Reviving Industrial Spaces: Ego House Architects' IT Factory

Transforming an Old Industrial Building into a Modern Office Space

Driven by the essence of renovation - the restoration of an empty space and the introduction of new life through new functions - Ego House Architects embarked on the IT Factory project. The design team, consisting of Muratov Maksym, Borodaienko Tanya, and Andrianova Anna, was inspired by the challenge of preserving the existing concrete structures of the old industrial building and using them as accents in the new interior space.

The IT Factory stands out for its unique design properties. The design team introduced bright color accents to avoid monotony and uniformity of spaces, and to visually refocus attention during the operation of the premises. The office is open 24/7, and the balance of functional zones was crucial to ensure comfort. The team developed a double-height space on the second floor to accommodate enough working places while preserving room for resting zones.

The renovation of the old premises involved significant alterations of the engineering part, one of the most challenging aspects of the construction process. The new engineering networks became an additional element of the space, adding to the office's unique identity. The project spanned from September 2020 to January 2021, in Kharkiv, Ukraine.

One of the major challenges the design team faced was deciding which construction to leave as is, restore, or demolish. Some structures required complete restoration, such as the walls of the second and third floors. However, the team managed to turn these obstacles to their advantage, creating an office identity that incorporates the building's original structures and engineering systems.

The IT Factory is not just a workspace; it's designed to foster a community of different specialists. The office includes both working and resting zones to increase productivity and create a conducive environment. The transformation of the industrial building extends to its identity, with the constructions and engineering systems becoming an integral part of the interior.

The IT Factory project is a testament to Ego House Architects' innovative approach to design and architecture. The firm's ability to transform an old industrial building into a vibrant, functional, and aesthetically pleasing office space earned them the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021. This recognition is awarded to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation.