Tasked to design a new build lab and office space on a disused plot within a larger site surrounded by rolling farmlands, project BioStar embodies biophilic elements and overall staff well-being at the heart of its interiors.
My role as lead interior designer, I was tasked in leading project workshops with key stakeholders, developing the design from concept through to completion, producing full working drawings for construction along with producing complete joinery drawings within tight deadlines,liaising with contractors, suppliers and steer groups and attending site and virtual meetings.
The key drivers for this scheme were to create a multitude of different spaces where users could focus, collaborate, relax and socialize with colleagues. Neurodiversity was also a key part in the design with a near perfect split of neurodivergent people within the workforce planned to occupy the building. This led the conversation on how to implement the branded Syngetna colours within the concept which ultimately were bold, bright and over stimulating. We muted the colour palette and colour blocked each floor for easy and immediate visual wayfinding along with blending neutrals throughout.
We developed the scheme by furthering our research with key users by creating different ‘personas’ for groups,which we broke down into various categories but mainly who uses the space and more importantly how. The data received was instrumental in how we sectioned areas into neighbourhoods and incorporated the workplace changes desired by the main client.
With the users profession being within the biology of plants, biophilic references are made through finishes on sustainable flooring based on nature, low VOC paints and natural fabrics where possible.