Needs-oriented

Interdisciplinary Synergies and Collaboration

Interdisciplinary synergies and collaboration – two fundamental planning goals for the BSH Bosch Siemens Hausgeräte AG headquarters in Geroldswil, Switzerland, near Zurich. An innovative office concept was developed and implemented by Schmidhuber Brand Experience. The office area, located on the second, top floor, covering 1,060 square meters, was designed to follow ESG guidelines in its ecological, economic, and social orientation, emphasizing sustainability while fully embracing the New Work culture. The redesign of the headquarters followed a cohesive process – from consulting and co-creation to implementation.

With the motto “A Space to Breathe,” it was defined that the 70 users should feel comfortable in their work environment, which was also intended to motivate them to return to the office after an intense period of remote work. A healthy indoor climate and needs-oriented, inviting spatial design immediately and noticeably made an impact.

Flexible and Sustainable Work Environment

On the triangular floor, arranged around an inner courtyard, the previously fragmented spatial structure was dissolved, creating a flexible, modular work environment tailored to the needs of the employees. The building’s characteristic layout promoted the interior architectural development of a varied office landscape. From the early stages, the planners were clear that high participation during the planning process and the joint development of needs-oriented solutions would foster a successful adaptation to the new world of work. The users are at the center.

In practice, this meant modular space concepts for greater flexibility or individual work areas that foster a sense of community. Acoustic ceilings and specific lighting solutions supported comfort within the interior design. Naturally, communication zones for exchange and innovation are essential. The heart of the space is the large, light-filled kitchen, which has become a place of connection at BSH, where new products are demonstrated, recipes are tested, and successes are celebrated. Additionally, sustainable thinking and actions were a priority. Materials and furniture were selected based on ECARF criteria to be allergy-friendly. Life cycle analyses, the reuse of 60% of existing furniture, and the use of materials that are suitable for a circular economy and energy-efficient manufacturing help avoid resource waste.

What can architecture do for a good workplace?

Nicole Gietz-Haslinger: Architecture has the power to influence people’s behavior and create spaces for change and innovation. A well-designed workplace fosters openness, collaboration, and creative processes, but also provides spaces for retreat for focused work. Our goal is to create environments where people are inspired to develop new ways of thinking. Spaces have a strong impact on behavior – and our behavior determines our results. That is the key to change and progress.

How much should the design of the workspace adjust to individual needs?

The individual customization of the workspace is crucial, and one key to this is involving employees in the design process. People work differently – some are productive in open, lively environments, while others need quieter retreat spaces. When we actively involve employees in the planning, we can better understand and address their needs and wishes. The goal is to create flexible work areas that allow for both exchange and focus. A workspace is optimal when it provides room for individuality, communal interaction, and true co-creation.

What functions and/or spaces are the most important to you in a working environment?

The most important component of a modern working environment is collaborative spaces. These areas encourage exchange, collaboration, and creative processes – they are the heart of an innovative workspace. Here, teams can meet, develop ideas, and work together on projects. Other important aspects are multifunctional zones that can be adapted as needed. These offer space for spontaneous meetings, informal conversations, or even breaks to recharge. In addition, spaces for virtual collaboration have now become indispensable to maintain connections.