Arup Warsaw Office
Basic information
Project Title
Arup Warsaw Office
Category
Reconnecting with nature
Project Description
Arup office in Warsaw designed by Workplace combines co-creative, participatory and interdisciplinary approach with neuroscientific research and 6R principles. This space cares about people and the environment. It is a prototype and a laboratory of the future. Testing and showcasing innovative materials and solutions, even growing food. Each year ca. 5 million sqm of new office space is constructed in Europe. With a standard budget this project shows the industry where to take the work and how.
Geographical Scope
National
Project Region
Poland
Urban or rural issues
Mainly urban
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
Arup office in Warsaw designed by Workplace combines co-creative design and interdisciplinary approach with neuroscientific research and 6R principles. This space puts Sustainability, Aesthetics and Inclusion as its top priorities. It cares about people and the environment. It is a prototype and a laboratory of the future. Testing and showcasing innovative materials, sustainable and circular solutions. And even growing their own food. A standard-level budget was a challenge that motivated the search for reclaimed and re-use solutions.
The project goal was to pave the way and set a new direction for the office interiors industry, which generates a huge amount of waste. Every year ca. 8.5 million tonnes of waste from fit-outs end up in landfill.
Given the scale of the industry, any change in approach, even a small one, will translate into huge benefits for the planet. As well as into savings for the investor:
> the reuse of existing structural elements and installations reduced the fit-out cost by 20%
> over 90% of furniture is second-hand, lowering its cost by 40%
> first of their kind light shelves can bring >60% savings on energy per year.
The carbon footprint of this project has been calculated.
Arup office fosters positive habits and nudges you to move more, exercise and stay hydrated.
Ergonomics, acoustics and quality of light stand out as the space was designed following in-depth neuroscientific research to aid regeneration of your body and mind.
This space was created thanks to courage, trust and cooperation. Neuroscientists, lighting and greenery experts, academics, contractors, product suppliers, startups and local artists worked hand in hand.
Arup Warsaw Office has already been recognised by industry experts and won FRAME Awards and PLGBC Polish Green Building Council Awards.
This submission showcases and highlights all the effort carried out by everyone involved in this project. We are openly sharing this knowledge for everyone to learn.
The project goal was to pave the way and set a new direction for the office interiors industry, which generates a huge amount of waste. Every year ca. 8.5 million tonnes of waste from fit-outs end up in landfill.
Given the scale of the industry, any change in approach, even a small one, will translate into huge benefits for the planet. As well as into savings for the investor:
> the reuse of existing structural elements and installations reduced the fit-out cost by 20%
> over 90% of furniture is second-hand, lowering its cost by 40%
> first of their kind light shelves can bring >60% savings on energy per year.
The carbon footprint of this project has been calculated.
Arup office fosters positive habits and nudges you to move more, exercise and stay hydrated.
Ergonomics, acoustics and quality of light stand out as the space was designed following in-depth neuroscientific research to aid regeneration of your body and mind.
This space was created thanks to courage, trust and cooperation. Neuroscientists, lighting and greenery experts, academics, contractors, product suppliers, startups and local artists worked hand in hand.
Arup Warsaw Office has already been recognised by industry experts and won FRAME Awards and PLGBC Polish Green Building Council Awards.
This submission showcases and highlights all the effort carried out by everyone involved in this project. We are openly sharing this knowledge for everyone to learn.
Key objectives for sustainability
The aim of the project was to test the limits of sustainable design of work environments with the wellbeing of people and the planet in mind.
Wellbeing of the planet:
The commercial office space market faces a huge problem of waste and single-use due to the tenancy cycles of usually 5 years. Very often, after this period, the new tenant demolishes the previous layout, which ends up in a landfill. It is estimated that each year, all over the world, 8.5 million tonnes of waste from office fit-outs end up in landfill.
The challenge with this project was to see to what extent it is possible to design a workspace for disassembly. Is it possible to reuse elements from the previous tenant and to design the new office fit-out in such a way that when it reaches the end of its life cycle, as many materials as possible can be reused. To achieve this recycled, second-hand and natural materials were used – often prototype and experimental.
Wellbeing of people:
An equally important objective was to think about the wellbeing of the users of this space. To make it an ergonomic, comfortable and functional space. Neuroscience was incorporated into the process to make this space support restoration of the human body on a biological level.
