TRACK

“Revitalising renovation works best with a thoughtful understanding of the substance’s potential, smart use of material and a harmonic, stimulating lighting and colour concept.” Ben van Berkel, UNStudio "The Frankfurt office of the global architecture and design firm UNStudio recently moved into a former bank building in the very centre of Frankfurt am Main. For generations, the Bethmann family operated its private banking business from this historic two-wing building. Now, however, it has been enlivened with an interim usage concept called “Massif Central,” a curated community of creative businesses and public events that is fast becoming the new urban hotspot of Frankfurt am Main. As you approach UNStudio’s office via a monumental staircase, you are welcomed by a colourful entrance that gives a sneak peek of the inspiring atmosphere within. The office itself translates the current global inspiration for innovation into a cosy local cluster of culture – a workplace that exudes an atmosphere of freedom and creativity and gives employees a feeling of home.The overall office setup integrates two hot desk islands that are connected by a central family table and an inspirational library and reading area. The community room offers a space for free-spirited ideation and interaction, while two meeting rooms enable connection to the global United Network Studio. The social centre of the space, created by the big multifunctional wooden family table, is literally highlighted by “soliscape,” the combined lighting and ambient system that can be adapted to different situations and creates the optimum atmosphere for inspiration and well-being.The clever reuse of building materials and the sophisticated promotion of the inherent potential of the existing space were the key themes of the renovation concept. The challenging light situation, caused by the wing constellation of the building and the shadowing effect of the surroundings, was mastered by the specific use of adaptable lighting systems, such as soliscape and Shiftline with Spy Spot and Jum-OH! As the space is being used as a temporary location, most of the interior items can later be taken away and reused.This inspiring office environment was further enriched with modular interior systems from Fantoni and furniture pieces by La Cividina, Walter Knoll, and Ondarreta – all of which are products that were designed as collaborations between UNStudio’s Experience Design Team and international producers of high-quality furniture. You may have also spotted our friendly companions, the Doraffs, a playful multifunctional object UNStudio designed with Alessi, a leading exponent of Italian design."