since.

After Holger passed away suddenly in 1962, his widow, Ella Hansen, maintained control of the family business, ensuring its continued success. The couple’s eldest son, Jørgen Gerner, joined the company, assuming control in 1988.

In 2002, the couple’s youngest son, Knud Erik Hansen, took over as CEO. Since then, the family-owned business from the Funen region of Denmark has significantly expanded its international outreach, with Carl Hansen & Søn becoming the world’s largest manufacturer of furniture designed by Wegner. Just like his father, Holger, Knud Erik is passionately committed to maintaining and sharing Wegner’s unrivaled design on the international design arena. Carl Hansen & Søn works closely with the Hans J. Wegner’s Studio, which with a knowing hand ensures that Wegner’s designs are recreated or modified with the greatest respect for Wegner’s original drawings and design philosophy.

Q: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RANGE OF PRODUCT OFFERINGS; AND WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM THE OTHER FURNITURE SUPPLIERS? A: We produce only furniture designed by some of the best furniture architects of the world; like Kaare Klint, Mogens Koch, Ole Wanscher, Frits Henningsen, Poul Kjaerholm and Hans J. Wegner.

That being said the standard is very high and the quality is among the top seen in the world today. All the furniture from the company is made in Denmark where you have a tradition for very high knowledge and experience for making top quality furniture through the past centuries. Denmark has some of the best wood for making furniture as it has all grown in controlled and cultivated forests and in a climate, which is rough, windy, rainy and often cold. The wood is hard and durable for furniture. Carl Hansen & Søn primarily use Danish wood in its production. Only the cherry and the walnut are imported from USA.

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CH88

Q: PLEASE SHARE WITH US YOUR (CARL HANSEN & SØN’S) DESIGN PHILOSOPHY. A: The architects all have to be designing unique products of a very high quality. Carl Hansen & Søn do not make anything that is fashion - with the exception of some fabrics being designed by for instance Paul Smith and other well-known designers of today.

The products are all classic in their design. They need to be as they are all of a very high quality and also sold at a price, which makes each one of the products unique with a history that is to last of generations. Carl Hansen & Søn works with architects that commenced their career during the 1930s and up to designs made by none less than Japanese architect Tadao Ando.

Q: WHAT ARE CLIENTS LOOKING FOR THESE DAYS IN THE CHOICE OF OFFICE FURNITURE? A: Some are naturally looking for the cheapest obtainable furniture for their office. Others are looking for furniture, which match the level of the staff employed. That means that when you require your staff to perform at a high level and produce high quality - you also need to furnish your office with high quality furniture.

Many modern offices are equipped with areas for high level meetings and/or relax areas where you are able to read trade literature. Here you also need comfortable furniture that invite in debts studies and talks. At such events you need not to be sitting in uncomfortable furniture but in classical designs in a quiet and friendly atmosphere. Here Carl Hansen & Søn supply some of the best products to meet the mentioned requirements.

Q: AESTHETICS VERSUS FUNCTION. HOW DO YOU STRIKE A BALANCE? A: This is not difficult for us, as we seem to meet both criteria. Hans J. Wegner demanded his products to contain top comfort, quality and be practical, light and specially designed for different purposes and settings. He was a master of design and of craftsmanship not to forget his high experience of practical use.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR COVERAGE IN THE REGION? ANY EXPANSION OR OUTREACH PLANS? IF YES, WHAT WILL BE THE KEY CHALLENGES IN THE EXPANSION TO THE PARTICULAR REGION/COUNTRY? A: When trading worldwide you have to think of expansion in all regions. You need to work at different strategies in different markets. You need a different approach in USA as you need in Japan and the public and the cultures are totally different.

We need to expand in South East Asia and we now employ approx. 25 persons to work on the markets from Japan to Australia.

We work on different campaigns in each country and we make special venues for architects in each country. Danish design is becoming more and more accepted and sought for all over Asia and not least in South East Asia.

Q: HOW DO YOU KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST IN OFFICE DESIGN TRENDS AND MARKET DEMANDS? A: We are not working directly with office designs but are able to supply the reception areas, visiting areas, canteens and management offices with furniture. We do not have any designs made directly for offices but work on the philosophy: An Elegant Home Away from Home. Like our new CH88 chair – a 1955 design that has, to date, only existed as a prototype and one of Wegner’s few designs combining wood and steel. The CH88 is a versatile chair updated for today’s needs and suited to a range of different styles and settings. The blend of materials, minimalist and stackable design makes the chair equally well-suited to the hotel restaurants, corporate canteen and living rooms. Also our CH100 series by Wegner, originally launched as office furniture, epitomizes thoughtful design and unsurpassed craftsmanship with its extremely simple cubic design along with timeless shapes and exquisite comfort has maintained its modern expression throughout the years.

Q: PLEASE DESCRIBE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE INNOVATIVE IN YOUR RANGE OF PRODUCTS.

CARL HANSEN & SØN

CRAFTSMANSHIP FURNITURE

A: To be different from all the others. Making the highest possible quality. Tell the story of the products and not least make a product that will still be perfect and modern in a long time to come and last through generations. Most companies and for that matter also most people wish to express stability and good taste when presenting their office or home. Therefore most of our customers wish for high quality, natural material used, comfortable classical designs and not least different furniture to what everybody else have.

Q: WHAT’S YOUR SHORT AND LONG TERM VISION FOR CARL HANSEN & SON? A: Short term - we need to expand to a size that secures us constant independence. We grow between 20 and 25% per year. Such an expansion requires us to employ only the best and most experienced staff all over the world. We wish to stay a Danish owned family business.

Long term - we need to renew us all the time to stay interesting in the mind of the architects and the trade. We need to follow the demand from our customers to delivery time and highest possible quality. We shall try to remain a family business with a strong heritage of capital and management as well as trade knowledge.

Q: PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY AT WORK. A: I commence every day at 05.00 am replying the e-mails that I received during the night. It is important that the staff in Asia manage to receive a reply from me before they leave in the evening and that the staff in Europe gains my opinion before they meet in the morning. During the day I work with incoming messages from USA and the rest of the world. I travel a lot (more than 100 days per year) as I feel that is important that our customers meet the owner of the business regularly in order to view their opinions and to listen to our coming developments directly from me. The wellbeing of the staff is also one of my high priorities and therefore I visit our factories in Denmark very often as well as I meet with the management and staff all over the world a number of times per year.

