the Synergist office "新語之堂"
In designing this space, the transition space was designed to embody the concept of both physical movement from one place to another, as well as a transition of psychological state. The transition space was designed so that as one walks through, for those few steps that last maybe a few seconds, one knows one is moved to a new place. In this regard, the transition space is meditative and philosophical. It is both light and profound. 

In designing a space, imparting variability signifies an accommodation of variety of actions, adds an element of fun to the space, and makes intersect roles belonging to different time frames. Imparting variability requires analysis of actions, observation of states of mind, technical solutions and aesthetic compromise. The 45-degree mirror as a variable element induces perception of what lies beyond the 90-degree angled walls of the transition space, blankets unnecessary visual exposure of the service space, and determines the impression of the overall space. 

Planned for the floor of the transition space is a stepping stone-style floor with volcanic rock filling in the spaces between the stones. As one steps forward, effortlessly, without having to adjust one’s stride, noticing the volcanic rock between the stepping stones, the low light levels cause one to concentrate on one’s own footsteps. A natural psychological transition occurs as one enters the space from outside and perceives the change in space.

When designing work spaces, buffer spaces are as important as the spaces where work is actually done. Spaces in which work can be done in a variety of modes and inspire thought in a variety of directions, yet in no way coerce the occupant to engage in action are necessary. These spaces act as a buffer somewhere along the boundary between work and the everyday. At Synergy Hall, the buffer space is the tea room. Alone, the tea room is a meditative space. Occupied by many, the same room is like a yard. 

The tea room was planned as a multi-purpose space accommodating not only function but also action, purpose, and time. In planning the tea room, variability of the space was essential. A key consideration was expandability, so that the space may accommodate not only meetings and brainstorming sessions but also lectures, seminars and other programs. The solution was found in an element of traditional Korean architecture.

“Angojigi” The Angojigi door can open up and outwards or slide along a horizontal axis. Through an interposed Angojigi doorway, the two spaces of the team room and the sample room expand into and overlap with each other, giving each space added function and fun. Lighting outside work spaces is kept to a minimum in Synergy Hall. This way, the shadows created by lights and forms have greater presence throughout the space, and it is during the hours the shadows are alive that one focuses best.