Results:
Key indicators that have been met and measured
- selective demolition of previous fit-out
- implementation of neuroscience-based design
- re-use of, toilet units, ventilation equipment, suspended ceilings, resulting in a 20% saving of the fit-out budget
- more than 90% of furniture is second-hand, resulting in 40% saving on the furniture budget
Setting an example for the market:
The aim was also to set a good example for the whole market. This project was delivered on a budget at a standard level for this type of development. To show that innovative and sustainable projects do not require huge investments. The key to success is trust and conscience of the investor, as well as courage and clever wise design by the designer.
Wellbeing of the planet:
The commercial office space market faces a huge problem of waste and single-use due to the tenancy cycles of usually 5 years. Very often, after this period, the new tenant demolishes the previous layout, which ends up in a landfill. It is estimated that each year, all over the world, 8.5 million tonnes of waste from office fit-outs end up in landfill.
The challenge with this project was to see to what extent it is possible to design a workspace for disassembly. Is it possible to reuse elements from the previous tenant and to design the new office fit-out in such a way that when it reaches the end of its life cycle, as many materials as possible can be reused. To achieve this recycled, second-hand and natural materials were used – often prototype and experimental.
Wellbeing of people:
An equally important objective was to think about the wellbeing of the users of this space. To make it an ergonomic, comfortable and functional space. Neuroscience was incorporated into the process to make this space support restoration of the human body on a biological level.
Results:
Key indicators that have been met and measured
- selective demolition of previous fit-out
- implementation of neuroscience-based design
- re-use of, toilet units, ventilation equipment, suspended ceilings, resulting in a 20% saving of the fit-out budget
- more than 90% of furniture is second-hand, resulting in 40% saving on the furniture budget
Setting an example for the market:
The aim was also to set a good example for the whole market. This project was delivered on a budget at a standard level for this type of development. To show that innovative and sustainable projects do not require huge investments. The key to success is trust and conscience of the investor, as well as courage and clever wise design by the designer.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
In terms of aesthetics and quality of user experience, four aspects were key in this project:
- A space conducive to restoration through the implementation of neuroscience-based design. Neuroscientists from the Impronta team carried out scientific research into how space influences human wellbeing and well-being on a biological level. They used translational research here, creating five spatial metrics: geometry, lighting, colour, material and olfactory. To the authors' knowledge, this is a pioneering project on an international scale for designing workspaces based on this type of translational research.
These guidelines have been strictly implemented in the project, and further research is planned to verify the effectiveness of the solutions used.
- Ergonomics provided through appropriate lighting, ventilation and furniture fittings.
In particular, lighting parameters were designed by experts from QLab Laboratory of Light to be healthy for the eye. Maximum use was made of natural light (thanks, among other things, to the pioneering implementation of light shelves), followed by the addition of artificial light, also appropriately selected (e.g. in terms of colour temperature, light intensity). The whole is complemented by a system of sensors, automation and lighting scenarios.
- functionality, enhancing the comfort of the space.
Through the research process, it was possible to find out exactly what the users' needs were, including the number and types of spaces they would use. Diversity was ensured, while at the same time the space was designed to support good habits - changing work posture, moving around the office, hydration or physical activity.
- Sustainability - thinking about the wellbeing of the planet.
When implementing all of the aforementioned solutions, constant care was taken to ensure that the materials used, building elements and equipment were as environmentally friendly as possible. Including recycled, second-hand and natural materials.
- A space conducive to restoration through the implementation of neuroscience-based design. Neuroscientists from the Impronta team carried out scientific research into how space influences human wellbeing and well-being on a biological level. They used translational research here, creating five spatial metrics: geometry, lighting, colour, material and olfactory. To the authors' knowledge, this is a pioneering project on an international scale for designing workspaces based on this type of translational research.
These guidelines have been strictly implemented in the project, and further research is planned to verify the effectiveness of the solutions used.
- Ergonomics provided through appropriate lighting, ventilation and furniture fittings.
In particular, lighting parameters were designed by experts from QLab Laboratory of Light to be healthy for the eye. Maximum use was made of natural light (thanks, among other things, to the pioneering implementation of light shelves), followed by the addition of artificial light, also appropriately selected (e.g. in terms of colour temperature, light intensity). The whole is complemented by a system of sensors, automation and lighting scenarios.