I meet with our architects, their families and I am a board member of a number of trade societies as well as other Danish companies. They need also regular care and attention. Interviews of new staff are a priority for me as well. The staff is the most important element for our continued success.

Finally, I dedicate time for my family when I am at home.

My wife and I have two dogs and a large estate that also need good care.

Therefore my day is full.

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ABOUT KNUD ERIK HANSEN CEO Knud Erik Hansen represents the third generation of the familyrun company Carl Hansen & Søn. He is the grandchild of company founder Carl Hansen. Knud Erik is an internationally experienced business executive with a global outlook and strong focus on trade.

He has always appreciated solid and elegant furniture design, but only focused clearly on Danish furniture production relatively late in his career – when he became CEO of Carl Hansen & Søn a little over 10 years ago.

Knud Erik Hansen is both CEO at Carl Hansen & Søn and a member of the board of the Association of Danish Furniture+Interior. His various positions also include membership of The Danish Federation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.

CAREER Knud Erik Hansen began his career in 1969 as a shipping trainee for the East Asiatic Company (EAC), an old trading and shipping agency.

After his apprenticeship, he completed his military service with the Danish Air Force, where he was elected as national spokesman for privates in the Danish Air Force.

In 1973, at the age of 23, he was stationed in South Africa by EAC, where he built up a shipping and trading company in Port Elizabeth.

Three years later he moved to Singapore as marketing manager for one of EAC’s subsidiaries, working with business people from all over the world. Ascending through the ranks of EAC, he was promoted to important top management positions in Hong Kong. He supervised the overall shipping and transport activities in Hong Kong and China, and subsequently represented EAC’s comprehensive shipping interests during the registration on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Knud Erik Hansen remained in leading positions within a number of EAC subsidiaries until 1994.

In 1994, he returned home to Denmark to become director of a listed timber company and producer of unhewn stone for the construction industry, and a fiber manufacturer, respectively, before settling in the director’s chair at Dan-Foam in 1998. After four years with Knud Erik Hansen at the helm, the company had increased its turnover eight-fold - the most rapid progress recorded by any production company in Denmark. As CEO, he assisted with the sale of Dan-Foam to American interests in 2001.

In 2002, he returned to the family’s 100-year-old furniture company as owner and CEO. Driven by the commercial challenges facing the company, he quickly identified the potential of Wegner’s designs.

He has been a member of the board of Carl Hansen & Søn since 1991. www.carlhansen.com OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

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ALL THAT IT TAKES :

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DB&B

WORKPLACE DESIGN SPECIALISTS

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DO IT BETTER & BETTER

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he design and build business in the region is flourishing, with plenty of new firms popping up and finding their niche in the stiff market. Even with all these changes, DB&B remains a key player in this field. Banking on their 18 years of experience, proven methodologies and trained professionals, they continue their mission to innovate and change the ways on how commercial spaces should be designed and built. Office Concept caught up with three of their leaders to recap their journey to success.

DB&B’s success wasn’t handed on a silver platter. It took a visionary, supported by a relationship-builder and a problem solver, to build the company to what it is today. Considered as one of the leading integrated design and build firms in the Asia Pacific region, their valued clients approach them as a solutions provider. With a good understanding of how function should complement form, they continue on their mission of creating office spaces that are modern, innovative and aesthetically pleasing to the eyes. www.dbb.com

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GROWING THE DB&B BRAND Billy Siew, Managing Director, DB&B

Eighteen years since it was established and six offices across Asia Pacific later, DB&B Managing Director Billy Siew shows no signs of slowing down. Together with his trusted partners in other Asian offices, he continues his mission of pushing the design and build boundaries to expand the DB&B brand and create innovative office solutions that fit the needs of their clients.

Office Concept caught up with him to find out the company’s hard road to success and his future plans for the DB&B Group of Companies.

DB&B

BILLY SIEW | MANAGING DIRECTOR

Q: YOU CO-FOUNDED DB&B SINGAPORE BACK IN 1996. TODAY, THE FIRM HAS GROWN TO INCLUDE 6 BRANCHES IN FIVE COUNTRIES. PLEASE SHARE WITH US YOUR JOURNEY THUS FAR AND WHERE YOU’LL BE HEADING TO. A: I believe all business owners can relate to me when I say that it’s never easy to start up a company. We set up DB&B because we had a vision to create commercial spaces based on our own processes and methodologies.

Since the beginning, we always aimed to design and build commercial spaces with the highest standards.

We were fortunate to earn our clients’ trust and they helped build our foundation.

We believe in our processes and methodologies and the potential to be a game changer in the market, so we set up other offices in Asia. It was a necessary step because we also had to grow with our regional clients.

In the near future, we’ll focus on extending our reach to Greater China and other Asian countries.

Q: HOW HAS THE BUSINESS OF COMMERCIAL INTERIORS EVOLVED AND GROWN OVER THE RECENT YEARS? A: The Asia Pacific commercial market has been charting a steady increase over the last few years. Jones Lang La Salle’s report stated that the 2013 direct investment in the Asia Pacific commercial real estate markets reached US$126.7 billion, breaking the 2007 record of US$120.5 billion. The Asian market gained investors’ trust because of these continuous improvements.

With the strengthening of the Asian economy, there were more opportunities for businesses to flourish. In our case, there was a demand from companies to set-up or update their offices, and we supplied our services.

Q: WHEN DB&B ENTERED OTHER MARKETS IN ASIA, YOU UPROOTED YOURSELF FROM SINGAPORE AND FOCUSED ON SETTING UP BRANCHES IN COUNTRIES SUCH AS MALAYSIA, PHILIPPINES AND CHINA. WHAT WERE THE CHALLENGES IN OPENING NEW MARKETS AT THAT TIME? A: Our vision for DB&B has always been to grow our business in countries that have needs for our products and services. Since the demand for design and build was growing, we decided to open a branch in Malaysia in 2001. The year 2006 was a fruitful year for us because we were able to penetrate the Philippines, Shanghai and Beijing.

The decision to expand was greatly influenced by growing markets. During this period, clients were setting up bases in the region we saw this as an opportunity to extend our reach.

The challenges we faced were about how to approach the diverse markets. We had to further refine

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our existing methodologies to adapt to the local approaches and culture. We’ve learnt a great deal from these, which encouraged us to open a branch in Thailand early this year.

