Sarnova Offices – Dublin
MA Design’s Sarnova offices in Dublin transforms an outdated structure into a dynamic, sustainable workplace that fosters innovation and wellness through thoughtful design and seamless connectivity.
A dynamic workplace where innovation, wellness, and collaboration thrive
Sarnova’s new headquarters transformed an outdated 1980s office building into a modern workplace that reflects the company’s active, forward-thinking culture. As a national leader in emergency medical services and acute care for nearly 50 years, Sarnova needed more than a new home; they needed a workplace that could elevate the organization’s brand image while providing practical, functional, and adaptable spaces that meet the diverse needs of their employees and their guests.
At the heart of the design concept is connection, expressed in the seamless flow between exterior and interior, a dramatic entry sequence, a completely rebuilt grand stair, and a central sight line running the length of the building. To achieve this transformation, the front facade was expanded and the interior nearly gutted. Employee well-being, and a sense of “feeling at home,” is reflected in the welcoming first impression, and elements such as the inviting front patio flanked by two high-volume wood pergolas. The new facade makes a dramatic statement through its thoughtful use of scale, materiality, and lighting, while a two-story glass reception area blurs the line between inside and out, creating a unified environment. Drawing inspiration from the local landscape, the design incorporates layered textures and rich materials to achieve a refined balance between modern and industrial style.
Sustainability and occupant wellness were central to the project. Our design team worked closely with an in-house sustainability team and multiple consultants to bring Sarnova’s vision of a sustainable workplace to life. Improvements to the building’s core and shell, as well as a multitude of interior strategies, were incorporated. Wellness is further supported through a layered amenity strategy including an expansive café and back-of-house kitchen, coffee bars on each floor, treadmill rooms, individual restrooms and showers, and mothers’/respite rooms. Beyond the walls, three outdoor patios and a walking path extend the culture of wellbeing into the landscape.
To foster a connected workplace, engagement across the three-story floor plate was enhanced through a balance of open offices, flexible support spaces, and dedicated collaboration zones. Executive offices were strategically positioned at the corners of the building to keep leaders close to their teams. Meanwhile, other offices were centralized to the building’s core to prioritize natural light and employee wellness at workstations. Conference rooms were sized with growth in mind, designed to flex into office space as needed, and equipped with advanced technology, thus supporting the demands of an ever-evolving workplace.
By seamlessly blending functionality, sustainability, and thoughtful, connective design, the new headquarters stands as a bold statement of Sarnova’s vision. One that supports its people, inspires innovation and collaboration, and elevates the everyday work experience.
Design: MA Design
Contractor: The Daimler Group
Photography: Kate Horgan
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