Artek’s new Head Office is situated within the 4th floor of a converted 19th Century apartment building. Originally a space that featured a series of small rooms connected via dark, long corridors, these spaces were repurposed and transformed to accommodate a new working showroom for Artek and parent company Vitra, as well as workspaces for their employees. The new environment conveys 'Artek's Spirit' through it's planning and use of materials, creating a democratic environment with maximum daylight as well as an inspiring showcase of Artek and Vitra products.
The primary goal was to strip the space back to it’s bare structure in order to gain additional ceiling height and create open, light and airy environments; a blank canvas which acts as a clean backdrop for the products and the activities. With the space stripped back to it’s shell and with the introduction of various new openings, all the individual zones have become interconnected with beautiful vistas, including views to the outside. This enfilade creates a continuous perception of space and allows for easy and immediate communication between the various team spaces.
The materials & details used throughout are a subtle homage to Artek’s heritage and craftsmanship. Additionally bold curtains conceal and frame the sample library, chair display, storage, archive, lockers, write-on and pin-up boards, copy area. Improving the office acoustics through their softness, the curtains equally form a theatrical setting.