7 Office Space Interior Design Concepts in Asia You Need to See

With most people spending a good chunk of their days in the workplace, office space interior design can make a big difference in motivating employees and improving productivity. Many companies are turning to novel concepts for office design, such as open-concept spaces and nature-inspired elements.

To provide some inspiration, here are seven incredible workplaces in Asia, all of which happened to be designed or built by Space Matrix.

1. Uber Singapore

Uber Singapore’s new 55,000 sq ft office space consists of group workspaces with writable walls. Such open-concept spaces are increasingly being recognised as a way to allow employees to socialise and engage with each other. This in turn breaks down office hierarchy and boosts morale.

Wellness activities also play a large part in the workplace design. For example, a stepped amphitheatre also functions as a yoga centre. Uber has also recognised the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace. Design elements such as black-and-white wall graphics turn the space into a giant canvas that employees can draw or colour on. Such features promote creativity and mindful living in the workplace.

2. Piramal Mumbai

Piramal’s new Mumbai office radiates a cosy, nurturing vibe that aligns with its corporate values of “knowledge, action, care and impact.” Also running parallel to this theme, natural materials and green elements are used to promote well-being, creativity and productivity.

The massive 146,000 sq ft space was transformed into a contemporary workspace by:

• Utilising natural materials like wood and glass walls to allow sunlight to stream in
• Accommodating future changes in headcount through flexible solutions
• Converting a cubicle space currently set aside for management into four linear workstations for employees
• Adorning the walls with scenes from the Indian courtyard concept for social gatherings

3. 1880 Singapore

The idea behind 1880 was conceived by Marc Nicholson, who was inspired by the aesthetics and business model of London’s Soho House in the 90’s. 1880 is meant to provide a space where people from different walks of life can partake in constructive dialogue. The interiors of the space are hence built around the themes of convergence, contrast, creativity, energy and flow and versatility.

And what better way is there to spark conversation between patrons than with a big crystal centrepiece sourced from Madagascar? The piece encapsulates the notion of articulating conversation through art. 1880’s sleek decor has been crafted by Timothy Oulton Studio and it certainly manages to provide a great ambience for creative and exploring minds to relax and connect with each other.

4. Eaton Club Hong Kong

Eaton Club’s new fintech hub and social work club in Hong Kong is a truly unique co-working space. Its members can work and network, whilst enjoying a private members’ lounge that includes a bar and pantry.

This hybrid design concept where work and relaxation coexist has been made possible with a work area that can be converted into an events space. Most of the furniture – chairs, desks and bar tables – are on wheels, and can be moved around easily.  The special feature of a 15-meter-long wooden bar counter top, combined with the deep brown leather wall behind the bar further adds to the luxurious look. Carpet-lined floors also give the space a wide open feel.

5. thebridge Singapore

thebridge is a new community workspace in Singapore by Ascendas-Singbridge, Asia’s largest business space planner. thebridge is meant to promote a culture of work communities. Visitors and patrons are immediately inspired to explore upon arrival, thanks to large interactive media screens in the lobby.

Flexible workspaces consist of standing workstations, informal amphitheatres and seating areas. These workspaces are entwined with recreational zones that allow for collaboration in a relaxed setting. Work-life quality is therefore immensely improved and patrons can not only have access to a work space, but can also a host of other services.

6. Microsoft Taipei

Microsoft wanted its 75,000 sq ft office in Taiwan to encapsulate a new approach to design that would humanise technology. Its “Formosa” theme reflects Taiwan’s rich heritage, and several cultural references have been incorporated into design elements. Flashy signs and wall paintings for example, are reminiscent of Taiwan’s night markets.

In order to accommodate a range of functions, formal and informal spaces have been introduced so that employees can have the best of both worlds. These spaces include a mix of seating options and surface heights to cater to different working styles. The use of greenery and communal spaces also helps to create a homely atmosphere that is immediately apparent to visitors.

7. Prudential Singapore

Prudential in Singapore recently undertook a revamp of its office space in order to provide an environment that is open and promotes collaboration on-the-go. The open concept encourages trust and accountability, as shared spaces are meant to be kept clean and immaculate. To create tranquil settings for employees to carry out discussions, a Zen garden and other nature-inspired elements were also introduced.

Innovation is key here. Unique elements of the space include:

• a large video wall where events can be live-streamed
• a water-feature tunnel that creates a calm ambience
• a cocoon-like structure consisting of four massive timber domes that house a barista and collaboration spaces

These features have created a unique next-generation workspace where employees feel at home.