Confidential Global Reinsurance Company Offices – Milan
Tetris Design + Build created a forward-thinking global reinsurance head office in Milan, combining individualized spaces, Italian elegance, and a blend of materials for a modern, flexible, and environmentally responsible workspace.
Future proofing a global reinsurance head office through focusing on individualizing spaces for maximum employee comfort makes this workspace design unusually forward thinking in the current context of finding innovative solutions for hybrid work. It combines an exceptional level of detail that reflects the companies professional service to clients, with timeless Italian elegance and contemporary design style that mirrors the Gae Aulenti district – Milan’s most futuristic corner and a symbol of modern urban development.
A blend of varying spaces to work with larger teams in person, or meet online, or focus on individual work are strategically located in a floor plan which emphasizes soft curves, interconnectivity, and quiet continuity. The neutral colour palette with accents of warm timber, stone and muted dusky reds and pinks originate from the brand colours of the company. The mix of natural materials and tonalities is typical of the Japanese design culture that references the client’s heritage, combined with 1970’s Italian styling. The resulting serene, elegant workspace visually connects the different work zones and makes the sum of many options feel part of a larger, cohesive office identity. It’s a fitting tribute to the architect Gae Aulenti (after whom the location of the office in the Piazza Gae Aulenti is named) who championed functionality while never compromising aesthetic appeal. The furniture and lighting showcase proudly Italian design. Office furniture includes products from Pedrali and Frezza with signature Patricia Urquiola designed couches and chairs for Pacific creating a hospitable welcome in the reception.
Workstations have height adjustable desks and flexible seating, and office spaces have lights that can be dimmed for individual comfort. Acoustic comfort is carried through in ceiling detailing with paneling and sound absorption materials that are designed into custom shapes that match the furniture and the shape of the workspaces below. Softly tinted window frosting not only provides privacy for meeting spaces it is also used to create intimacy in the open plan communal café area while still providing access to outdoor light.
In alignment with the building’s LEED Silver certification. Low energy consumption lighting systems and eco-friendly materials demonstrate the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Biophilic elements such as vegetation, wood, and stone create an authentic connection with nature, enhancing employee well-being and reinforcing the link between the office and its surroundings.
Adaptability to ensure that the space can cater to diverse work needs and evolving team dynamics is catered for in flexible panels in the breakout area and modular meeting room. They can easily transform to accommodate current various operational modes – from impromptu brainstorming sessions to formal client meetings or video conferences while also providing opportunity for future rescaling and shaping of the workspace.
In essence, this Milan headquarters stands as a testament to innovative office design – it meets the current needs of the client and is also poised to adapt to future changes in work practices. The design acknowledges and values the individual in the space, embodies the companies global values and seamlessly integrates Italian design within its iconic modern urban setting.
Design: Tetris Design + Build
Photography: Davide Galli