Q: HOW DO YOU MANAGE THE VARIOUS BRANCHES WITH SUCH DIVERSE MARKETS? A: We are fortunate that we have reliable partners and employees working with us in other Asian branches.

They have internalised DB&B’s corporate values and have adapted our processes and methodologies to suit their market. They really understand the needs of their culture, so we trust them to carry on the DB&B brand.

With the help of our partners and employees, we’ve achieved an annual compounded growth rate of 18%.

I also would like to show my gratitude to them because they all played a vital role in our success.

It is also important for us to hire the right people.

I’d have to commend our HR team for their stringent processes in finding professionals who embody DB&B’s integrity and corporate values.

Q: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE? A: My main role as Managing Director is to set the goals and direction of DB&B. My partners and I also need to make sure that these can be executed by all our branches.

However, I would not dictate the ways to achieve these goals. I share these with our leaders and partners and let them take the lead.

I have been working with my partners for a long time, and they know DB&B as well as I do. We all want to bring the company to greater heights, and with their experience and knowledge, I believe we can attain this goal.

Q: OVER THE YEARS, WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN THIS BUSINESS? A: It’s hard to start up a business, but the real challenge is to sustain it. DB&B has always been guided by pragmatic ideologies. Being a DBBian, it’s our passion to seek for perfection by differentiating ourselves. It’s a continuous journey that keeps us going. We also understand that businesses are always evolving. If we’re complacent, we would be left behind. We need to remain vigilant, so we can upgrade and adapt to these changes.

Q: IF YOU COULD SUM UP YOUR DB&B JOURNEY, WHAT WOULD IT BE? A: To make it in this business, you need to have a clear vision and an eye for detail to see things in different perspectives.

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BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST Jeanette Siew, Executive Director, DB&B

If there’s one thing Jeanette Siew, Executive Director of DB&B Singapore, is committed at, it’s building relationships with people. Over the years, she has managed to forge strong partnerships with her clients with trust being the backbone of them all. Leading the day-to-day operations of DB&B Singapore, she’s actively involved in business development, design innovation, and project management to ensure that clients’ needs are effectively met.

DB&B

JEANETTE SIEW | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Q: YOU’RE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT. HOW DISCERNING ARE CUSTOMERS NOWADAYS WHEN IT COMES TO CHOOSING A COMPANY TO DESIGN AND BUILD THEIR COMMERCIAL SPACES? A: In this competitive business, customers aren’t just considering companies which can give them the most impressive design. More than that, they want to work with a company they can have a lasting relationship with. It sounds so easy on paper, but it’s something that can’t be achieved overnight. It may take years before you can really earn their trust and foster a sustainable working relationship.

Capability and experience are also two things that they are seeking for in a company. Customers want to be assured that you can finish their job without sacrificing the design, quality and budget.

Q: YOU’RE NOT JUST ACTIVE IN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT. YOU’RE ALSO INVOLVED IN THE DESIGN PROCESS. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS A GOOD DESIGN? A: Design is quite subjective. There’s really no step by step rulebook you can follow to create an office space that everyone would appreciate. For me, it’s always been love at first sight. I go back to basics and understand the core of the design to see if it has achieved its purpose.

I also think it’s a good design if the office space is able to merge seamlessly form and function. There are times when I see a design that is grand but has sadly neglected the practicality and vice versa. That just doesn’t work for me.

In creating designs for our clients, we always think of functionality first. We always visualise a space that would fit their brand, culture and operational needs.

From this point, we think of innovative ways to marry it with an aesthetically pleasing design that would also be durable and long lasting.

Q: WHAT ARE THE KEY CHALLENGES YOU HAVE AT THE MOMENT? A: With competition heating up in the region, our greatest challenge is that we always have to keep differentiating ourselves. But it’s something that we accept positively because we always want to be better in what we do. It’s the very same value we’ve held close to our heart since day one, daring to challenge and be different.

We make sure that we’re always on top of the game by hiring the right people, continuously refining our processes and methodologies and being updated on the latest trends in the interior design world.

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Q: YOU’VE BEEN DB&B SINGAPORE’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR 15 YEARS NOW. WHAT ARE YOUR DREAMS FOR THE COMPANY? A: I believe in DB&B and what makes this company is our people. My dream is to continue nourishing and nurturing the talents we have. Working with them through the years, I’ve seen their potential on how they can turn abstract ideas into reality. Until now, it still amazes me how they can come up with designs that are truly unique and innovative. Our clients have also seen our creative team’s capability and we have strengthened our business relationships with them.

We also value our construction team for they are the people responsible for building these visions into commercial spaces. They all play an integral role in the continuous growth of the company, so we aim to equip them with the right tools to deliver a project wholeheartedly.

Being in the business for 18 years and being able to establish branches in other Asian countries, I believe that we’ve come a long way. But that hasn’t stopped me from dreaming about expanding further to other regions.

Q: WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED? A: Business integrity will get you a long way. In the years that we’ve been in business, we’ve always been truthful and transparent with our clients. For example, if there’s a project deadline that clients want to meet and we feel that it’s not feasible due to certain circumstances, we tell them honestly and propose ways to solve this challenge. We’ve always believed that we shouldn’t over promise and under deliver. Integrity has always been at the helm of DB&B since it started, and it has been the heart and soul of the company. Without this, I don’t think we would’ve lasted 18 years.

Q: WITH EVERYTHING THAT YOU’VE ACHIEVED, HOW DO YOU BALANCE WORK AND FAMILY LIFE? A: I’ve managed to internalise the mother and Executive Director of DB&B role. While work is very important to me, I always make sure that I spend quality time with my family and children. It was hard to juggle at first, but now, it has become automatic.

It may sound funny but it all boils down to management too. I can’t do everything with my own pair of hands. If I need help, I ask for it. I’m fortunate I have plenty of help on domestic grounds. I usually manage and delegate like what I do at work!

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Paul Cheng, Operations Director, DB&B

THE VALUE OF COMMITMENT Twenty years ago, IT-trained Paul Cheng wouldn’t have thought he would be involved in the construction business.

Now a key player in DB&B’s operations, he takes charge of the operational and fabrication aspects of ongoing projects to ensure that the projects are delivered to time and quality.

