An Open Invitation

With its seamless interplay of form, materiality and spatial experience, Wutai’s new office is a space of possibility. The predominantly white interior serves as a blank canvas for staff activity and interaction, while flowing architectural lines create a dynamic environment, capable of adapting to its users. Openings in the ceiling establish visual and spatial connections between the floors, promoting a sense of openness, belonging and exchange. This infinite space extends an open invitation to think, discover and maintain physical and mental agility.

The monochrome materiality emphasises the concept of a living organism as an ever-changing, infinite space. The materiality of the terrazzo floor anchors the interior, while a sculptural metal staircase serves as a striking centrepiece and vertical axis for spontaneous encounters. New perspectives on the office open up from the staircase at ever-changing angles, stimulating a spirit of discovery. Soft yet precise lighting reinforces the organic flow, while absorbent walls provide acoustic comfort to create a dynamic yet calm workspace.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a three-storey sculptural space. Ceiling openings emphasise the dynamism of the space and allow natural light to enter. The water drop-shaped reception counter picks up on the dynamic geometry of the walls, which, along with metal curtains and acoustic fabrics, lend the space depth and movement. A central marketplace gives the entrance floor a flexible centre, encouraging interaction and adaptability. Agile tables, arena seating, swinging chairs and a cafeteria create a flexible environment that encourages spontaneous interaction and fosters creativity and dialogue. The surrounding work areas are organised into neighbourhoods so that the different departments each have their own zone yet always remain part of the whole.

Movement is not just a formal translation of the corporate culture into the space; it is also a direct invitation. Like a stadium running track, a strip of flooring winds its way through the space. It connects the various areas, transforming traditional corridors into dynamic, interactive meeting places. With its sporting association, the track encourages employees to take short walks or hold spontaneous walk-and-talk meetings, thus recalling Wutai’s mission to integrate a healthy lifestyle into everyday working life.

The multifunctional space on the top floor can be used for presentations, exhibitions and events. An interactive brand exhibition allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the company’s history and highlights key milestones in its development. In the immediate vicinity is a large archive reminiscent of a museum collection. The company’s history is stored in safe-like roller cabinets here. This means of presentation demonstrates the great respect that should be afforded to one’s own history, which can serve as a source of future innovation when studied.