- functionality, enhancing the comfort of the space.
Through the research process, it was possible to find out exactly what the users' needs were, including the number and types of spaces they would use. Diversity was ensured, while at the same time the space was designed to support good habits - changing work posture, moving around the office, hydration or physical activity.
- Sustainability - thinking about the wellbeing of the planet.
When implementing all of the aforementioned solutions, constant care was taken to ensure that the materials used, building elements and equipment were as environmentally friendly as possible. Including recycled, second-hand and natural materials.
Key objectives for inclusion
Diversity, equity and inclusion is important for both Arup and Workplace. It was therefore a given that the new work environment of Arup should be as inclusive as possible. In terms of spatial layout it meant designing that is accessible to all user, including with disabilities. The space plan was consulted with Fundacja Integracja, the leading Polish NGO specialising in inclusivity and accessibility for people with disabilities.
The building in which the Arup Warsaw Office is located is adapted to the needs of people with disabilities, taking into account access for wheelchair users, including pathways for the blind and visually impaired, tiflographic maps or induction loops.
The space has been designed in an egalitarian way. Equal for All. Every employee, regardless of their position in the organisation, is free to choose their workspace. Equally equipped, ergonomic workstations of a high standard are available. They can be adapted to individual needs and preferences - including by adjusting the desk height, lighting or ventilation parameters.
There are also a number of other spaces available for users for work, collaboration or restoration. These have been designed to meet a variety of needs, including those of neurodiverse people.
Workplace shares widely the experience from the process for Arup. This development was recognised by industry experts, winning the Polish Green Building Council Awards for Most Sustainable Interior and the FRAME Awards for Best Small Office in the World.
Workplace's experience and Impronta's scientific research was later used to develop the report Neurodiverse in the office, available freely at neuroinclusive.design. The report demonstrates with examples how to design work environments to support the needs of neurodiverse people, including, among others, those on the autism spectrum or with ADHD.
The building in which the Arup Warsaw Office is located is adapted to the needs of people with disabilities, taking into account access for wheelchair users, including pathways for the blind and visually impaired, tiflographic maps or induction loops.
The space has been designed in an egalitarian way. Equal for All. Every employee, regardless of their position in the organisation, is free to choose their workspace. Equally equipped, ergonomic workstations of a high standard are available. They can be adapted to individual needs and preferences - including by adjusting the desk height, lighting or ventilation parameters.
There are also a number of other spaces available for users for work, collaboration or restoration. These have been designed to meet a variety of needs, including those of neurodiverse people.
Workplace shares widely the experience from the process for Arup. This development was recognised by industry experts, winning the Polish Green Building Council Awards for Most Sustainable Interior and the FRAME Awards for Best Small Office in the World.
Workplace's experience and Impronta's scientific research was later used to develop the report Neurodiverse in the office, available freely at neuroinclusive.design. The report demonstrates with examples how to design work environments to support the needs of neurodiverse people, including, among others, those on the autism spectrum or with ADHD.
Results in relation to category
One of the aims of the project was to rely on scientific data and to measure the results of actions. This included both the construction phase and now the operational phase of this space. Some of the indicators will be measurable after a full calendar year of using the new office.
Specific indicators already measured:
- 20% fit-out budget savings compared to using new elements
- 40% budget savings on furniture compared to using the same products but new
- 60-90% energy savings on lighting in the area using light shelves (Qlab Laboratory of Light calculations based on their tests)
- calculated carbon footprint of the whole process
Data to be measured:
- after a whole year of operation it will be possible to count the amount of energy and utilities consumed per number of users/space
Scientific studies that are already being or will be carried out based on this implementation:
- a study by the University of Silesia on the impact of lighting quality on the well-being of users (study in progress)
- Study on the impact of space on employee recovery - neuroscientific validation of applied solutions – research to be conducted by Impronta together with the Max Planck Institute in Berlin, subject to funding
Impact of the project:
Arup Warsaw Office has been covered by the media in Poland and abroad. It has received a number of design awards, including FRAME Awards 2023 in Small Office of the year category and Polish Green Building Council Awards 2023 as the most sustainable interior thus making impact on the industry.
