FREUNDSCHAFT ADVERTISING AGENCY
LOCATION:
Warsaw, Poland
CLIENT:
Mediacap SA
SIZE:
2200sm
YEAR:
2017
Warsaw, with its rich tapestry of history and modernity, has always been a city of transformation. Nestled within its evolving landscape is the office of Freundschaft Advertising Agency, a beacon of innovative interior design and architectural solutions. Spanning an expansive 2200 square meters, this space is more than just an office; it's a realm where creativity, collaboration, and innovation seamlessly intertwine.
The mandate from Freundschaft Warsaw, steered by Mediacap SA, was both lucid and ambitious. They aspired for a workspace that would challenge and reshape the conventional norms of office design. Their vision was of a fluid, adaptable environment that would catalyse collaboration and dismantle the barriers that often stifle creative momentum. With the digital age ushering in a shift from stationary workstations to the mobility of laptops, the agency saw an opportunity to reimagine the very fabric of their workspace.
Embracing this vision, KOS embarked on a journey to craft a space that would be both functional and aesthetically captivating. They recognized that for a truly collaborative environment to flourish, the vestiges of division and hierarchical structures had to be eradicated. The result? An egalitarian spatial configuration where every member, from receptionists to creative directors, shared a common ground. This horizontal layout was not just symbolic but also strategic, fostering interactions between senior and junior personnel and nurturing a culture of open dialogue and mutual respect.
Central to this design philosophy was the introduction of a meandering communal table, a physical manifestation of the agency's collaborative ethos. This table, with its sinuous form, not only served as a workspace but also carved out informal zones for brainstorming and group discussions. Complementing this were wooden pod-like structures, reminiscent of crates, offering an acoustic sanctuary for focused group tasks.
Acoustics, often an overlooked aspect in commercial interiors, took centre stage in this design narrative. Instead of resorting to generic solutions, KOS architects integrated acoustic treatments into the very architecture of the space. Wall panels, arranged in rhythmic patterns, not only mitigated sound but also added a layer of visual depth. The ceiling, treated with acoustic spray, transformed mechanical elements into abstract art forms, drawing inspiration from the neighbouring building, a relic of Poland's post-1989 architectural renaissance.
But it wasn't just about form and function. The design also embraced a vibrant palette, infusing life into support spaces like the kitchen, conference rooms, and printer areas. By eschewing doors, these areas became visual focal points, adding a dash of colour and contrast to the overall scheme.
In essence, the Freundschaft Advertising Agency office is a masterclass in how commercial interior and retail design can transcend the mundane. It stands as a testament to the power of architectural solutions that prioritize human interactions, creativity, and a sense of belonging.
TEAM
Lukasz Kos
Edyta Krawczyk
Magdalena Gorecka
Joanna Otrębska
Tomasz Ginter
PHOTOS:
Tom Kurek