
ByteDance Offices – Manila
Space Matrix redesigned ByteDance’s Manila office in the Asian Century Center to create a modern, innovative workspace that blends global and local aesthetics, emphasizes flexibility, engages employees, and enhances the overall work experience.
ByteDance, one of the world’s leading technology giants, embarked on a transformative journey to relocate its Manila office to a modern, expansive site in the Asian Century Center, Bonifacio Global City. This move was not just about expansion—it was about reimagining the workplace experience, setting new benchmarks for design, functionality, and employee engagement.
Bridging Gaps in Workplace Experience
ByteDance’s previous Manila office was a relic of the past, struggling to keep up with the company’s fast-paced evolution. The outdated setup lacked energy, fluidity, and the sophistication expected from a global tech leader. Employee engagement and return-to-office rates post-pandemic were lower than desired, and the new site’s pre-existing facilities failed to meet ByteDance’s high design standards. The challenge was clear: craft a workspace that not only inspired productivity but also embodied ByteDance’s culture and vision.A Dynamic and Immersive Design Approach
Space Matrix took a bold approach to create a workplace that would serve as a beacon of innovation and engagement. The new office was not just built for function—it was designed to tell a story, blending ByteDance’s global identity with a local essence.An Optimized Layout for Flexibility and Growth: The office layout was meticulously planned to maximize space efficiency without compromising comfort. Workstations were designed with flexibility in mind, ensuring adaptability for future expansion. A mix of open and semi-private zones provided employees with varied environments to suit their work styles, from focused tasks to collaborative projects.
Social Hubs as the Heart of Engagement: Recognizing that creativity thrives in conversation, social hubs were strategically positioned at high-traffic areas such as the arrival lounge and cafeteria. These spaces were crafted as vibrant, interactive zones with cozy seating, writable walls, and digital collaboration tools—encouraging spontaneous brainstorming and casual connections.
Acoustic Enhancements for a Seamless Work Environment: A key upgrade involved refining acoustic quality. Meeting rooms were equipped with advanced soundproofing, and open areas featured suspended acoustic panels and soft furnishings to absorb noise, ensuring a balanced blend of energy and tranquility.
A Celebration of Energy and Identity
The design of ByteDance Manila’s new office is a visual and sensory delight, embodying the company’s energetic, youthful, and forward-thinking culture.Vibrant, Flowing Aesthetics: Inspired by movement and dynamism, the interiors feature undulating fluted walls, creating a sense of fluidity and excitement. Bold color accents—pops of electric blue, neon yellow, and coral—infuse the space with a vibrant, playful energy that mirrors ByteDance’s brand identity.
A Fusion of Global and Local Inspirations: The design seamlessly integrates global aesthetics with local culture. Custom murals by Filipino artists add a deeply personal touch, celebrating Manila’s heritage while aligning with ByteDance’s creative ethos. Biophilic elements, including lush greenery and natural textures, bring warmth and calmness to the high-energy workspace.
Technology with a Human Touch: While technology was kept minimal, interactive digital installations and smart lighting solutions enhance the user experience, ensuring a workspace that is not only functional but also intuitive and inspiring.
A Workplace That Sparks Engagement and Pride
The transformation of ByteDance Manila’s office was met with resounding success. Employees reported a renewed sense of pride and excitement in their work environment, leading to improved morale, productivity, and retention. The new office became more than just a workspace—it evolved into a destination that employees looked forward to visiting.
By merging cutting-edge workplace strategy with immersive design, the ByteDance Manila office now stands as a testament to how thoughtful, experience-driven environments can drive engagement, collaboration, and long-term business success.
Design: Space Matrix
Photography: courtesy of Space Matrix
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