
Bayer Colombia Offices – Bogota
Contract Workplaces redesigned Bayer’s office in northern Bogotá, emphasizing flexibility and collaboration post-pandemic with a sustainable system inspired by organic chemistry, biophilic aesthetics, and inclusive design features.
Until recently, the offices of the German chemical giant Bayer in Bogotá were located in an industrial zone, far from the city’s corporate hubs. This peripheral location led the company to consider relocating to a more favorable area.
The chosen site for the new headquarters was the Torre Sapiencia building, a modern ten-story construction developed by Javeriana University. This AAA-category mixed-use building is located in a prominent area in northern Bogotá, close to public transportation systems.
To bring this relocation to life, Bayer entrusted Contract Workplaces with the development of its new office project, spanning 2,500 m² across three floors.
The spatial design was aligned with the “Next Normal Office” concept, a global strategy adopted by Bayer for its workspaces to address employees’ new demands and expectations post-pandemic: flexibility to choose when and where to work, prioritizing in-office collaboration, and providing spaces adaptable to different work styles. However, this is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it is customized locally to meet the requirements and cultural nuances of each country.
Building on this foundation, and incorporating the needs program and usage ratios provided by the client, a conceptual design was developed based on an analogy with organic chemistry, dubbed the “sustainable system.”
The design features a zigzagging longitudinal circulation inspired by molecular bonds, connecting various work areas—collaborative zones, unassigned workstations, modular meeting rooms in different formats, phone booths, copy points, a library, cafeteria, spaces for collaborative and focused work, multipurpose rooms, relaxation areas, and informal meeting spaces—catering to all needs and work styles. Unlike traditional layouts with assigned spaces, the only personal belonging employees have is a locker to store their personal items and work materials.
The project’s aesthetics and material selection reflected the concept of biophilia, with wood and brick tones predominating, echoing the building’s façade. The zigzag circulation is highlighted by wood-like vinyl flooring, emphasized by suspended ceilings and linear lighting. Changes in carpet tones help delineate different areas while adding dynamism and warmth.
Color accents were reserved for partitions, applied graphics, and hexagonal acoustic panels, evoking molecular shapes. Strategically placed indoor plants added color and vibrancy to the space.
To ensure inclusivity and enhance experiences for a broader range of employees, strategies were implemented to integrate all staff. For instance, the circulation width and access to one meeting room were designed to accommodate individuals with reduced mobility. Additionally, one floor features gender-neutral and universally accessible restrooms, catering to all people and their diverse needs.
The strategy implemented in this new office delivered a dynamic spatial flow, greater flexibility to meet new demands, and increased collaboration among employees. The result not only met Bayer’s global standards but also established a unique image and personality for the Bogotá headquarters.
Design: Contract Workplaces
Photography: Jairo Llano