Under his leadership, he was able to further strengthen the company’s commitment to quality, environment and health and safety.

DB&B

PAUL CHENG | OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Q: COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY AT WORK? A: Being the Operations Director of DB&B, my time is split into three locations – the office, factory and work site. You can find me most mornings in the office scrutinising the various reports and finishing my paper work. I spend my afternoons either at the factory or at a project site to check if everything’s going smoothly.

I like being involved in projects so I always plan my day accordingly. We meet up regularly as a team to ensure we are all on the same page. This also lets us anticipate potential issues and work out solutions to meet clients’ expectations in terms of timeline, quality and budget.

Q: HOW IMPORTANT IS HEALTH & SAFETY IN THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS THEN AND NOW? A: At DB&B, we stress the importance of health and safety. We work with the government to ensure we meet and constantly improve on workplace, safety and health (WSH) standards. We also have an in-house Workplace Safety and Health Officer who oversees our construction projects and makes sure that our commitment to safety and sustainability remains steadfast.

Prior to the government’s increased focus on these standards, we were already involved in an initiative to strengthen our WSH policies. DB&B has been quite active in this, and we regularly attend seminars conducted by the government. I had the privilege of attending one such session in my early days and have seen how important safety standards are. From this point, I encouraged the management team to get ISO and OHSAS accreditations and ensure that what we were doing were of international standards. These, in turn, have made us one of the most trusted interior design and construction companies in the market.

Q: DB&B HAS BEEN ACCREDITED WITH THE INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, HOW DO YOU ENSURE YOUR TEAM STAYS COMMITTED AND ALIGNED WITH THE OBJECTIVES? A: Our employees are the core of DB&B and we firmly believe in investing in our people. The management regularly conducts trainings and seminars to keep the teams updated on current trends or developments in interior design, construction and health and safety.

We focus a lot on training, ensuring our staff have the necessary skills to do their jobs in the highest standards.

This, then ensures the company remains competitive in this industry.

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Q: HOW IS IT RELATED TO CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT? A: We are an IMS-accredited firm committed to designing and building offices based on our clients’ exacting standards. We not only construct these projects to their satisfaction, but to our high standards as well. Being ISO-accredited, we follow strict guidelines to ensure that we don’t cause any harm to our clients, people and the environment. Quality also remains to be one of our top priorities because it is aligned with our vision of creating commercial spaces that are durable and long lasting.

Q: HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT YOUR PROJECTS ARE DELIVERED ON TIME, WITHIN BUDGET AND OF HIGHEST QUALITY? A: Having been in this business for quite some time already, our team works like a well-oiled machine. For each project, we follow a process – Observing, Planning, Doing, Checking and Acting. For every project, we study the scope and use our observations to plan and strategise on the best approach to meeting client requirements.

We also have a good retention rate when it comes to our employees in the construction side. By ensuring we have happy people, they are also more loyal and more productive. Our people are our biggest asset and the company has benefited from this since we have experienced people we can rely on.

Q: WHAT KEEPS YOUR PASSION/COMMITMENT ALIVE WHEN IT COMES TO CONSTRUCTING PROJECTS WITH THE HIGHEST STANDARDS? A: I’m a problem solver by nature, and it has helped greatly in this job. In the years that I’ve been with the company, we’ve dealt with a lot of challenges in our design and build projects. With each encounter, we always have to think out of the box to come up with solutions for the clients. The whole process keeps me on my toes as I always have to research, study and apply what I’ve learned to keep sharp and to stay ahead in this business.

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FITTING INTERIORS Discover the right fit & balance with careful material selection

KUSCH+CO | Series 8080 HAWORTH XFRIENDS | The Porter SCHIAVELLO | Hedge SPACE FURNITURE | Zinta ZENITH | Tonina KOKUYO | Inspine EURO | Theory BUROSC | Infinito, Arrigo, Myor & Reluxe SPACE FURNITURE | Tyde INTERFACE | Human Nature™ NIRO GRANITE | Stockholm OTTENWÄLDER UND OTTENWÄLDER | Glance

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Hedge by Schiavello

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ROAD SHOW

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PREMIUM PUBLIC SEATING

SERIES 8080 | KUSCH+CO

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Bent on raising the bar in the category of public seating, Kusch+Co put the Porsche Design Studio behind the wheel in the design of the German brand’s long-awaited bench series 8080.

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n the luxury car domain, Porsche is acknowledged as one of the reigning kings of design. Destined to add a winning touch to high-end resting and waiting rooms everywhere, Kusch+Co’s recently launched series 8080 collection takes on the premier car brand’s unmistakable signature. Featuring a refreshed take on soft seating complements, the series 800’s formidable design boldly asserts by exuding its own characteristic feel, giving the pieces a starring role in large and small spaces alike – even in massive, architecturally distinctive assembly halls, the collection stands out owing to its marriage of plush materials and sound construction.

Without compromising on functionality, the series 8080 manages to epitomise contemporary cool.

Made with high-grade aluminium side parts, the frame and mount effortlessly become one, enabling a refreshing departure from conventionally austere designs. Aesthetics are key to the overall design down to the last detail, culminating in pieces that extol the importance of comfort and visual symmetry.

The side part’s hub is an integral part of the design, be it in the case of the collection’s three-seater bench or the armchair; the main means of support, this element also comes through as a prominent ornamental component.

Another hallmark is the cut-out feature in the backrest which enables a more streamlined look while facilitating air circulation and easy cleaning. The topnotch upholstery tops everything off with aplomb – whether one’s preference is leather or hardwearing fabric, the choices are endless. A coffee table composed of glass and alumimium comes as a sleek side note, emerging as the last word in elegant modern furniture.

TOP & LEFT: The series 8080 collection takes a cue from Porsche’s signature aesthetic, pairing functionality with contemporary cool.

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EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGE A trend among companies of all sizes to downsize their office tenancy areas and the growing need for informal meeting space has led to an innovation in transforming commercial real estate: The Porter, to be launched at 1 O’Connell St on May 22. |

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CASE STUDY

THE PORTER | HAWORTH XFRIENDS

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ecent research shows that an increasing number of employees view their work environments as extending beyond the four walls of their office given adoption of new mobile technologies and value a range of different environments which support different corporate functions. The Porter at 1 O’Connell Street is a new club lounge concept managed by Haworth that attempts to fulfil this growing need. The Porter was a collaborative project led by the building’s owner, Lend Leasemanaged Australian Prime Property Fund Commercial, Haworth, and design firm 2d3d (now Gensler).