Specific indicators already measured:
- 20% fit-out budget savings compared to using new elements
- 40% budget savings on furniture compared to using the same products but new
- 60-90% energy savings on lighting in the area using light shelves (Qlab Laboratory of Light calculations based on their tests)
- calculated carbon footprint of the whole process
Data to be measured:
- after a whole year of operation it will be possible to count the amount of energy and utilities consumed per number of users/space
Scientific studies that are already being or will be carried out based on this implementation:
- a study by the University of Silesia on the impact of lighting quality on the well-being of users (study in progress)
- Study on the impact of space on employee recovery - neuroscientific validation of applied solutions – research to be conducted by Impronta together with the Max Planck Institute in Berlin, subject to funding
Impact of the project:
Arup Warsaw Office has been covered by the media in Poland and abroad. It has received a number of design awards, including FRAME Awards 2023 in Small Office of the year category and Polish Green Building Council Awards 2023 as the most sustainable interior thus making impact on the industry.
How Citizens benefit
The Arup work environment was designed through a co-creational and interdisciplinary process. Its first stage was a research phase, during which user needs were identified. This was made possible through qualitative research - research interviews and co-creation workshops.
In terms of methodology, it was ensured that the entire Arup team was represented as cross-sectionally as possible. A representative group in terms of gender, age or position was obtained. Almost 50% of the future users participated in the research process, which is an extremely high rate for qualitative research.
Workshops were used to co-create solutions together with future users. Functional needs and aesthetic preferences were explored. Future users' personae and scenarios for their use of the space were created. To achieve this, mental states were used as a framework. In addition to asking how people would like to use the space, they were also asked how they would like to feel there. This additional layer of research provided more information. It emerged that an area that needed to be looked after was the question of rest and restoration in the work space. With these findings, further neuroscientific research was directed accordingly.
The result of involving future users is also that the space created is tailored to the needs and expectations of both individual employees, individual teams and the organisation as a whole.
The result is a space that builds a community of knowledge sharing, which was one of the main goals for Arup in this process.
The most valuable feedback for us is precisely that from users already using the space. They appreciate the functionality, the aesthetics and the values that guided this realisation - the wellbeing of the planet and people. And they feel that they were part of the process.
In terms of methodology, it was ensured that the entire Arup team was represented as cross-sectionally as possible. A representative group in terms of gender, age or position was obtained. Almost 50% of the future users participated in the research process, which is an extremely high rate for qualitative research.
Workshops were used to co-create solutions together with future users. Functional needs and aesthetic preferences were explored. Future users' personae and scenarios for their use of the space were created. To achieve this, mental states were used as a framework. In addition to asking how people would like to use the space, they were also asked how they would like to feel there. This additional layer of research provided more information. It emerged that an area that needed to be looked after was the question of rest and restoration in the work space. With these findings, further neuroscientific research was directed accordingly.
The result of involving future users is also that the space created is tailored to the needs and expectations of both individual employees, individual teams and the organisation as a whole.
The result is a space that builds a community of knowledge sharing, which was one of the main goals for Arup in this process.
The most valuable feedback for us is precisely that from users already using the space. They appreciate the functionality, the aesthetics and the values that guided this realisation - the wellbeing of the planet and people. And they feel that they were part of the process.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
The Arup Warsaw Office project has two main innovative aspects in relation to mainstream office designs around the world. These stem from the fundamental design approach - designing for the wellbeing of both people and the planet.
Designing for human wellbeing based on neuroscience.
The Arup Warsaw Office is, to the authors' knowledge, the first project on an international scale in which scientific research from the field of neuroscience has been so directly translated into a design outcome.
Impronat's interdisciplinary team carried out scientific research into how space influences human wellbeing and welfare on a biological level. In particular, the focus was on restoration, using a range of scientific theories, including Attention Restoration Theory, Stress Recovery Theory and Place Attachment Theory. Translational research was used and translated into five spatial metrics: geometry, lighting, colour, material and olfactory. The aim was to create a space that could meet the requirements of an enriched environment that would positively stimulate the human central nervous system.
These guidelines were strictly implemented in the design.
Designing for the wellbeing of the planet - space from the second loop.
The second innovative area is sustainability.
