The GT Invest Office in Oostkamp, Belgium
This office introduces a contemporary reinterpretation of a traditional workspace concept, creating an environment that resembles a refined cigar lounge rather than a conventional workplace. Located within the O-Forty office complex in Oostkamp, Belgium, the project embodies a clear vision: to craft a space that fosters both flexibility and comfort.
Materials and Palette
The material selection emphasizes warmth and richness. Vertical surfaces and storage units are predominantly clad in wood, fostering a sense of intimacy and organic texture. A warm grey carpet grounds the space, enhancing acoustic comfort and visual cohesion. The climate control system integrates seamlessly into the ceiling, utilizing a geothermal energy backbone combined with aluminum lamellae that emit both heating and cooling, ensuring comfort with minimal visual intrusion.
The soft bronze finish of the aluminum elements subtly complements the vertical wood, creating a harmonious material dialogue. Additional touches of stainless steel and stone accentuate the bar and kitchen areas, while the building’s glazed exterior is the sole element of transparency, with glass absent from interior partitions to promote privacy within an open yet segmented plan.
Layout and Zoning
The floor plan promotes a fluid yet functional spatial arrangement. Six enclosed offices, along with a collaborative workspace for four, are positioned along the perimeter, maximizing privacy and acoustic performance. The central zone features a versatile lounge and bar, serving as both a reception area and a social hub. This area includes comfortable sofas, a bar counter, and a compact kitchen, opening onto a terrace that
offers views of the entire premises.
Designed for adaptability, the interior features smart, movable wooden walls and lamellae, allowing spaces to be reconfigured swiftly in response to evolving needs. The open layout fosters a sense of unbound freedom, encouraging dynamic co-working—spaces connect seamlessly when open and provide focused concentration when closed. The offices are arranged along the perimeter, creating an central area that emphasizes a culture of collaborative agility over rigid project-based zones.
The design prioritizes acoustic comfort, employing carpeted floors and acoustically absorptive ceiling panels to cultivate a muted soundscape that facilitates engagement rather than making it a burden for others. This environment nurtures spontaneous interactions while maintaining tranquility, akin to a home office ambiance.
A Serene, Residential Atmosphere
The carefully curated blend of natural materials, muted colors, and warm textures cultivates an atmosphere of serenity and calm. The layout of the chambers resembles the intimate and inviting spatial qualities of a hotel lobby or private residence. This space radiates a tranquil, almost slumbering ambiance—more akin to a private home than a bustling corporate office—creating an inviting environment where occupants can work, meet, and connect amidst a sense of coziness and residential charm.