In developing The Porter, the team also engaged with a group of innovative product, service and thought leaders under the “Haworth times Friends” (HaworthxFriends) open platform. Together, Haworth and its xFriends partners addressed critical aspects of The Porter’s design, from furniture curation to community engagement, technology enablement, concierge services, brand design, and food and beverage services. From the beginning of concept development the group worked together to research, design, furnish and ultimately activate the space to create a vertical community within the building, facilitating a new way to engage and connect in our digital world.

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CASE STUDY

THE PORTER | HAWORTH XFRIENDS

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CASE STUDY

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THE PORTER | HAWORTH XFRIENDS

The Porter will provide its members with unique privileges and an ability to leverage a range of different work environments and amenities including a flexible workshop area, event spaces, meeting rooms, casual seating, and a central “chalet” with fireplace in which to collaborate and network. The array of spaces is designed to encourage cross-company pollination in an exclusive lounge atmosphere. One of the xFriends partners, CoActiv8, along with Haworth hosted co-creation workshops to identify principles of community and collaboration that could be leveraged in The Porter’s service and delivery model. CoActiv8, will support the ongoing activation of The Porter by curating social events, fostering self-organising behaviours, and facilitating online connectivity.

The Porter stands to deliver a new model for true sustainability by providing a constantly evolving space, as well as building a vertical community within 1 O’Connell and its precinct that fosters engagement and well-being. The Porter will also serve to utilise the advanced end of trip facilities housed within 1 O’Connell St, extending the reach of the building’s assets to members. www.haworthxfriends.com

KEY PARTNERS OF THE PORTER:

• Haworth (Operations, Concept development & management, Furniture curation)

• Lend Lease Managed APPF Commercial (Building Owner) • 2D3D, now Gensler (Designer) • CoActiv8 (Community Engagement) • Peace of Mind Technology (Technology Integration) • First Contact Hospitality Services (Concierge Services) • Euro Fresh (Food & Beverage) • Jones Lang LaSalle (Building Manager) OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

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ocusing on relationships and interactions that occur between people and places, furniture designer Oliver Field is partial to works that showcase the synergy between internal and external forces. A prominent figure in Schiavello’s design team, it’s obvious that Field has imparted his influence on the brand’s products, particularly with respect to quirky, intuitively achieved pieces such as Hedge.

A cushy block composed of undulating curves that appear to have been compressed in a cartoon-like fashion, the arches conform to one’s body when sat on, giving way to a seat-like indent with armrests. To the delight of loungeprone sitters everywhere, a hammock-like position can also be achieved owing to Hedge’s flexible structure. The bench-cum-table is fast making waves with design cognoscenti, not only because of its playful design but also because of its emphasis on functionality. “My intention for Hedge is to provoke both an emotional and tangible connection between the user and the piece by combining aesthetic personality with function,” says Field.

True to the designer’s vision, Hedge is a unique product with the capacity to enliven spaces through its humorous, statement-making appearance. Available in a plethora of hues and textures, its idiosyncratic presence will surely make itself felt whether the backdrop encompasses domestic interiors or a commercial setting. Exhibited at the National Gallery of Victoria when it was notably shortlisted in 2009 in the Cicely & Colin Rigg Contemporary Design Awards, one of the most prestigious design accolades in Australia, Hedge’s winning qualities are as discernible as its instantly recognisable construction. www.schiavello.com

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LOUNGE SEATING

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HEDGE | SCHIAVELLO

GARDEN PARTY Hedge, Schiavello’s notable design is a versatile bench-cum-table that also doubles as an eyecatching artwork.

LEFT & RIGHT: Playfully cartoon-like, Hedge was designed specifically to accommodate different sitting positions and various forms of use.

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SOFA SO GOOD Lightweight and versatile, this colourful, modular sofa system means being able to mix and match to your heart’s content.

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LOUNGE SEATING

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ZINTA | SPACE FURNITURE

icking the right sofa requires a combination of talent and patience. It’s too often the case that a terrific-looking piece disappoints mere moments after the deliverymen have departed. Breathtakingly stylish in the showroom, the same piece somehow manages to morph into a hopelessly oversized mass that goes with nothing in your living space. It’s a dilemma, but one that might easily be avoided by making a beeline for the Zinta sofa, we think.

Designed by Lievore Alterr Molina, a trio of forward-thinking creatives from Barcelona, the Zinta’s pleasing combination of warm hues and fluid lines make a stark impression from the get-go. Exceedingly versatile, this modular sofa system is always dressed to impress thanks to the incorporation of a refined structure as well as high-quality materials. The deep seat allows for just the right amount of support, effortlessly molding itself to the sitter’s body upon contact. Components boasting varying lengths and subdued angles emerge as main product highlights, allowing for easy DIY arrangements in any space - so whether you’re kitting out a swinging bachelor pad or open-plan seating area, the Zinta’s got it covered.

With diverse sizes and materials on offer, those particularly stringent about customisation will no doubt find the system’s uncanny ability to adapt a true godsend. Comprising primarily of a wood shell, lined padding and cushions, the Zinta comes available in a range of colours and formats, including wood veneer in natural, brown and dark oak as well as a steel base and aluminum legs shaded in dark grey.

TOP & BOTTOM: For those that appreciate the challenge of changing up a space every now then, the Zinta comes as an ideal choice.

www.spacefurniture.com

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LEAN AND GREEN Pragmatically fashioned, this lightweight, stackable chair emerges as a nod to both nature and technology.

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STACKABLE CHAIR

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TONINA | ZENITH

talian designers Claudio Dondoli and Marco Pocci have a thing for nature, and it shows. Tonina, one of the newest designs to fly off the duo’s drawing board for furniture manufacturer Allermuir pays homage to smart green thinking, drawing direct inspiration from fluid, organic shapes. Made wholly from recycled materials and created using state-of-the-art technology, this durable multipurpose chair makes a memorable impression with its streamlined frame and supple finish, achieved through an innovative manufacturing process called the Biomimetic Method. Injected at high pressure into a steel mould, the material consequently emerges as a sturdy outer skin, taking on a sleek, almost lacquered appearance. The pared down nature of the Tonina’s material qualities is a clear indicator of Dondoli and Pocci’s abidance of green design, as is the fact that a single material was used to create the chair in aid of its recycling potential.

