Circular ambitions
Gispen furnished four new storeys; we brightened up the reception area and gave the pantry a complete makeover. This was done in several stages. Architect Mark Mes from BSA Wim de Bruijn developed a star-shaped floor plan with a central meeting area in the middle. Mark: "The result is a biotope of different areas: from a Scrum Room to sit-stand workstations with mobile Swoppers as chairs, and from a homely pantry with warm lighting to a dynamic meeting area with desk bikes."
It is mainly the office environment in which the circular ambitions of UWV become apparent. UWV was one of the first Gispen clients for who we refurbished and transformed old Aspa desks into 1.60 by 80cm sit-stand desks.
Versatile and dynamic furniture
We have added a subtle touch of warmth to the interior. Not only through the application of wood and warm colours, but also by adding a herringbone carpet and wall prints that reflect UWV's corporate identity. In addition, we installed Gispen SDK and Gispen CIMO planters with real plants for the purpose of purifying the air and creating a relaxing and natural ambience. Kim Lantwaart, Gispen account manager and closely involved in many UWV projects: "In order to match the rooms to the designated work method, group size or social distancing regulations, UWV opted for versatile and dynamic furniture. The furniture items on wheels are a good example of this; UWV employees can turn a Scrum room into a meeting area in the blink of an eye. The office space can even be enlarged or reduced with the use of room dividers and planters."
A warm atmosphere
The reception area has been given a warmer atmosphere with a new counter, sitting area and a large reading table. We also added a Gispen Sett CE sofa to this area; the sofa made of 95% recycled materials. The carpet designed by Studio Wae was made on the basis of residual flows.
The former pantry was only used for getting coffee. Kim: "UWV is always in need of more space for encounters and meetings, which is why we furnished this area with Gispen Sett CE sofas, Palau armchairs and Nomi Wood chairs - with removable circular upholstery - as well as soft lighting. The result is reminiscent of a lobby."
What do you think of the result?
Client Fenke: "The feedback we have received so far is very positive. The pantry is particularly popular. The new work method has truly fulfilled people's different needs. What we are seeing is that those who come to the office to work, also want to meet up with colleagues. The new pantry allows for short meetings and informal encounters. The overhauled reception area, the additional office floors and pantry are very practical and add to the atmosphere UWV had in mind."
Photography: Chris van Koeverden