Selective demolition of the previous tenant's fit-out by general contractor Forbis Group and re-use of built-in installations/materials from the previous tenant, including ca. 50 fan coil units, server room cooling system, slot diffusers, internal doors, most toilet finishes, roller blinds, ceiling panels in work areas.
Conscious choice of new finishing materials, e.g. some of the carpets come from samples backlogged in the Workplace office, they have been given new life. Some carpets came from deadstock. Recycled, recyclable and natural materials were also used, e.g. from flax and hemp or mycelium.
90% of the movable furniture comes from second-hand sources thanks to a collaboration with Zero Waste Design.
Designing for human wellbeing based on neuroscience.
The Arup Warsaw Office is, to the authors' knowledge, the first project on an international scale in which scientific research from the field of neuroscience has been so directly translated into a design outcome.
Impronat's interdisciplinary team carried out scientific research into how space influences human wellbeing and welfare on a biological level. In particular, the focus was on restoration, using a range of scientific theories, including Attention Restoration Theory, Stress Recovery Theory and Place Attachment Theory. Translational research was used and translated into five spatial metrics: geometry, lighting, colour, material and olfactory. The aim was to create a space that could meet the requirements of an enriched environment that would positively stimulate the human central nervous system.
These guidelines were strictly implemented in the design.
Designing for the wellbeing of the planet - space from the second loop.
The second innovative area is sustainability.
Selective demolition of the previous tenant's fit-out by general contractor Forbis Group and re-use of built-in installations/materials from the previous tenant, including ca. 50 fan coil units, server room cooling system, slot diffusers, internal doors, most toilet finishes, roller blinds, ceiling panels in work areas.
Conscious choice of new finishing materials, e.g. some of the carpets come from samples backlogged in the Workplace office, they have been given new life. Some carpets came from deadstock. Recycled, recyclable and natural materials were also used, e.g. from flax and hemp or mycelium.
90% of the movable furniture comes from second-hand sources thanks to a collaboration with Zero Waste Design.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
The Arup Warsaw Office project was interdisciplinary in nature. In addition to the designer (Workplace) and the investor (Arup), a number of partners from different scientific disciplines were involved, including:
Impronta – neuroscience team, including physicians, environmental psychologists, architects and material experts;
QLab Laboratory of Light – natural and artificial lighting specialists;
NAS-DRA Conscious Design - functional greenery;
Zero Waste Design - sustainable and second-hand solutions, including furniture;
Concession Europe – built-in plywood furniture;
Forbis Group - general contractor;
Jerzy Lątka – paper-based solutions;
Mellow Designs - prototype of a partition wall in line with circular economy principles, designed for disassembly.
The aim was to utilise the expertise of Polish specialists and promote local solutions, showing in an open way how pioneering solutions can be implemented within a typical project budget.
Based on a process designed and coordinated by Workplace, all partners worked on their respective areas. Interdisciplinary meetings were regularly held and contributed to exchange of knowledge between parties involved.
Especially fields of neuroscience, lighting, sustainability and functional greenery contributed immensely to the development of this project.
Apart from the neuroscientific input and sustainability, described thoroughly in this submission, also greenery was designed in a uniquely creative way - Arup employees learned how to clone plants and grew them themselves. Location of certain plants was decided to benefit wellbeing - purify the air and support cognitive functions.
Arup grows their own healthy food using microleaf farming (e.g. kale, turnip) and hydroponic farming (e.g. herbs, tomatoes, strawberries).
Finally, after implementation, a communication strategy was developed, linking all the parties involved and sharing values.
Impronta – neuroscience team, including physicians, environmental psychologists, architects and material experts;
QLab Laboratory of Light – natural and artificial lighting specialists;
NAS-DRA Conscious Design - functional greenery;
Zero Waste Design - sustainable and second-hand solutions, including furniture;
Concession Europe – built-in plywood furniture;
Forbis Group - general contractor;
Jerzy Lątka – paper-based solutions;
Mellow Designs - prototype of a partition wall in line with circular economy principles, designed for disassembly.
The aim was to utilise the expertise of Polish specialists and promote local solutions, showing in an open way how pioneering solutions can be implemented within a typical project budget.
Based on a process designed and coordinated by Workplace, all partners worked on their respective areas. Interdisciplinary meetings were regularly held and contributed to exchange of knowledge between parties involved.
Especially fields of neuroscience, lighting, sustainability and functional greenery contributed immensely to the development of this project.
