Academy: A Multidisciplinary Office Space Inspired by Education

An Ergonomic and Educational Design by Ruba Tarazi

Academy stands out with its ergonomic yet educational and inspiring setting, serving as both a workspace and a venue for company events. The entrance is adorned with a hexagonal lighting fixture, symbolizing the chemistry background of the company. Glass partitions filled with gelatin capsules provide privacy while adding an elegant charm to the offices.

To create an educational-friendly atmosphere, Tarazi introduced casual seating areas, a cafe, and meeting rooms adorned with graphics that narrate the company's story. Multimedia interactive screens, a library, and information diagrams further enhance the learning experience within the space.

The design of Academy showcases the fusion of natural elements and industrial aesthetics. The floating hexagonal formation of solid wooden frames and lights, along with the exposed metallic ventilation system at the entrance, represents the industrial pharmaceutical business of the company. Warm natural wood, leather seats, glass partitions, and textile curtains create a genuine and inviting ambiance. The dark blue walls and featured doors symbolize knowledge and learning.

The project spans a total area of 650 square meters, divided into three equal floors of 216.6 square meters each. It was completed in October 2018 in Amman, Jordan, after a five-month construction period.

Academy was designed after extensive research into the needs of the employees, ensuring that the space caters to their growth and fosters an ethical culture. The selection of quotes and posters representing each meeting room as a branch of the company across the world adds a touch of inspiration. The glass partitions filled with gelatin capsules not only provide privacy but also serve as an elegant representation of the pharmaceutical industry.

The design process faced challenges due to a tight deadline that coincided with the company's rebranding activities. However, Tarazi and her team successfully customized many items on-site to meet the project's requirements. The construction of the glass partitions with capsules also presented a technical challenge, but the team overcame it to produce consistent and aesthetically pleasing partitions.

Academy offers a dynamic space that allows employees to experience new concepts of work in a positive and creative atmosphere. The variety of working setups, including benches, high desks, traditional desks, and casual seating areas, along with interactive screens, encourage productivity and creativity. The space is also used for events, seminars, and training sessions.

Academy's innovative design and commitment to creating a conducive work environment have been recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledges well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Academy's design integrates industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, contributing to a better world.