For UBER’s latest office in Hong Kong, Bean Buro looks at Gottfried Semper’s writings about vessels in which he describes the notion of form and function as a structured whole. In other words, the writer explores how individual parts fulfill their own function while cooperating with others to achieve an overall purpose.

The 830 sq.m workplace, on the top floor of an existing office building, clearly manifests volumes and functions.
In fact, Bean Buro‘s interpretations of the city waterfront topography and curvy mountains produce a voluptuous dark blue vessel that contains meeting rooms, service areas and private working booths.

But most importantly, the space is designed humanly to connect people, thus reflecting the company’s ethos. As a result, the heart of the workplace is a café pantry created for large social events, independent working activities and informal meetings.

It includes a collaborative bar island, stage seating, and a twenty meter long signature “bean” table with integrated cushioned seats facing the city’s racecourse and sports grounds. Referencing the local urban life, the reception introduces vibrantly colored tiled walls and floors — contrasted with handcrafted neon signage — while a padded felt wrapped reception desk is reminiscent of luxurious car seating.

An intricate wall art by local artist Bao Ho envisions a floating city vessel, packed with Hong Kong’s landmarks, futuristic transports and lucky feng shui symbols. Staff is in turn encouraged to express themselves creatively through writable walls and columns.

Design: Bean Buro

http://www.designboom.com/architecture/bean-buro-uber-office-hong-kong-01-06-2017/