GLab

como Arquitectos

GLab by Faslink is a dynamic coworking, event, and archive space in Ho Chi Minh City, designed for academics, professionals, and innovators in the fabric industry. The space serves as a hub for research, development, and promotion of environmentally friendly materials in textiles, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-conscious design. The goal was to create an inspiring environment where diverse activities—from workshops to collaborative projects—could take place while showcasing sustainable design practices and materials in the fabric industry.

photo_credit Hiroyuki Oki — Hiroyuki Oki

Key Challenges:

The primary challenge in designing GLab was creating a flexible, multifunctional space that could cater to a wide range of activities, including research, development, workshops, and collaborative events. Each of these functions required a different spatial configuration, making adaptability essential. Additionally, the design needed to reflect the core values of the space—sustainability and innovation—while also offering a clean, focused environment for creative work.

Another challenge was to integrate the elements of the design in a way that would encourage collaboration and allow for easy reconfiguration. The use of sustainable materials had to be highlighted without overwhelming the space, and the design needed to strike a balance between openness and functionality.

Material Selection and Design Intent:

The design of GLab centers around simplicity, transparency, and sustainability. Located on the 15th floor of Viettel Tower, the space is bathed in natural light, offering panoramic views of the city. The interiors feature neutral, monotone finishes, creating a calming backdrop, while vibrant fabrics and greenery introduce energy and highlight the space’s sustainable focus.

A key design feature is the ceiling system, which integrates lighting, movable partitions, and display rails. This modular system allows the space to be easily reconfigured to accommodate various activities, from events to collaborative work. The flexibility of the ceiling system enables multiple zones within the open plan without sacrificing openness or connectivity. The custom fabric fin design, developed by Faslink’s team, emphasizes the use of sustainable, locally sourced materials, directly reflecting the project’s commitment to eco-friendly design.

The archive area, designed as a library, features sliding cabinets made from recycled boards sourced from Plastic People, a local company specializing in upcycled materials. This innovative approach not only reinforces GLab's sustainable mission but also provides a functional and visually appealing storage solution. These upcycled materials contribute to the space's overall eco-conscious ethos and serve as a demonstration of the potential of waste materials in design.

GLab integrates sustainability into every aspect, from its modular layout to its use of local, sustainable materials. The design prioritizes functionality and flexibility, making the space adaptable to a variety of uses without compromising on its core values. The emphasis on transparency, natural light, and open spaces encourages collaboration and creativity, allowing the diverse community of researchers and professionals to thrive.