Voyage Group Offices: A New Era in Office Design

Norihito Narutomi's Innovative Approach to Activity Based Working

The Voyage Group Offices project is a testament to the power of design in shaping the way we work. The goal of the project was to create an Activity Based Working (ABW) environment that would allow employees to adapt their working styles according to their tasks. The design was intended to be an extension of the company's culture and creed, allowing employees to feel connected to the Voyage Group's ethos no matter where they were in the office.

What sets the Voyage Group Offices apart is its commitment to improving culture fit and employee engagement. The design is a sophisticated space that embodies the company's vision. By consolidating three offices into one location, the design promotes a virtuous circle, aiming to improve productivity and foster a strong culture.

The design process focused on three key aspects: materials, lighting, and layout. These elements were carefully considered to create an environment that could switch between 'on' and 'off' modes depending on the work scene. The use of art and materials was intended to inspire employees and generate interest. The company's vision and creed were embodied throughout the space, creating a tangible representation of the company's ethos.

The office covers 5000 square meters across three floors, with three-fifths of the floor area being variable. This flexible design allows the office to adapt to changing circumstances, a crucial feature for the ever-evolving IT industry. The design is a broad-spectrum Business Continuity Plan (BCP) measure, capable of responding quickly to any situation, from simple layout changes to large-scale events.

The design faced several challenges, including the consolidation of offices, promoting in-house communication, and introducing the company's culture to employees. However, through careful planning and innovative design, these challenges were overcome. The result is an office space that communicates the company's culture to its employees and allows them to express that culture to the outside world.

The Voyage Group Offices project was awarded the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The Voyage Group Offices is a shining example of this, showcasing a remarkable level of excellence and introducing positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.