Revolutionizing Workplace Design: Sberbank's Agile Office

Evolution Design's Innovative Approach to Modern Workspace

Sberbank's new office design, developed by Evolution Design, is a pilot project that introduces agile working principles into the workplace. The 24,000 m2 workspace, spread across three floors, is divided into four zones, each with its own unique spaces for concentration, communication, and creative teamwork. The heart of each floor is a central communication hub, featuring creative rooms with innovative demo zones, co-working rooms, and recreation areas.

The design navigates the large floor intuitively through different color solutions, each representing a related nature-inspired theme. This not only aids in navigation but also creates an individualized look and feel for Sberbank. Meeting rooms feature bespoke wall graphics, associated with the theme of the particular area, fostering a specific mood or ambience during meetings.

One of the unique features of this design is its flexibility. Sberbank required a space that allowed for self-organization and constant two-level interaction. The first level, the squad, is a self-organizing group of 8-10 specialists, similar to a small start-up. The second level, the tribe, unites the squads for larger projects. This structure allows for a variety of exciting zones for squads to work in and the possibility to combine them into tribes.

The realization of this design was not without challenges. The building was initially designed for apartments, with each floor divided into many fire compartments. This did not support the free flow of people and communication. It took clever floor planning and fire regulation engineering to create an office floor that felt open, easy to move around, and stimulated exchange, teamwork, and creativity.

Another challenge was sourcing furniture from Western manufacturers, which proved to be neither cost-efficient nor practical. As a result, many furniture items were custom-made by Russian companies, sourcing their materials and labor locally. The office features several bespoke pergolas, informal meeting rooms, tailor-made space dividers, and unique co-working hubs revolved around different trees.

The new office design has set the first steps towards modernizing Sberbank's workplace concept. It enables staff to perform their tasks in the most suitable work environment and establishes a brand new architectural identity for the leading financial institution in Russia and Eastern Europe. This innovative design was recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018.