FACEUP Offices – Kolkata
FACEUP in Kolkata, India by Spaces and Design showcases innovative office design using raw plywood as a central element, emphasizing sustainability, functionality, and creativity for a comfortable and inspiring workspace.
FACEUP is a groundbreaking office space project located in Kolkata, India, that serves as the head office for a promoter group, embodying innovation, sustainability, and creativity. Led by Principal Architect Pooja Bihani and her design team at Spaces & Design, the project redefines traditional office design by incorporating raw plywood as a central design element.
The client wanted an office space that reflected their ethos of innovation and sustainability while providing a comfortable and inspiring environment for the team. Although the client did not specify it, the design team envisioned utilizing old materials in new applications as an interpretation of the directive to emphasize sustainability and innovation.
The design concept for FACEUP revolves around the innovative use of plywood as the primary material. The raw surface of plywood serves as the foundation for the design, adding warmth, texture, and authenticity to the space. Complementary elements such as neutral colours, earthy tones, and bespoke furniture pieces enhance the natural beauty of plywood while creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. The design concept emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and creativity, with a focus on providing a comfortable and inspiring workspace for the client’s team.
The spatial configuration is carefully planned to maximize functionality, promote collaboration, and create a comfortable work environment. The office features an open-plan layout with flexible work zones, allowing employees to choose between individual workstations, collaborative areas, or informal meeting spaces based on their needs. Natural light floods the space, enhancing the overall ambiance and promoting employee well-being. Sustainable design principles are integrated throughout, with recycled materials and energy-efficient lighting fixtures contributing to a healthier and more environmentally friendly workspace.
Construction techniques for FACEUP involve precision and innovation to accommodate the unique challenges posed by the use of raw plywood. Extra steel supports are added inside partitions to reinforce them and prevent bending or warping over time. Bespoke furniture pieces are crafted onsite to complement the plywood and enhance the overall functionality and aesthetics of the space. Recycled materials are used where possible to minimise environmental impact and promote sustainability. Energy-efficient lighting fixtures are installed throughout the space, reducing energy consumption and creating a healthier work environment.
FACEUP represents a bold and innovative approach to office design, redefining traditional concepts and materials to create a space that is both sustainable and inspiring. By showcasing the raw surface of plywood and incorporating it as a central design element, the project demonstrates how traditional materials can be reimagined in contemporary contexts to create spaces that are both environmentally conscious and aesthetically pleasing. Through careful planning, collaboration, and attention to detail, the project showcases the power of design to transform environments and inspire creativity. FACEUP serves as a testament to the potential of sustainable design practices and the importance of thoughtful material selection in creating meaningful workspaces for collaboration and innovation.
Design: Spaces and Design
Design Team: Rakesh Banik, Samrat Roy
Principal Architect: Pooja Bihani
Photography: Suryan and Dang