Apart from the neuroscientific input and sustainability, described thoroughly in this submission, also greenery was designed in a uniquely creative way - Arup employees learned how to clone plants and grew them themselves. Location of certain plants was decided to benefit wellbeing - purify the air and support cognitive functions.
Arup grows their own healthy food using microleaf farming (e.g. kale, turnip) and hydroponic farming (e.g. herbs, tomatoes, strawberries).
Finally, after implementation, a communication strategy was developed, linking all the parties involved and sharing values.
Methodology used
The project was interdisciplinary and co-creative, using among others elements of the design thinking methodology and the double-diamond design process.
The process consisted of research and design phases.
The research phase was aimed at finding out about user needs. Research interviews and workshops were used here. The workshops were used for co-creation - future user personae and scenarios for the future users' use of the space were created.
Impronta's neuroscience team was also involved at this stage.
Subsequently, a broader team of experts (including Impronta - neuroscience, QLab Laboratory of Light - lighting, NAS-DRA Conscious Design - functional greenery, Zero Waste Design - sustainable solutions and second-circuit furnishings, Concession Europe - furniture build-outs, Forbis Group - general contractor, Jerzy Lątka - paper elements, Mellow Designs - prototype of a partition wall in line with the circular economy) was included in the design stage. Based on a process designed and coordinated by Workplace, all partners worked on their respective areas, sharing knowledge and inspiring and coordinating each other.
Subsequently, all solutions were included in the respective design studies and then realised on site (supplemented by coordination and author supervision already on site).
Finally, after implementation, a communication strategy was developed, linking all the parties involved and sharing values.
The process consisted of research and design phases.
The research phase was aimed at finding out about user needs. Research interviews and workshops were used here. The workshops were used for co-creation - future user personae and scenarios for the future users' use of the space were created.
Impronta's neuroscience team was also involved at this stage.
Subsequently, a broader team of experts (including Impronta - neuroscience, QLab Laboratory of Light - lighting, NAS-DRA Conscious Design - functional greenery, Zero Waste Design - sustainable solutions and second-circuit furnishings, Concession Europe - furniture build-outs, Forbis Group - general contractor, Jerzy Lątka - paper elements, Mellow Designs - prototype of a partition wall in line with the circular economy) was included in the design stage. Based on a process designed and coordinated by Workplace, all partners worked on their respective areas, sharing knowledge and inspiring and coordinating each other.
Subsequently, all solutions were included in the respective design studies and then realised on site (supplemented by coordination and author supervision already on site).
Finally, after implementation, a communication strategy was developed, linking all the parties involved and sharing values.
How stakeholders are engaged
Arup Warsaw Office is a private investment, financed entirely by the investor. Decisions regarding this project were taken by the company's management at a local - national level, in consultation with the organisation's international structures.
All design decisions were made at a local level. One of the project aims was to utilise the expertise of Polish specialists and promote local solutions, showing in an open way how pioneering solutions can be implemented within a typical project budget.
This space was created thanks to courage of thought and openness towards cooperation, the results of which create a new quality on the office market.
All design decisions were made at a local level. One of the project aims was to utilise the expertise of Polish specialists and promote local solutions, showing in an open way how pioneering solutions can be implemented within a typical project budget.
This space was created thanks to courage of thought and openness towards cooperation, the results of which create a new quality on the office market.
Global challenges
commercial leases (usually five years). Very often, after this period, the new tenant of a given space demolishes the previous layout, which ends up in the landfill. It is estimated that 8.5 million tonnes of waste from office fit-outs end up in landfills worldwide each year.
It is the elephant in the room
The challenge during this project was to see to what extent it is possible to design a workspace for disassembly. To what extent it is possible to reuse elements from the previous tenant and to design the new office fit-out so that, if it is demolished in a few years' time, as many materials as possible can be reused. This included the use of recycled, second-hand and natural materials - often prototypical and experimental. Primarily (and overwhelmingly) these are locally sourced materials.
Conscious choice of new finishing materials, e.g. some of the carpets come from samples backlogged in the Workplace office, they have been given a new life. Some carpets come from deadstock. Recycled, recyclable and natural materials have also been used, e.g. in the form of flax-based bio-polymer panels, flax and hemp panels or mycelium.
