We, at Studio AsA, were thrilled when Spero Healthcare, a firm that uses technology to enhance patient care and ultimately improve lives, entrusted us with their office design. We saw this as an opportunity to create an environment that was affordable, uplifting, and functional, reflecting the values of healthcare and well-being.
Spero Healthcare had a clear vision for their new office. They needed a design solution that was cost-effective while maintaining functionality and reflecting a sense of well-being. We understood that our client’s needs demanded a thoughtful approach that did not compromise on quality. We tackled this by creating a minimalist interior space and focusing on long-term cost savings for the company. One major focus was the HVAC system. By carefully calculating HVAC needs, the design significantly impacted both energy consumption and user comfort while reducing operational costs.
The entire office focused on parameters such as advanced ventilation systems, room occupancy sensors, reservable meeting spaces, automated lighting design, smart lockers, and security measures that were incorporated to monitor and optimize space performance. This comprehensive approach is anticipated to cultivate a more interactive workforce, ultimately contributing to heightened productivity and employee well-being.
The interiors were thoughtfully punctuated with vibrant phone booths, each painted in warm hues of lime green and blue. These booths served as private spaces for phone calls or focused work, and the vibrant colours added a playful, uplifting element to the space. As sunlight streamed into these booths, the warm colours reflected onto the corridors, creating a beautiful interplay of light and colour that contributed to a welcoming and energizing atmosphere.
Additionally, the office featured large window façades on three sides of the building. To make the most of this natural light, we introduced blinds with 5% transparency. This allowed maximum daylight to filter into the office, reducing the need for artificial lighting and contributing to a light, airy feel throughout the space. Not only did this enhance the atmosphere, but it also helped reduce energy costs, aligning with the project’s cost-effective goals.
A design constraint we faced on-site was the floor-to-ceiling height, which was only 9.5 feet. To create a more expansive feel, we decided to leave the majority of the space with an open ceiling, finished in matte black paint. This technique added a sense of volume to the space, making it feel more spacious and open. In contrast, the private cabins were fitted with false ceilings at a height of 8 feet, offering an intimate and private feel for individual workspaces.
This contrast between open and closed ceiling areas allowed us to play with spatial perceptions while meeting the practical needs of the space. The private areas felt inviting and secure, while the open workspaces encouraged collaboration and communication between teams.
The central workspace was designed to encourage interaction and visual connectivity between various teams. This open-plan design allowed for easy communication and collaboration while still maintaining defined areas for different departments. The free flow between workspaces, meeting areas, and private cabins ensured that the office felt cohesive and connected.
The furniture and storage solutions were customized and manufactured by Tiace Furniture, ensuring that every piece was tailored to the specific needs of the office. Workstations were designed with both functionality and comfort in mind, and smart storage units helped keep the space organized without adding clutter.
To further enhance the atmosphere, we introduced elements of biophilia—bringing nature indoors to create a refreshing, calming environment. Strategically placed plants not only added a touch of greenery but also improved air quality and contributed to the overall well-being of the employees.
We also addressed acoustic challenges by installing carpet flooring in the central workspace and private cabins. The carpets helped absorb noise, creating a quieter, more focused environment. In addition, this choice reduced the risk of slips, making the space safer for employees and visitors alike.
By working alongside Spero’s vision, our team at Studio AsA had the opportunity to showcase our ability to design a space that balanced affordability, functionality, and user comfort. This project stands as a testament to our commitment to creating spaces that enhance both productivity and well-being.
