ROLF is the largest Mitsubishi Motors importer in Russia. After realising their need to unite several legal entities into one space, Meandre architects were invited to create a simple functional office space in a short time frame. The space as envisioned by the Client was very simple almost industrial looking with an effective workspace plan to accommodate 400+ employees.

The concept was based on the company’s core business the car industry and inspiration drawn from car repair shop interiors with some elements taken from Mitsubishi car repair guides. The building has strict requirements for all elements within 6 meters from the façade (to preserve a uniform exterior view), this limited the designer’s choice of materials, colours and light fittings. At the end however, it worked out fine with the desired concept.

The Working space was divided into three offices – one for each legal entity. The Reception area and meeting suite however are shared – this helps people to communicate and promotes informal meetings. The Common area introduces the corporate colours and the use of bespoke furniture.

The Working space organisation is rather traditional – open plan with a limited amount of individual offices and with almost no flexible space or hot seat desks due to company tradition. To balance this rather simple concept, the designers used a 45-degree pattern which is reflected on the floor, on the ceilings and in the etching of the glass partitions. Some of the individual offices introduce full-wall geometric reliefs.

The Communal canteen was deliberately designed to be a darker and cosier space. The Finishes and light fittings used support the informal feel. High cabinets introduce a Tokyo nighttime panorama UV-printed directly on cabinet doors.

Design: Meandre Architects
Photography: Ekaterina Kazinova

http://officesnapshots.com/2014/04/08/rolf-mitsubishi-importers-moscow-offices/