A Bold Company Philosophy Is the Best Foundation

It is immediately apparent on entering the building that there is much more going on here than just open-plan office space. Communication is an integral part of the working method and mind-set at AEB. This is immediately visible and palpable: from the reception area, your gaze travels past a deconstructed lounge island, through a wide expanse of glass and into the canteen, which is essentially part of the lobby thanks to the transparency. Balconies that project out into the open atrium offer informal communication zones with varying levels of intimacy. The use of frameless glass and glass balustrades enables flowing transitions, as well as changing vistas and insights into the multifunctional spatial constellations. The open airspace allows for continuous sight axes and visual connections from the entrance area all the way up to the fourth floor. The interior space positively breathes the spirit of the company’s guiding philosophy.

The canteen is the most important locus of informal communication; partaking of lunch is only a small part of what goes on here. A range of seating in the form of large tables, intimate booths, casual bistro chairs and the direct juxtaposition to the garden create a restaurant-like atmosphere with multiple seating qualities. Red light frames above the refectory tables structure and zone the space without creating any barriers.

Informal communication zones can be found on every floor on the large and small balconies, which are located in diagonally opposing corners of the square atrium floorplan. On the large terraces that overhang the atrium, deep-pile carpets create lounges with diverse seating possibilities from throne-like armchairs and flexible sofa landscapes to moveable poufs. Adjacent kitchenettes transform these areas into communicative zones for informal meetings and brief discussions. Bold pendant luminaires set striking highlights on the large balconies and serve as a vertical connection between floors. On the smaller, recessed balconies, it is all about creating a ‘front room’ ambience. Seating groups with wing chairs and a library with specialist literature create a quiet place where employees can work undisturbed.