Envision a space where every corner invites collaboration, every design choice enhances well-being, and flexibility is key—this is the Woolworths Dhaka office, brought to life by architects Faisal Billah and Sudeshna S Chowdhury of Binyash.
Focusing on inclusivity, flexibility, and employee well-being, the office layout promotes a culture of collaboration, creativity, and adaptability.
With an open, barrier-free design and emphasis on natural light, the space offers both comfort and functionality, making it an ideal setting for the evolving nature of work.
At the heart of the design is an open and welcoming entrance that eliminates the traditional reception area. This unique approach fosters an immediate sense of accessibility and belonging, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency. The open layout symbolizes equality within the workplace, where hierarchy is minimized, and everyone can connect effortlessly. As employees enter the office, they are greeted by an inviting atmosphere, free from physical barriers that often divide spaces in conventional offices.
Natural light is a crucial design element that enhances the atmosphere of the office. The extensive use of large windows ensures the entire workspace is flooded with daylight, improving both mood and productivity. By integrating natural light into the office, the architects aimed to boost energy levels, enhance focus, and support overall mental health. Research has shown that exposure to natural light regulates circadian rhythms, reduces stress, and elevates well-being, making it a powerful tool for creating an energized, thriving work environment.
The design also incorporates vibrant workstation colors that play a significant role in enhancing the office’s atmosphere. These bold colors aren’t just aesthetically pleasing—they are carefully selected to stimulate focus, creativity, and motivation among employees. The dynamic color palette not only adds visual interest to the space but also helps to create a motivating environment where employees feel energized and ready to tackle tasks. This thoughtful combination of colors and natural light creates a balanced environment that supports both individual work and group collaboration.
The layout of the office is designed for flexibility and adaptability, ensuring that it can accommodate a wide range of work styles and preferences.
Workstations are not confined to fixed spaces but are flexible enough to cater to both individual tasks and group collaboration. Whether employees need a quiet space for concentration or an open area for team brainstorming, the layout allows for seamless transitions between different work environments. This modular approach ensures that the space can evolve to meet the needs of changing teams and projects, fostering creativity and innovation in the process.
Incorporating accessibility into every aspect of the design was a priority.
The office features wide circulation paths, wheelchair-friendly features, and clear signage to ensure a welcoming environment for all employees, regardless of their physical abilities. Accessibility is not just about meeting legal requirements but about creating a space that feels inclusive and accommodating for everyone. The open design, along with the careful planning of accessible features, ensures that no one feels excluded from the office environment, reinforcing the sense of belonging that is central to the workplace culture.
Privacy and quiet spaces are also thoughtfully integrated into the design. Private meeting pods are scattered throughout the office, offering small, quiet spaces for confidential discussions or focused work. These pods are acoustically designed to ensure a peaceful, distraction-free environment, providing employees with a dedicated space for individual reflection or small group meetings. The flexibility of these pods allows them to be used as needed, offering employees a choice between open, collaborative areas and more secluded spaces for concentration.
Modular collaboration zones are another standout feature of the Woolworths Dhaka office.
These zones are designed to be easily reconfigurable, allowing teams to adjust the layout based on their size or the specific needs of a project. Whether it’s a team meeting, a brainstorming session, or a collaborative workshop, the office can easily adapt to accommodate diverse working styles. This flexibility ensures that employees can work in the most effective way possible, fostering a collaborative spirit that is essential for creativity and innovation.
The design incorporates biophilic elements, with storage units featuring planter boxes that bring nature indoors. These plants enhance the office’s aesthetics, improve air quality, and promote employee well-being by reducing stress, boosting productivity, and fostering mental clarity. The calming presence of nature offers a restorative atmosphere, providing a peaceful break from the workday.
In addition to the workspaces, the office includes dedicated “Me” rooms designed to promote mental well-being and work-life balance. These quiet spaces offer employees a chance to relax, recharge, and de-stress. Prioritizing mental health, the office provides a supportive environment for both professional productivity and personal well-being. It sets a benchmark for modern, people-centric workplaces.