A Sheltered, Green Workplace That Encourages Connection
For Explorius Real Estate Development, Studio Alliance member Ditt Officemakers delivered a workplace environment in which identity, spatial character and user experience are closely aligned. Located within the industrial setting of the Onderdelenloods in Utrecht, the project reconciles the client’s homely values with the existing building’s robust architectural language. The result is a green, welcoming office designed to support connection, focus and a sense of security.
The Design Challenge
Explorius sought an interior that would express its core values while respecting the industrial context of the Onderdelenloods.
The brief required:
- An environment that reflects warmth and familiarity
- A design approach aligned with the building’s industrial character
- A spatial structure that supports both collaboration and concentration
Balancing these ambitions demanded careful consideration of materiality, layout and atmosphere.
Integrating Greenery as a Functional Element
Greenery plays a central role in the overall concept. Rather than serving as decorative enhancement, planting is integrated functionally within the spatial design.
The incorporation of plants:
- Contributes to a sense of calm and psychological security
- Enhances spatial quality within shared and transitional areas
- Reinforces the client’s emphasis on a welcoming and human-centred environment
Combined with natural materials and warm tones, the greenery establishes an atmosphere that feels both sheltered and inviting.
Spatial Organisation and Zoning
The office layout is structured around clearly defined zones, enabling different modes of work within a cohesive environment:
- Reception and social hub
A reception area incorporating a bar and brand identity elements serves as a central meeting point. - Atrium and circulation spaces
These areas are fully utilised as a green oasis, extending the presence of planting throughout the workplace. - Lounge and meeting zones
Positioned between informal interaction and focused work, these spaces provide flexibility and support varied working styles. - Enclosed meeting rooms
Dedicated rooms offer privacy, depth and tranquillity for concentrated work and discussions.
This zoning strategy ensures clarity of use while maintaining visual and experiential continuity across the workspace.
Outcome
The completed workplace aligns Explorius’ organisational identity with the industrial qualities of the Onderdelenloods. Through the functional integration of greenery, natural materials and defined spatial zones, the environment supports connection, focus and a sense of belonging within a cohesive and contextually responsive setting.
To find out more about Ditt, please visit: https://www.ditt.nl/