START-UP

A Space for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

On the grounds of the former Barker Barracks, within a forward-looking urban district, the University of Paderborn has established a center for technology transfer and entrepreneurship: the start-up campus garage 33. Its mission is to provide a platform for innovation and new ventures, offering a wide range of work and meeting spaces for up to 250 people. A total of 7,000 square meters was available, with 3,675 square meters dedicated to office use.

The interior design firm brandherm + krumrey was tasked with developing an interior that supports start-ups in their prototyping and idea-generation processes. But what type of space and atmosphere would best serve this purpose? It quickly became clear that the spirit of experimentation and unconventional thinking needed to be reflected in the interior concept. The exposed concrete architecture and partially open ceiling installations of the clearly structured and light-filled building were complemented by industrial materials such as corrugated metal panels, welded wire mesh, and steel piping.

Raw Aesthetic Meets Creative Comfort

The color blue—garage 33’s corporate color—plays a central role, appearing in various shades across built-in elements and space-defining structures throughout the building. Additional color accents in wall sections and seating niches—ideal for focused laptop work or informal meetings—appear in fresh hues of salmon red, mint green, and lemon yellow.

Warm materials such as oak wood and textiles, which complement the color scheme, create a pleasant contrast to the otherwise cool architectural language. The ground floor, home to the two main entrances, is structured by metal frameworks. The spacious entrance hall serves as a social hub, furnished with upholstered seating, benches, and lounge furniture.

Seminar and event spaces adjoin this area, along with co-working zones and various workshops for prototyping. Dedicated focus rooms and office spaces for founders are located on the first and second floors, while the third floor features a premium event area as well as additional co-working and meeting spaces.

What can architecture contribute to a well-designed workplace?

Sabine Krumrey: Functionality, lighting, acoustics, and ergonomically designed workstations enhance well-being and concentration. Good design with thoughtful details fosters identification, supports creativity, and strengthens team spirit.

To what extent should workspace design respond to individual needs?

Workplace design should be flexible enough to accommodate a wide range of needs and working styles—with dedicated spaces for communication and creativity, as well as areas for focused work and relaxation.

Which functions and/or spaces do you consider most important in a work environment?

Just as people and their tasks are diverse, so too are their requirements for a productive work setting—from technical equipment at the desk to a sense of well-being at informal meeting points.