Unilever Homebase: A Funky and Agile Office Design

Creating a Dynamic Workspace that Reflects the Brand

Unilever, one of the largest consumer goods companies in the world, owns a vast portfolio of brands. ADP recognized the need to create a space that could reflect this diversity and inspire their staff with the brand they are working for. To achieve this, they decided to apply the activity-based working model for the new Unilever Homebase office.

The workspace concept, aptly named 'Funky Town,' enables staff to connect and collaborate in a dynamic way. One of the standout features of the office is the central hub, which houses a cafeteria surrounded by a large open discussion area on three floors. This central hub is connected by a void that makes use of natural light and brings people together.

ADP's design approach for Unilever Homebase involved reducing the number of fixed desks and increasing a variety of other work settings, such as open meeting spaces and private zones, to amplify collaboration. By embracing the activity-based working model, Unilever Homebase optimizes space and accommodates an increased headcount from 800 to 1000 employees within the same area.

The Unilever Homebase project, located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, started in August 2019 and was completed in January 2020. ADP faced the challenge of transforming an old-constructioned building into a modern workplace that embraces the agile working model. Through their creative and technical expertise, they successfully empowered staff to work better and be inspired in this new workspace.

The office design of Unilever Homebase encourages creativity and supports various activities with a variety of work settings strategically placed throughout the workplace. This design not only reflects the brand's identity but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among employees.

Unilever Homebase's innovative and inspiring design has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making the world a better place.