Container Offices: A Budget-Friendly and Innovative Office Interior Design

Creating an Unforgettable Experience for Visitors and Employees

In a big hall of 4000 sqm, Belgian designers Five AM placed 13 second-hand shipping containers to create an office space for Drukta & Formail, two printing companies. The concept was to create a certain experience for every visitor/user, linking the offices between the workshop so the bosses can see their employees, and the visitors can explore the huge machinery. Three containers pop out of the building to get as much natural light as possible, both located through the existing loading docks.

Container offices have become a popular trend in the world of office interior design. They offer a unique and cost-effective solution for companies looking to create functional and stylish workspaces. One exceptional example of this trend is the container office design by Five AM for Drukta & Formail, two printing companies based in Belgium.

The main goal of this project was to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. Upon entering the container offices, visitors are amazed to find themselves inside a container, but more importantly, they are greeted with a panoramic view of the production hall. They can see and smell the printing production, creating a truly immersive experience.

Furthermore, the container offices were strategically placed to promote interaction and collaboration between employees. The design allows the bosses to have a clear view of their employees, fostering a sense of connection and teamwork. The offices also provide a space for quick meetings and discussions about printing problems, ensuring a smooth production process.

One of the standout features of this design is the use of second-hand shipping containers. Five AM aimed to create a budget-friendly office space without compromising on style and functionality. By repurposing these containers, they were able to keep the overall budget low while still delivering a unique and innovative design.

To bring the design to life, Five AM utilized various construction materials such as MDF and plywood for the interior. These materials not only helped keep the budget in check but also added a warm and cozy feeling to the space. The containers were sandblasted and given a new layer of lacquer to ensure a polished and modern look.

The container office design by Five AM is a testament to the power of creativity and resourcefulness. It showcases how a limited budget can be transformed into a remarkable and functional workspace. This project received the Bronze A' Design Award in 2013, recognizing its outstanding contribution to interior space, retail, and exhibition design.

Located in Kortrijk, Belgium, nearby an important highway, this container office design stands as a testament to the possibilities of innovative and budget-friendly office interiors. It serves as an inspiration for companies looking to create unique and engaging workspaces without breaking the bank.

Overall, the container office design by Five AM for Drukta & Formail is a shining example of how creativity, innovation, and resourcefulness can come together to create a remarkable office interior. By repurposing second-hand shipping containers and prioritizing user experience, Five AM has successfully transformed a large hall into a functional and visually stunning workspace.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: FIVE AM
Image Credits: FIVE AM
Project Team Members: Interior Architect Caluwier Olivier Interior Architect Bellens Mathieu
Project Name: Container offices
Project Client: FIVE AM


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