DHL Red and Yellow: A Dynamic and Colorful Office Design

Unifying Workspaces and Reflecting the Brand's Spirit

The design scheme for this project focused on creating a well-being environment and finding a way to unite the various departments. Starting from small details, such as using the same design language throughout, helped foster a sense of belonging. At the working stations, a carved red partition reminiscent of containers, mixed with the brand's graphic language and yellow PET panels, creates a dynamic and visually striking atmosphere.

What sets this design apart is its realization of a young, dynamic, and colorful space that still exudes elegance and cleanliness. The inspiration for the open space working station came from Neoplasticism, a theory formulated by Mondrian. This theory advocates for composition with right angles, balanced lines, and primary colors. By combining a black metal right angle structure with yellow PET panels, boxes, and white boards in the main partition, as well as incorporating a black aluminum fence mixed with red color wood carved panels at the edges, the design successfully assimilates this concept.

Functionality was a key consideration in the design, with a focus on team-work and solving acoustic problems in the space. The use of PET panels in all workspaces created uniformity, while also serving as branded wall cladding in DHL's signature red and yellow colors and graphic language. This unifying design sequence extends into the public spaces, creating an office that is all about uniformity and cohesion.

The project, which began in March 2020 and concluded in July 2021, presented unique challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Designing and planning a 7000 sqm space remotely via Zoom meetings was a significant hurdle. However, the design was approved through virtual meetings, and a 3D model was created to illustrate the space. Dealing with production line changes, safety measures such as social distancing and masks, and unexpected obstacles was all part of the process, but the team overcame them with determination and a positive attitude.

The DHL Red and Yellow office design is a testament to the brand's spirit and identity. From the vibrant working stations inspired by Neoplasticism to the red and yellow boxes used as phone booths and coffee dots, the design captures the essence of DHL in a young, dynamic, and colorful way. This project was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2022, recognizing its well-designed, practical, and innovative approach that meets professional and industrial requirements.