This project involved the design of feature elements and custom furniture for the entrance lobby and breakout spaces of a co-working office in Shanghai. A unique pentagonal geometric pattern was developed and used as a design motif to unify these different elements.

For this project, we wanted to come up with a modern interpretation of traditional Chinese lattice designs. Exploring different geometric tessellations, we eventually developed a unique pentagonal tiling pattern through algorithmic modelling. New elements and furniture for the co-working office were then designed based on this geometric motif.

A lattice screen welded out of stainless-steel members was the main feature of the office entrance lobby. We wanted to avoid overt branding and graphics, and instead convey a sense of refinement for the office through the abstract and geometric language of the screen. Though it appears complex, the periodic pattern meant that steel members were regularly arranged. This facilitated the fabrication of the screen, and a high level of workmanship was achieved.

A furniture series was designed for the breakout spaces of the office. The sofas and side-tables can be re-arranged to fit different spaces. Sofas were wrapped with a vertical backing to provide more acoustic privacy for discussions. Details such as geometric patterns and colours were repeated throughout the series. Prototypes were built and tested to achieve the right ergonomics and perfect details.