The chair’s inner structure is also equally robust, giving rise to a solid, well-designed piece that embodies style as well as substance.

The Tonina’s upbeat yet minimalist appearance makes it an ideal fit for any given setting, indoor or outdoor. Perfect as a quirky café chair, it also lends itself well to more formal environments within the corporate, education and hospitality sector. Imbued with a stackable quality, the chair weights just four kilos, allowing for convenience and portability thereby trumping bulky, traditionally manufactured equivalents. A modern classic in the making, the Tonina, with or without arms, is available in six stylish colours.

TOP & BOTTOM: The Tonina chair extols a sparing use of materials and an indelibly green mindset.

www.zenithinteriors.com.au

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BRACE YOURSELF KOKUYO’s increasingly popular Inspine chair invites office workers to sit back and let it take care of the rest.

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INSPINE | KOKUYO

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ow can an office chair offer itself as a viable solution to shifting work styles? That was apparently the key question that sat in the mind of KOKUYO’s chief designer Kazutaka Oki as he set about formulating the Japanese furniture company’s aptly named Inspine chair. Having made its first formal appearance late last year at KOKUYO’s in-house fair in Shinagawa, the chair was officially introduced to the Japanese market earlier this year, garnering rave reviews from consumers. It’s easy to see why – hinged on a simple yet sophisticated framework, a series of thoughtful features make the Inspine an indispensible addition to any workplace.

The key highlight is certainly the chair’s incorporation of wire a lumbar support, making KOKUYO an industry pioneer in this respect. Concealed within the tubed framework, a single coil of wire is instrumental in providing added support to the lumbar area; via the turn of a knob sitters can tighten the wire and adjust the backrest accordingly. This feature was specifically formulated as a corrective measure to the C-shape posture that the body has the tendency to take on after extended periods of sitting in one place.

In light of this, KOKUYO has also tweaked the seating, replacing the conventional go-to component with a three-dimensional seat pad designed to support the sitter’s pelvis in a comfortable, upright position at all times. Last but not least, Shinagawa has also improved on the positioning of the armrests, bearing in mind the sitter’s interchangeable use of various IT devices and gadgets.

Inspine is slated appear as a featured highlight at Singapore’s Indesign Fair and Orgatec Fair in Cologne this October. www.kokuyo.com

LEFT: The lumbar area is given added support via a hidden coil of wire adjustable through a turning knob located on the backrest.

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HOT SEAT True to its “Inspiration at work” ethos, Euro’s Theory Chair adapts itself to you and your workspace.

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THEORY | EURO

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chair isn’t just a chair anymore, especially if a good chunk of one’s workday is spent wheeling and dealing about on it. Taking these long tiresome hours into account, Euro, the furniture solutions brand, has designed an office chair that keeps the sitter’s physical wellbeing in mind. Whether one is putting in a conventional eight-hour stint or burning the midnight oil, the understated look of the pared-down Theory Chair belies the level of complexity that has gone into its design.

Created for long-term support, the construction of this revolutionary model places the emphasis on healthy posture. Theory is defined by a range of notable features - users will reap the benefits of an ergonomically contoured fixed armrest, height adjustable headrest as well as a special backrest with a prominent lower arch that offers premium support at all times. Additional highlights such as a handy swivel armrest and an easy-touch height adjustable back seat rest make the experience that much better.

Wonderfully functional, Theory is easy on the eyes to boot – design aficionados will appreciate the chair’s pleasing lines and sleek structure, enabling it to adapt to virtually any home or office-based setting. The versatile design is also available in a variety of different formats, materials and contemporary colours – there’s the option to choose from the wheeled, leather-upholstered version or an immobile model featuring a chrome cantilever base which triumphs all as the ideal conference or meeting-room chair. www.eurochairs.com

TOP: Made with individual comfort in mind, Theory is an office chair that literally moves with the times.

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ARRIGO

INFINITO

CHAIRS TO BOOST CONCENTRATION Comfortable, adjustable and supportive, a lineup of ergonomic Oasis work chairs are pitched as answer to staying focused on job.

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INFINITO, ARRIGO, MYOR & RELUXE | BUROSC

RELUXE MYOR

TOP: The stackable Refluxe scores points on practicality and efficiency.

LEFT: Arrayed in ergonomic features, the Infinito, Arrigo and Myor promote a healthy and energetic sitting experience.

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ou may think the work chair is merely an adroit agglomeration of steel springs and upholstery and a place to sit. But according to Oasis, not having the right chair can actually lead to loss of concentration.

Seeing the need for office workers as well as executives to have higher concentration levels, especially when the work ethic appears to be one that strives for high performance and productivity, Oasis has expanded into seating that are devoted to drowning out the distractions. The company has recently rolled out a quartet of chairs that not only parades under the banner of ergonomics but also offers a new sitting experience for people who have to sit for long periods of time at work.

Pitched as the ultimate work chairs, Reluxe, Arrigo, Infinito and Myor, Oasis asserts, work immediately to improve posture, stimulate movement and keep joints and muscles active while sitting.

The chairs are designed on the somewhat radical premise that the more movement - forwards-and-backwards, side-to-side, up-and-down, or what ergonomic specialists call active sitting - the better. Once you achieve active sitting, your core muscles will become stronger and you will find your posture improve, and

joints become less stiff. In fact, it is this continuous cycle between body and chair, action and reaction that energises the body, increasing concentration levels and focus.

Oasis also touts comfort and support as the other key attributes of its high-performance collection, as the more comfortable the body is the more energy is left for the thought process, and providing the proper support will help relieve the stress from working. Outfitted with adjustable seat depths, seat heights, headrests, armrests and lumbar support, the BIFMA (Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association) certified Reluxe, Arrigo, Infinito and Myor promise not only to be comfortable, high-quality ergonomic work chairs but ones on which the sitter will stay focused for some eight hours of each day. www. burosc.com

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BOTTOM & RIGHT: Easily customisable, Tyde gives users the option to choose from a range of features that promote regular movement within office surroundings.

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TYDE | SPACE FURNITURE

STANDING OVATION Allowing for stand-up meetings of up to ten people, the Tyde desk range notably promotes better concentration and posture by eschewing the lazy sit-down approach to important matters.

