Challenge to design an energetic physical workplace that tells the rich history of an organization with resonating changes in different generations of leadership, employees as well as the local community.
Starting in 2016, B+H worked with Zhenshi Group to develop an interior design scheme for its new headquarters in Tongxiang, Zhejiang Province. The new headquarter building is not only a statement; it symbolized the great accomplishment achieved over the past 50 years. This redesign project is brand rebuilding, and a celebration gift from the company founder to the son; representing the successor of the company transfer the leadership to the next.
The new corporate headquarter is a high-end workplace that offers a range of facilities to support a productive working environment and spark creativity. A single coherent design gesture flows from the exterior into the interior with a refined modern touch, demonstrating this company embraces a sense of community.
The interior design revolves the concept of sailing. The founder represents the old generation of leadership, is likened to a classic yacht. At the same time, the son is young and energetic, like a speed boat. This concept inspired by the characteristics of both the classic yacht and contemporary speedboat. We envisioned an environment in which all members to cooperate, to contribute in their way and be prepared for any situations at work to utilize the latest technologies to navigate the global market in the manner of a boat crew onto the open sea.
The mood created by this design concept is that of a time when a few adventurous men navigate to the ocean to explore new countries and treasures. The design of the executive lounge thus takes on a figurative meaning that charts the journey that every manager makes in their daily routine: teambuilding, decision making, and exposing themselves to potential risks. In the end, they can navigate the boat into a safe harbour and enjoy a well-deserved rest. The executive office embodies a timeless design while making a statement of efficiency and innovation. The boat control room is a place where decisions are made, and the route is defined.
The spatial design at the lobby incorporates a welcoming lounge space with modernity, utilizing elements one would find on a luxury yacht. The use of premium wood materials melds with the shades and tones of a contemporary sailing boat, creating the lightness of a sail in the wind. An elegant colour palette enhances the smooth surfaces, reflections, and subtle textures. Soft curves not only encourage the visual sensations but also modulate the speed in navigating the space, all going back to the elements of a beautiful boat cruising on the sea.
Our designers worked closely with the client to create a flexible and casual workspace environment within the building that reflects Zhenshi’s company culture of caring and commitment to its staff. Other facilities include staff gyms, a swimming pool, and a multi-functional hall that could turn into a full basketball court.
PROJECT DATA
Project Title
Zhenshi Headquarters
Location
Tongxiang, Zhejiang Province, China
Completion Date
2018
Site Area
33,000 square metres
Gross Floor Area
65,000 square metres (GFA); 33,000 square metres (interior design area)
Building Height
170 metres
Client/Owner
Zhenshi Group
Authorized Person
Jecy Huang
Executive Architect Hangzhou Architectural Design and Research Institute Co.. Ltd
Design Architect
GN international Group
Interior Design Firm
B+H Architects
Principal Designer
Simone Casati
Civil & Structural Engineer
Jianxue (Shanghai) Architectural and Engineering Design Institute Co., Ltd
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer
Jianxue (Shanghai) Architectural and Engineering Design Institute Co., Ltd
Lighting Consultant
Zumtobel
Landscape Architect
GN international Group
Main Contractor
Jujian Construction Group
Interior Fit-Out Contractor
Guangtian Group
Images
B+H Architects
(Photographer: Hu Yijie)
