OLD SCHOOL

historical monument

For the new headquarters of the newly founded JvM/NERD creative agency Jung von Matt, it was possible to use a floor that benefits from its urban location, but above all from the historical substance of a clinker brick building in Hamburg’s Karolinenviertel. It was designed in the neo-Renaissance style by Carl Johann Christian Zimmermann, realised in 1887-89 and later deservedly listed as a historical monument. It was originally home to the Israeli Girls’ School, which pursued modern, reform pedagogical teaching methods until 1942 – in other words, a place steeped in history and with sophisticated content. The first floor now available, which measures almost 300 square metres, consisted of classrooms arranged in rows until 2012, which had been reorganised into three narrow rows of offices for municipal administrative use.

playroom

The second conversion of the floor, which was realised eight years later and is now characterised by an emphatically bright and airy interior, relaxed and expanded the floor plan for the new users. Two large offices for up to six employees each and an activity room designed as a “playroom” now face the street. There are three high tables in the central corridor, which begins with the entrance and ends with a small conference room – very practical for “arriving” and spontaneous discussions. Towards the back is another thinking space – the “Bubbel” – and two conference rooms staggered in size. Everything else needed logistically for everyday life in the workspace has been placed inside between the corridor and the rear area: the toilets and a “pantry” that connects to the large meeting room. The unusually high tabletop of his large oval table necessitates the use of stools – after all, you don’t want to create a sleepy cosiness in soft conference chairs, but rather look forward to dynamic and creative discussions.

What do you think are the key qualities of a good workplace?
Anja Richter: The interweaving of contemporary architectural principles reveals the dramatic transformation of the working world as a space for new architectural creations – even in companies like Jung von Matt. The new workplaces are no longer just places of work, but rather spaces for living. The balance between technical efficiency and a relaxed, inspiring environment is becoming the quintessence of modern office architecture.
Do you see any similarities in interior design for living and working?
In the course of the evolutionary changes in the working environment, there is a fascinating parallel to the design of living environments. Both spheres, that of living and that of working, are undergoing a transformational process in which the focus is shifting from purely functional aspects to a more intensive emphasis on human needs and experiences. The design aims to create a positive and inspiring environment that enriches the individual experience both at work and at home.
Which functional aspects do you consider to be the most important in the future development of workspaces?
A space design that encourages social interaction and community building could strengthen social connection and collaboration. Functional aspects should take a balanced approach to workspace design that harmonises efficiency, technology, human experience and social dynamics.