WORKSCAPE

A Landscape of Work: Dynamic, Connected, Flexible

The new building for the Hanover-based Continental Corporation brings together 2,400 employees from corporate functions as well as the Tires and ContiTech divisions. The new work environment, designed by Ippolito Fleitz Group, spans 16,680 square meters of office space. The guiding principle behind the design was the idea of a landscape composed of diverse workplace typologies – ranging from dynamic spaces for interaction and exchange to areas for focused work and retreat.

This is combined with a carefully developed internal connectivity, exemplified by central circulation paths that run along the interior façade. These paths are framed by dark carpet zones for orientation and accompanied by a continuous cove lighting element. This lateral circulation strategy allows for a large, compact area that stretches across almost the full depth of the building. Within it sit various freestanding modules that divide the desk zones into manageable, experienceable neighborhoods. The soundproof and ventilated modular boxes come in a range of configurations, sizes, and fit-outs – from phone booths to large meeting rooms. The spacing of the individual “islands” constantly creates new and surprising sightlines, even to the outdoors.

Spaces for Belonging, Focus, and Flexibility

The paths are oriented to always lead to a destination – whether it’s a communication hotspot or a view of the natural surroundings. A custom room-within-a-room system enables the spatial concept to respond to the specific needs of different departments and teams. Instead of being arranged in serial rows, workstations are grouped into compact spatial segments called “communities.” The modular design is complemented by alcoves, seating niches, arenas, and various lounges.

The 1,650-square-meter gastronomy area – comprising restaurant and cafeterias – also received a carefully nuanced design. These are conceived as hybrid spaces, offering environments for both breaks and alternative work settings away from the desk. Options range from a high-backed booth in the restaurant to a spot at the bustling heart of the atrium. So, whether one wants to be in the middle of it all, tucked away in an alcove, or slightly shielded behind translucent slats – it’s all possible. Mobile partitions allow the space to be flexibly divided, supporting everything from daily food service to larger events. Overall, the interior design philosophy centers on adaptable spatial concepts. In short: built for the future.

What can architecture contribute to a good workplace?

Ippolito Fleitz Group: Well-designed work environments are places with a strong personality, where a company’s culture and values come to the surface. At the same time, they are spaces that allow for diverse forms of work. This fosters both a sense of belonging and participation among employees, as well as agility and innovation. The physical office thus becomes a place with meaning and purpose.

To what extent should the design of the workspace respond to individual needs?

Every company has its own unique answers to the question of how work will be done in the future. The office is only the visible part of a comprehensive transformation process. Supporting this process is just as important as the end result, and involving future users is essential. Together, the individual requirements for the new working environment are identified – from the workstation setup to the spatial offering.

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

A company’s organizational and work culture determines its individual mix of spaces for communication, collaboration, concentration, and contemplation. Former peripheral spaces like tea kitchens or cafeterias now play a key role, having become central places for communication.