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ince the practice of sitting put for the duration of an entire workday has been declared an unwise activity where one’s long-term physical health is concerned, ergonomics have understandably become an ingrained part of contemporary office chair design. And while an impressive selection of intelligently fashioned modern supports have emerged from this, there are those who still prefer to take things standing up.

Taking into account these two very different approaches, the Tyde office furniture range from Swiss company Vitra offers an easy option to alternating your working position every so often, extending one’s workday movements beyond a casual walk between the photocopier, pantry or toilet. Conceived by design wunderkind brothers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Tyde moves beyond the notion of sit-stand tables for single workstations, reintroducing the concept to encompass double workstations and conference tables as well. Its multifaceted design is particularly mindful of the increasingly common open office scenario, incorporating clever acoustic features such as a quiet electric motor for the height adjustment component and specially developed polyester fleece screens that serve to play down ensuing ambient noise.

Available in a broad range of desk types, the pieces are inherently versatile thanks to their capacity to accommodate numerous functions including the aforementioned sit-stand table motor, a hand crank or a manual locking mechanism for standard tables. And if that isn’t enough, users with a yen for further customisation can easily do so with the help of add-ons such as technical beams, various screens and CPU holders. www.spacefurniture.com

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CARPET FLOORING

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HUMAN NATURE™ | INTERFACE

NATURAL ATTRACTION

A winsome new collection of sustainably crafted carpet tiles by Interface taps into our inherent need to connect with nature.

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s the world’s largest manufacturer of carpet tile, Interface notably defied the negative associations of its petroleum-intensive industry by revising conventional manufacturing processes, coming on top as an innovative business built on sound, sustainable practices. Forty-one years after inventing the nearubiquitous carpet tile, the American company founded by the late American industrial engineer and entrepreneur Ray Anderson is still drawing inspiration from nature and making a splash with global businesses and individual consumers alike for its inventive, design-oriented approach to floor coverings.

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Human Nature, its recently launched carpet tile collection, perfectly exemplifies Interface’s ethos. The collection, which reiterates the company’s 20-year history as a groundbreaking green business, touches on our intrinsic human need to connect with nature. Conceived by designer and longtime Interface collaborator David Oakey, five featured skinny plank tiles from the collection visually evoke a variety of pleasing organic textures; tactile surfaces such as tumbled pebbles, freshly cut grass and lush forest grounds are given the spotlight, playing up the feel of a leisurely walk in the park while contributing to a sophisticated and comfortable office environment. “In Human Nature, we’ve combined the best of both worlds – the hard surface look of planks with the benefits of soft textured carpet tiles that feel comfortable and natural underfoot,” notes Oakey.

Showcasing a versatile palette of earthy grays, neutrals and browns, the tiles are made with 100 percent recycled content nylon yarn. Manufactured in six Interface factories spread across four continents, the products embody a truly international provenance as well as a conscientious one: since the company became more mindful about its environmental impact two decades earlier, its factories have also been rethought as an entity, becoming 39 percent more energy-efficient and consuming 83 percent less water on average. To boot, 35 percent of the

energy used for manufacturing facilities is derived from renewable sources.

Mirroring previous Interface collections, Human Nature is rooted in functionality as well as aesthetics. Aside from acoustics benefits provided by the tiles, the skinny plank format allows for a seamless broadloom look. The Human Nature series also make the ideal compliment to Interface’s signature 50cm and 1m square carpet tiles in creating unique combinations of textures and tones, emerging as a stark contrast to conventionally monotone office interiors while enlivening workplace dynamics.

“We’d like to believe Mother Nature would be both flattered and impressed with what Interface has produced...what architects and interior designers can create with it…and what beautiful thinking those creations can inspire in the workplace,” says Interface executive creative director Chip DeGrace. www.interface.com

CARPET FLOORING

LEFT TO RIGHT: Inspired by a range of organic textures and surfaces, Human Nature’s versatile skinny plank tiles can be combined and rearranged to create eyecatching carpet installations.

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HUMAN NATURE™ | INTERFACE

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EDITOR’S PICK 1. HN820 004 Limestone 2. HN810 004 Limestone 3. HN850 004 Limestone 4. HN840 004 Limestone 5. HN830 002 Maize 6. HN830 005 Clementine 7. HN830 006 Kiwi

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Note: The collection is only available in Skinny planks format, 25cm x 100 cm. The signature squares are 50 x 50 cm

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STYLE + SUBSTANCE Niro Granite’s Stockholm selection is bound to stoke floor envy with its modern vintage and classy appeal.

GSK03 Grey Knight |

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PORCELAIN TILES

I TOP: With their distinctive hues, textures and patterns, Stockholm tiles are sure to infuse visual interest into spacious interiors.

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STOCKHOLM | NIRO GRANITE

f you’re looking for new flooring, it may be time to opt for the prosaic made to look pristine. With Niro Granite’s Stockholm collection, new design life has been breathed into porcelain tiles.

With cutting-edge computer technology and new firing and printing techniques, Stockholm tiles are made to simulate the organic quality of raw concrete yet retain their hard and impervious quality which is suitable for high-traffic floor areas.

An aesthetic nod towards clean and contemporary architectural interiors, Stockholm offers a neutral palette of white, beige, grey and dark grey that mimic colours emblematic of Stockholm city. Available in four varieties of designs, the Stockhom ensemble has flexibility in design that goes far beyond the traditional simple quarry tiles. Taking inspiration from the stately Bonde Palace and the serenity of Rosendals, Stockholm’s largest commercial garden, or echoing the sleek beauty of the city’s wintry landscape and the

surreal spectacle of the midnight sun, the tiles have the size and scope to be a room’s star attraction.

Perhaps a significant development is that the Stockholm matte-finished porcelain tiles come in a larger size measuring 60 x 120cm - although they are also available in the usual squares of 60 cm - which are especially popular for surfacing the walls and floors of large areas such as concourses, lobbies and halls.

The Stockholm porcelain tiles are also ideal as fashionable flooring in art galleries, retail spaces and uptown offices, thanks to their modern vintage allure and understated elegance. Like marble, these porcelain tiles can be polished to a satiny glow. www.nirogranite.com

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DESIGN IS VALUE CREATION TOP: Max Ottenwälder regards his work: the Glance lamp, designed for Oligo.

