Esk Space: A Mirrored Office Oasis in Hangzhou

Leo Chen's Award-Winning Design Merges Function with Fantasy

At the heart of Hangzhou's Binjiang District, the 27th floor of the Wisdom Gate has been transformed into a visionary office space known as Esk Space. The design, conceptualized by the acclaimed Leo Chen, draws inspiration from the mind-bending visuals of the film "Inception." Chen's use of reflective surfaces and a variety of materials creates a continuum from private to public spaces, inviting visitors into a world where architecture and art coalesce.

The entrance sets the stage with its transparent, floor-to-ceiling glass, offering expansive views of Hangzhou's landscape. A sunken reception area forms the central hub, seamlessly connected to the entrance elevation. This innovative design approach ensures that each space within Esk Space serves its purpose while maintaining an air of mystery and intrigue, encouraging exploration and discovery.

Esk Space's unique properties lie in its division into three distinct areas, each tailored to specific interactions. The visitor's core area is defined by a blend of soft and hard separations, including a front hall, leisure water bar area, reception zone, and an indoor scenic spot. Strategic use of negative space crafts a natural transition between areas, enhancing the spatial experience and sparking curiosity.

The realization of Esk Space is a testament to advanced design techniques. Large mirror ceilings blur the boundaries between solidity and illusion, while the interplay of indoor and outdoor elements is accentuated by luxurious materials such as stone, wood, and stainless steel. These choices not only reflect the space's texture but also its ambition to redefine the office landscape.

Spanning 420 square meters, Esk Space is a product of meticulous planning and execution. The design process began with extensive research and understanding of the required design, function, and style. This led to careful plane planning, style development, and the positioning of soft installations. The result is a space that presents itself differently by day and night, with natural lighting complemented by strategic indoor light sources to create a captivating indoor atmosphere.

One of the major challenges in creating Esk Space was the division of functional areas without compromising the sense of openness and fluidity. Chen overcame this by employing techniques such as interpenetration, dislocation, and layering, which not only divide the space but also enhance its three-dimensionality and coherence. The interspersed design allows for a flexible layout, providing a variety of functional possibilities and improving spatial dynamics.

Esk Space is not just an office; it's a destination that offers an immersive experience, where visitors can engage in meaningful interactions within a space that feels like an extension of home. The design's success is reflected in its Silver A' Design Award, recognizing Chen's ability to blend technical prowess with artistic finesse. The office space stands as a beacon of innovation, inviting occupants to step into a world where every corner offers a new perspective, both literally and metaphorically.

Image credits for Esk Space go to the talented photographers HAMOVISION and YE SONG, who captured the essence of the design in 2023. Their work has contributed significantly to the project's acclaim and serves as a visual testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design.