{ Idemia }
LOCATION : Singapore
DISCIPLINE : Commercial
YEAR : 2023
CLIENT : Idemia
Write Up
When tasked with redesigning the CAG office at Changi Airport, our primary goal was to create an environment that not only supports the service staff in managing systems but also embraces a modern office setup. The feedback from the staff was clear: the current office was monotonous and needed a fresh, dynamic approach.
We also focused on future-proofing the office to accommodate a growing headcount. Our design process began with a thorough understanding of the human-centric work necessities. We considered the daily routines, preferences, and needs of the staff to create a space that could evolve with the team. This approach ensures that the office remains functional and relevant as the company expands, with scalable solutions that can be adjusted to meet increasing demands.
The transformation of the CAG office at Changi Airport represents our commitment to creating a modern, flexible, and future-proof workspace. By addressing the specific needs of the service staff and integrating thoughtful design elements, we have developed an office that enhances productivity, collaboration, and overall job satisfaction. The new design not only meets the current demands of the staff but also provides a scalable solution that will continue to serve the company as it grows.
Modernity with Hot Desking
To address the feedback, we proposed a "hot desking" setup inspired by the "we work" model. This design breaks away from the traditional cubicle-style office, offering various work modes tailored to different work durations:
Short-duration, grab-and-go workstations: Recognizing that many staff members spend much of their time servicing equipment throughout the airport, these workstations allow for quick, efficient use without the need for a permanent desk.
Dedicated long-duration desks: For tasks that require more time and concentration, these desks provide a comfortable and focused environment. Staff can settle in for extended periods, ensuring they have the space and resources needed to complete larger projects.
Collaborative spaces: Designed for short-haul working sessions, these areas encourage teamwork and creativity. They provide a flexible environment where staff can come together, brainstorm, and work on projects collaboratively, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Flexible and Functional Workstations: A small percentage of the workstations were designed as open, library-type tables. These areas are intended for quick, plug-and-play use, ideal for staff who need to complete hands-on site tasks. The open tables offer a flexible workspace where employees can easily connect their devices and start working without needing to claim a permanent spot. This design caters to the diverse nature of the staff's work, ensuring that every type of task has a suitable workspace.
Formal & Private Meeting Spaces
Given the open layout of the office, we recognized the need for formal and private meeting spaces. To achieve this balance, we screened off the meeting rooms with a central pantry and copier area. This design provides the necessary privacy for focused meetings while maintaining the open, collaborative feel of the office. The central placement of the pantry and copier creates a functional hub that serves as a buffer between different work zones, helping to delineate spaces without erecting physical barriers.
Central Pantry
The central pantry was strategically placed near the meeting rooms to serve as a warm-up and cool-down area before and after meetings. This thoughtful placement encourages casual interactions and provides a space for staff to recharge. The pantry serves as the heart of the office, where employees can gather for informal conversations, coffee breaks, and light snacks. This communal area fosters a sense of community and helps to break down the barriers between different teams and departments.
Integrating Existing Facade Windows
One of the design challenges was incorporating the existing facade windows. These windows, while providing natural light and views, were irregular and didn't fit neatly into a modern office layout. To maintain coherence with the overall design, we built custom cabinetry around these bay windows. This not only solved the spatial issue but also turned the windows into a design feature, beautifying the office and framing the views outside. The cabinetry provides additional storage and aesthetic appeal, enhancing both form and function.