Redefining Workspaces: Where Innovation Meets Sustainability
A Vision for Conscious Design: The Genesis of the Project
In a serene corner of Shoreditch, East London, the architecture communications firm SALT has unveiled its new headquarters, a testament to forward-thinking design principles brought to life by THISS Studio. The core directive for this transformation was clear: integrate as many reclaimed and recycled elements as possible, creating a dynamic environment that seamlessly adapts to diverse needs.
The Art of Resourceful Transformation: Furniture from Found Objects
The design journey began with a commitment to salvaging and rehousing materials, giving new life to items that would otherwise be discarded. Central to the office's aesthetic are the grand tables, ingeniously fabricated from vintage steel catering units. Their legs were expertly modified and fitted with casters, enhancing mobility. The tabletops themselves are a marvel of circular economy, crafted from cork remnants and American oak trimmings, saved from becoming landfill waste.
Flexible Spaces for a Dynamic Workforce: The Curtained Zones
Gone are the days of rigid, fixed meeting rooms. This innovative office embraces fluidity with a massive linen curtain, a creation by London-based textile artist Georgia Bosson. Sourced from end-of-roll fabric from an Irish mill, this curtain offers an adaptable solution, allowing for the effortless transformation of open areas into private meeting zones or even a photography studio. This approach embodies versatility and efficiency in space utilization.
Curated Aesthetics: Blending History with Modernity
Beyond the bespoke pieces, the office features thoughtfully selected pre-owned furniture, including a striking bookcase with a past life in a butcher's shop, acquired through Gumtree. A vibrant touch of color is introduced through rust-toned paint by eco-conscious brand Bleo, applied to the structural columns and beams. In a tribute to the building’s heritage, the original floorboards have been carefully restored and finished with a subtle matte varnish.
Collaboration and Creativity: The Pillars of This Sustainable Project
Tamsin Hanke, Director at THISS Studio, highlighted the project's success as a direct result of a shared dedication to minimizing reliance on new materials. She noted that perceived limitations actually became catalysts for inventive solutions, fostering a collaborative spirit that propelled the design forward. Celeste Bolte, Founding Director at SALT, reinforced this sentiment, emphasizing that the new space serves not just their team, but the wider community, fostering connection and creativity.