On the road to becoming a bestselling lamp with abiding popularity: “Glance”, drafted by Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder and recipient of numerous prizes.

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LED LAMP

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GLANCE | OTTENWÄLDER UND OTTENWÄLDER

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ommissioned by Oligo lampmakers, Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder designed a family of lamps that has garnered numerous prizes. Glance is already slated to receive the Focus Open award in silver during October of 2014.

Petra Kurz-Ottenwälder, co-founder and co-owner of the design studio located in the town of Schwäbisch Gmünd, explains why that is so. “Glance joins an air of classic elegance with modern LED technology. Its clear use of forms wakes associations with the lampshade of days long past. That is why Glance immediately invokes empathy. The observer can identify with it at once.”

Its design means added value at every level.

“Feel the Light” is the guiding theme at Oligo. The products made by this manufacturer, located in the North Rhine-Westphalian town of Bad Honnef, focus primarily on customer needs. They are crafted to appeal on an emotional level. When the decision was made to undertake new development for the Glance family of lamps, Oligo sought an expert and skilled partner for the design – and won over Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder for this project.

BESTSELLERS AND ENDURING PRODUCTS IN EVERY INDUSTRY In selecting Petra Kurz-Ottenwälder and Max Ottenwälder for this assignment, the company chose designers who enjoy a history of bestsellers and long-standing products in every industry. In outdoor lighting, they designed the Triangle and Stradasole lamps, produced by Philips AEG for more than twenty years now. They developed lighting concepts for Hoffmeister to illuminate retail shops and museums. “I have known your work in the illumination industry for many years now, and that is why I am here today – and why I want you to design lamps for Oligo.” It was with these words that Thomas Mänecke, CEO at Oligo Lichttechnik GmbH, approached the designers.

Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder were given a frank briefing where certain key data were laid down. This design for residential spaces was to be suitable for use in table, wall-mounted, ceiling, and floor lamps. It was necessary to provide the space required for the electrical fittings, LED technology, and heat sinks at the circuit boards. Also revealed was the targeted production price for these lamps. The choice of materials was unrestricted.

THE DESIGN: CREATING VALUE AT EVERY LEVEL

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TOP: Glance: The clear design vernacular immediately sparks associations with the lampshade of days long past.

LEFT: The designers at Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder have joined classic elegance with modern LED technology.

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The design office implemented these specifications with the objective of creating an Oligo design that generates value at various levels. “The design vernacular creates long-term appeal and is defined by classic forms. The staying power of this iconic design represents value for the user. Also of interest are low power consumption and the extremely long lives of the LED circuit boards. Cost efficiency, thanks to the modular design principle and the intelligent plug connector, represents an important value for production operations. In regard to marketing efforts, the broad groups to which Glance appeals is of inestimable value. What’s more, the high product quality and longevity represent value for the environment,” explains Kurz-Ottenwälder.

FEEL THE LIGHT: THE ARCHETYPICAL TABLE LAMP REINTERPRETED “Feel the Light.” This Oligo maxim inspired the designers to draft an archetype characterized by favourable and sometimes even sentimental associations,” according to Max Ottenwälder. “The shape chosen for Glance is empathetic – and the most important feature of a lamp in living areas is this spirit of empathy,” is his conviction.

The light itself is sympathetic and can be regulated in a playful fashion: “Bright – dim – upward – downward – to any side – it can even be tilted. Simply remounting the lamp head has something playfully simple about it. There quickly arises a personal identification with the lamp, I can relate to it at once,” Ottenwälder continues.

COLOUR CAN TURN A PRODUCT INTO AN ICON Innovation is not placed in the foreground; the user senses newness in the form of increased convenience and comfort and recognizes a difference from the classic table lamp, even though the difference is very subtle. New are the unusually shallow proportions, the movable head and the gesture control. LED technology makes it possible to leave an opening where the bulb is normally located. This gives an impression of lightness and – just like the choice of colours – is a further feature lending empathy and significance to the Glance line. The subject of colour is fundamental for Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder in this context. “Colour makes life even brighter and is a personal statement. Colour projects emotions and is important for identification with a product. Colour can turn a product into an icon.”

Glance has been on the market only since the autumn of 2013 but in this short period has already won five design prizes, including the prestigious iF Product Design Award for 2014 and the Interior Innovation Award for 2014 in the “Selection” category. The sixth such recognition is already in the offing: the Focus Open 2014 in silver.

From the very start, this makes Glance a success story for Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder. It promises to be a bestseller and one with abiding popularity. www.ottenwaelder.de

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OFFICECONCEPT.ASIA

“The shape chosen for Glance is empathetic – and the most important feature of a lamp in living areas is this spirit of empathy” Max Ottenwälder

BOTTOM: Colour is fundamental for Ottenwälder und Ottenwälder, since it turns a product into an icon.

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SPACE FURNITURE

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SPACE FURNITURE THEME:

DISCOVER THE STORY OF CARL HANSEN & SØN

VENUE:

SPACE FURNITURE @ THE INTERMARK, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

WEBSITE: SPACEFURNITURE.ASIA or CARLHANSEN.COM

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SPOTLIGHT

A LIGHT TOUCH Harsh lighting can prove detrimental to the intended ambience of a space, in spite of how attractive the actual light source may be. Studio Integrate’s design objective for their award-winning deFUSE light directly addresses this dilemma, bringing about a thoughtfully crafted piece that distributes light in an effective yet considered manner.

Deriving DeFUSE’s eye-catching format from a lattice of the intricately patterned Penrose based modules readily identified in ancient Persian architecture, the designers set about tweaking the form and recasting the unique shape in polyurethane.

The finalised design – an abstracted configuration vaguely resembling an artful amalgamation of tree branches - evolved as a result of creating a polygonal division pattern on a rectangular region. By seamlessly incorporating 11 spot LEDs across its top face, the designers optimised the skeletal format of the light piece, giving rise to the desired distribution of light. Even the negative spaces within the piece are imbued with a specific purpose; ranging in size, the organic voids that sit between the grid-like pattern give rise to the design’s dynamic look and feel, reinforced by inherent shifts in light intensity brought about by the LEDs. Despite DeFuse’s boldly wrought outline, its design is consciously pared down on a whole, giving the wall or ceiling mountable piece a strong sense of versatility by keeping the spotlight poised on the space in question. www.studiointegrate.com | | | | | |

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