Expandy Office Blends Industrial Charm with Vibrant Accents

Shunsuke Ohe reimagines warehouse workspace with color and efficiency

Located on the second floor of a sprawling logistics warehouse, Expandy serves as the headquarters for a company exporting products across Japan. The design draws inspiration from the raw, monotone interiors of old European and American warehouses, reflecting both the building’s industrial heritage and the global outlook of its Spanish owner. Through a collaborative process, Ohe and the client merged their cultural sensibilities to create a unique workspace that stands out in the realm of office design.

What distinguishes Expandy is its thoughtful approach to balancing the rough, inorganic warehouse theme with elements that foster a welcoming and productive environment. The louvered ceiling, finished in the client’s three signature logo colors, introduces a lively contrast to the otherwise monotone palette. Colorful potted plants are strategically placed, providing visual relief and a touch of nature, making the space more suitable for daily work while maintaining its industrial character.

The office’s layout is meticulously planned to maximize efficiency within its 115.89-square-meter footprint. Movement lines for both staff and visitors were carefully simulated, resulting in an arrangement that eliminates wasted space. A glass partition at the rear separates the president’s office, allowing for privacy without sacrificing openness or communication. This design choice enhances both the functionality and the sense of spaciousness within the office.

Material selection plays a crucial role in realizing the design vision. The ceiling combines cloth and wood, while the walls feature wood wool cement boards, cement, and cloth, and the floor is finished with PVC tiles. These materials not only reinforce the industrial motif but also address the building’s structural and insulation challenges, ensuring comfort and durability without compromising aesthetics.

Since its completion in May 2024, Expandy has revitalized the workplace atmosphere, motivating staff and leaving a positive impression on clients. The project’s success was recognized with a Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, honoring its creative ingenuity and contribution to quality of life improvements through design. As a result, Expandy stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful, cross-cultural collaboration in contemporary office environments.

Expandy demonstrates how industrial spaces can be reimagined for modern work, blending robust materials with strategic color and layout choices to create an office that is both inspiring and efficient.