Why are many offices still so sterile and corporate? Why do young creative entrepreneurs prefer to work in coffee shops? Why do creative and innovative companies like Google provide funky and interesting workplaces? Many designers and clients continue to ponder on designs for the office in the 21st century, recognising that a well-designed and stimulating office environment can make people happier and more productive.
With the opening of Second Home, designers Rohan Silva and Sam Aldenton have taken an outdated 1970’s office block in Spitalfields in East London and transformed it into a light, colourful state-of-the-art work space for entrepreneurs and creative start-up organisations, where people will want to enjoy spending time, making the most of natural light, with floor-to-ceiling windows and transparent plexiglass dividing up individual office spaces. The former warehouse is flooded with natural light and furnished with modern 20th century furniture sourced from eBay, design fairs and junk shops.
The colour scheme is bright with oranges and yellows to give a warm natural feeling, supplemented with over 1,000 plants and trees.
Refreshment is important with a cigar-shaped “bubble” cafe and bar space Jago Restaurant, run by former Ottolenghi head chef Louis Solley providing great food including braised pork belly, tomato and fennel salad, cannelini beans and lentil and chickpea pilaf.
Is the office of the future a social and enjoyable experience such as Second Home?
