The current lifestyle and work format necessitate numerous changes in the arrangement of office and commercial spaces. Designers and architects at Grupa RB employ modern design solutions that address the needs of users.
“When designing the lighting in the headquarters of Kaufland Polska, we aimed to maximize the use of natural light. We opted for technologically advanced intelligent building control systems, including automatic blinds that allow for the regulation of natural light influx. To reduce noise levels, we used materials that enhance acoustics improvement, such as suspended ceilings, ceiling panels above workstations, and wall panels with high sound absorption coefficients. We also separated workstations with acoustic partitions. In conference rooms, we implemented solutions conducive to conducting meetings with clients, ensuring privacy” – says Mateusz Biernacki, an architect from Grupa RB.
The comfort and ergonomic arrangement of the furniture used are also of significance. Nowadays, greenery plays an increasingly important role in interior design, opening a separate chapter of design and even becoming a distinct specialization. Relaxation zones, designed to promote quick regeneration and enhance the office’s attractiveness, are also gaining popularity.
For several years now, the popularity of projects incorporating greenery in their designs has been on the rise, including both the arrangement of plants and modern green systemic solutions such as green walls. These solutions improve aesthetics, positively impact human health, and provide comfort. Green environments absorb CO2, produce oxygen, humidify, and purify the air. Walls covered with vegetation cool and shade, making it easier to cope with high temperatures. Among many attractive solutions, those where greenery naturally penetrates into the interior of the building and takes on a new decorative significance are particularly captivating.
“The green office” is not just a modern approach to the workplace. Besides their visual aspects, plants fulfill many important functions. They act with their color and scent, soothing and improving the well-being of users. By producing oxygen, they enrich the atmosphere, purify the air, and thus stimulate creative thinking and increase productivity.
In the interior design project of the headquarters of the RB Group architectural office, greenery, appropriately emphasized by light, became an accent in representative spaces and a leading motif in the relaxation area. The use of simple potted solutions was enough to add character and modernity to the interior. Green compositions were further emphasized by wallpapers with plant motifs.
“When creating the conceptual design for the Asseco office building, we used greenery to emphasize both visual and functional aspects. By using tall planters and latticework, we separated the utility space. We introduced vegetation into the rooms, cozy chill-out zones, and even the staircase by creating a green wall. All of these interventions create a healthier and aesthetically more interesting space” – emphasizes Oskar Będkowski, an architect at the Grupa RB .
The changing lifestyle and consumer needs are prompting investors to implement modern ways of arranging commercial spaces. For the contemporary user, comfort and convenience are paramount. Living in a constant rush and being overwhelmed by stimuli, friendly user spaces are gaining importance.
Today’s arrangements of commercial premises are created with consideration for marketing policies but also with adherence to modern visual aesthetics, constantly adapted to current trends.
“In designing the interior – in accordance with the dm network standard – we focused on both business and investment goals, as well as on fulfilling the brand’s main promise, which is to create a space that emphasizes that the individual matters. Therefore, the spaces between the shelves are significantly larger than those we are accustomed to in other stores. This space provides shopping comfort and freedom of movement, especially for families with children, where maneuvering space with a stroller is very important. In addition to this, there is a special arrangement of shelves, cozy, non-aggressive lighting, and a resting place in the form of a bench or magnifying glass at the shopping carts” – emphasizes Joanna Kulak, architect at Grupa RB responsible for the design of the first dm store.
“Another example of a strong focus on the individual is the kitchen project for employees. The goal of dm and ours was to create a space that would resemble a home kitchen as much as possible and be a place of rest and regeneration. As the owner of the design office, I am very pleased with investments that focus not only on business efficiency but also on user needs” – adds Anna Brok, co-owner of Grupa RB.
Trends in implementing ecological solutions have firmly established themselves in the architectural industry, including the design of office spaces. Companies, mindful of the environment and the well-being of their employees, aim for energy efficiency. Designers thus create bright spaces flooded with significant amounts of natural light. The Green Deal and sustainable development policies emphasize controlling the carbon footprint. Therefore, there is a growing trend towards collaborating with local suppliers and utilizing high-quality, native materials.
Architects are attentive to the needs of space users. The desire for a connection with nature and a lifestyle aligned with cherished values has led to greater emphasis on arrangement and visual aesthetics. Designing biofilic spaces, which are friendly to modern, conscious users, has become the response to these needs. Biofilic interior arrangements incorporate materials such as wicker, wool, glass, or terracotta, with plants being an essential element. This trend, increasingly visible in office buildings, is appreciated by employees.
Designing interiors based on a conscious understanding of user needs is the essence of design thinking. Creating in line with this idea requires a comprehensive approach to the project, based on the expertise of specialists from various fields.
The pandemic has brought about numerous changes in the way we work. The possibility of remote work has significantly raised employees’ expectations regarding the arrangement of office space.
Architects have been faced with the challenge of creating workspaces that encourage employees to return to the office. Modern arrangements feature numerous amenities such as relaxation areas or fitness zones. These designs aim to meet employees’ expectations and encourage them to choose office space over working from home.
“Modern office spaces serve two functions simultaneously. On the one hand, they provide the comfort necessary for focused work, while on the other hand, they create opportunities for building relationships and strengthening bonds. As designers, we must take into account both the business expectations of the Investor – economic system solutions, as well as the individual needs of employees – work comfort. Among the new ideas increasingly implemented by employers are hot desks – shared workstations. This solution allows for the economic use of space. We implement various solutions that also provide privacy and the possibility of focus in open space offices. One example is call boxes, where one can work in silence” – says Ewa Szpotowicz, an architect at Grupa RB responsible for the design of Grupa RB’s office headquarters.
Employees need spaces where they can collaborate and share experiences. The proper arrangement of office interiors, considering ergonomic principles, builds a sense of comfort. Striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality in office and commercial spaces, as well as thoughtful, environmentally friendly solutions, ensures comfort and meets the contemporary needs of space users.
