Location: GSK Asia House | Size: 13,746 sqft | Client Industry: Science & Technology
The Consortium for Clinical Research and Innovation Singapore (CRIS) focuses on developing strategies for national-level clinical research and translation programmes that are under the stewardship of the Ministry of Health (MOH). CRIS’s move to GSK Asia House presented us with the opportunity to introduce a new way of working to its employees. Taking inspiration from the building’s distinct facade and strong connection to nature, we designed a space that draws in plenty of natural light, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.
We further elevated our design by synthesising the dynamic and boundary-pushing energy of clinical research. Science-related imagery, such as molecular structures and DNA strands, were translated into design elements and incorporated into the space. CRIS’s corporate colours also guided our choice of materials and furnishings. To top it off, we injected warm tones to create a sleek yet energetic look.
Armed with a keen understanding of the building’s horseshoe-shaped floorplan layout, we strategically located the front of house at the centre of the space for ease of use and accessibility, while the enclosed rooms and open-plan workstations were positioned in each adjacent wing.
Instead of the usual reception counter, visitors are greeted with a view of the communal lounge, coffee bar and work café. This view is set against the backdrop of the building’s petal-like exterior façade, creating an impactful arrival experience. Sited within the same space are configurable meeting rooms that can accommodate various individual and group needs.
In addressing CRIS’s need for a collaborative workspace, we installed open-concept workstations instead of traditional office cubicles. We also introduced the concept of “neighbourhood seating” and demarcated specific zones for individual business units. Workstations were oriented perpendicular to the window perimeter to maximise natural light coming into the office.
Each neighbourhood features enclosed meeting spaces and collaborative zones for teams to gather for structured exchanges or spontaneous discussions. The corporate logo of each business unit inspired the design features within each meeting room.
We have reimagined CRIS’s workplace as an “office of the future”, encouraging movement and flexibility that meets the needs of each person, team or task. By introducing multi-functional spaces and a balanced mix of individual and communal areas, a high-performing workplace has been created to facilitate investigation, exploration, and ideation.
1 Kim Seng Promenade
Great World City East Tower
Unit 16-04/05/06
Singapore 237994
