Well-being

Designing a “Caring & Sharing” Workspace

When planning a new workspace under the motto “Caring & Sharing,” as VBM Medizintechnik did in 2023 for its office and company restaurant in Sulz am Neckar, it likely first requires commissioning a suitable interior design firm and then determining the necessary room types and design guidelines. The goal was to accommodate and provide for 220 employees within approximately 400 square meters. Studio Komo’s design allocated 260 square meters for the dining area and 80 square meters for office space. Employees from administration, development, production, and logistics received spaces for shared coffee or lunch breaks, company meetings, and social events like public viewings or chess nights. Such interiors are filled with a company culture that supports them, which is to be appreciated. The new spaces contribute by promoting communication, networking, and exchange. The interior design adapts to the varying needs of such companies, which can change almost hourly, balancing the demand for togetherness or individual retreat. Offerings like the library with lounge are suitable for this purpose. The design includes spatially defining elements made of matte blue Fenix laminate, pocket doors that allow complete opening or closing of zones, surface and indirect lighting that complements the elements and highlights furnished niches. The company restaurant features various seating options, with a defining island zone in the rear area—a carpeted platform with a bench—that provides a calming boundary to the walkway amidst user traffic. Behind this hangs large-format art on a warm gray-painted wall. Individual niches and kitchen backsplashes were clad with Karuun—a wall serves as vertical cup storage on hooks. The color palette, emphasizing blue, reflects the corporate design of the medical technology company, combined with additional shades of this color and pleasant green and earth tones. Characteristic carpets and light wood surfaces create a welcoming atmosphere.

Functional Spaces for Collaboration and Retreat

The design of the “Caring & Sharing” workspace emphasizes flexibility and comfort. The central coffee bar serves as a hub, surrounded by diverse seating arrangements that cater to various needs. From small seating islands to an open restaurant area and the so-called arena with tiered seating, everyone can find their preferred spot. The layout encourages both collaboration and individual focus, accommodating the dynamic nature of daily work. The integration of a library and lounge area further enhances the multifunctionality of the space, offering employees a place for relaxation, reading, or informal meetings. The use of modular furniture allows for easy reconfiguration, adapting to different activities and group sizes. This thoughtful approach to design not only meets the practical needs of the employees but also fosters a sense of community and well-being within the workplace.

How much should workspace design cater to individual needs?

Rene Rauls: Very much! At Studio Komo, we even say: for workspace design, the person and user are the most important factors. In addition, an individual brand space is identity-forming and a real advantage in attracting new team members.

Which functions and/or spaces are most important to you in a workplace?

We need to provide platforms to create individual spaces for various possibilities. If everyone can do their individual office work from home, then spaces need to offer additional value. Therefore, we like to call office environments: Sharing & Caring Spaces. Sharing, because the focus is on communication areas, and Caring, because the employer can show that they care, along with an attractive brand space.

Which materials do you recommend to your clients in construction or interior design?

Those that serve multiple functions. For example, curtains in the office: They meet comfort requirements, which is a big office trend right now. In addition, they improve room acoustics and can be used for shading or for simple and individual partitioning of areas. Those who don’t like plush fabrics can opt for technical textiles, similar to the material of a cool sneaker.