90% of movable furniture is second-hand thanks to a collaboration with Zero Waste Design. The furniture from the previous office was inventoried and those that were not reused or converted into other built-ins were sold at preferential prices among Arup employees. The new furniture is second-hand or post-show. The only new furniture is made from recyclable materials.
Mellow Wall - a prototype of a partition wall developed by Polish-Danish startup Mellow Designs, in accordance with circular economy principles, designed for disassembly. The structure consists of recycled scaffolding elements, the wall panels are made of natural materials - wood, hemp concrete, compressed seaweed.
It is the elephant in the room
The challenge during this project was to see to what extent it is possible to design a workspace for disassembly. To what extent it is possible to reuse elements from the previous tenant and to design the new office fit-out so that, if it is demolished in a few years' time, as many materials as possible can be reused. This included the use of recycled, second-hand and natural materials - often prototypical and experimental. Primarily (and overwhelmingly) these are locally sourced materials.
Conscious choice of new finishing materials, e.g. some of the carpets come from samples backlogged in the Workplace office, they have been given a new life. Some carpets come from deadstock. Recycled, recyclable and natural materials have also been used, e.g. in the form of flax-based bio-polymer panels, flax and hemp panels or mycelium.
90% of movable furniture is second-hand thanks to a collaboration with Zero Waste Design. The furniture from the previous office was inventoried and those that were not reused or converted into other built-ins were sold at preferential prices among Arup employees. The new furniture is second-hand or post-show. The only new furniture is made from recyclable materials.
Mellow Wall - a prototype of a partition wall developed by Polish-Danish startup Mellow Designs, in accordance with circular economy principles, designed for disassembly. The structure consists of recycled scaffolding elements, the wall panels are made of natural materials - wood, hemp concrete, compressed seaweed.
Learning transferred to other parties
The Arup Warsaw Office project was in many ways innovative and prototypical. At the same time, it was both coordinated and documented by us so that the knowledge gathered during it could be further utilised and the experience shared widely with the market.
There are a number of areas that could be replicated or transferred to other projects. These include:
Methodology: process design, research stages, interdisciplinarity and involvement of a range of partners, knowledge sharing between them
Technologies/products: reuse of solutions, products, second cycle furniture, upcycling (e.g. spiro tube furniture), light shelves, Mellow Wall - a partition wall designed according to the principles of the circular economy, functional greenery - use of hydroponic growing, micro leaf farms in the design of working environments.
Design approach:
The 6Rs principle starts with Rethink. We believe this is the thinking that has great potential to change the previously unsustainable paradigm of workspace design and interior design in general more broadly.
Approach: designing for the health of people and the planet
The future is imperfect - perfectionism can be paralysing at the design stage. At the same time, it often generates additional costs at the implementation stage. Getting used to the fact that not all elements have to be new and perfect will directly translate into both time and resource savings and improvements for the planet.
Let's just do, let's implement by starting small.
Learnings/Mindset: let's convince clients to change their approach. Arup Warsaw Office shows that using solutions from the second loop can not only be more environmentally friendly, but at the same time cheaper for the investor.
There are a number of areas that could be replicated or transferred to other projects. These include:
Methodology: process design, research stages, interdisciplinarity and involvement of a range of partners, knowledge sharing between them
Technologies/products: reuse of solutions, products, second cycle furniture, upcycling (e.g. spiro tube furniture), light shelves, Mellow Wall - a partition wall designed according to the principles of the circular economy, functional greenery - use of hydroponic growing, micro leaf farms in the design of working environments.
Design approach:
The 6Rs principle starts with Rethink. We believe this is the thinking that has great potential to change the previously unsustainable paradigm of workspace design and interior design in general more broadly.
Approach: designing for the health of people and the planet
The future is imperfect - perfectionism can be paralysing at the design stage. At the same time, it often generates additional costs at the implementation stage. Getting used to the fact that not all elements have to be new and perfect will directly translate into both time and resource savings and improvements for the planet.
Let's just do, let's implement by starting small.
Learnings/Mindset: let's convince clients to change their approach. Arup Warsaw Office shows that using solutions from the second loop can not only be more environmentally friendly, but at the same time cheaper for the investor.
Keywords
sustainability
neuroscience
neuroinclusivity
workplace
design
