Studio Sklim's Verdant Spine Office: A Biophilic Masterpiece

Blending Nature and Work in a Unique Office Environment

At the heart of the Verdant Spine Office is a verdant spine that anchors the spatial organisation. This linear architectural datum incorporates storage, shelving, a printing station, a meeting niche, and an overhanging spine of flora. The aesthetics of the greenery draw inspiration from the tropical rainforest and were intentionally designed to be on the wild side, reflective of the flora in this region.

The office design considers the specific needs of this profession and provides a level of privacy without sacrificing open communication. Both individual offices and work cubicles are included in the design. While green walls are all the rage, especially in Singapore, the architects have introduced their own take on 'junglefication' by envisioning a tropical jungle setting for the flora pockets. The placement of these pockets was strategic, adhering to 'Feng Shui' principles - a traditional method of space organisation practised in Chinese communities.

The elements of craft are evident in this project. The meeting table, working cubicles/desks for the staff/director, and even the door handles have been customised so they coordinate with the overall visual branding of the office. The 'landform' aspect of the design takes on a rough textured stucco finish while the architectural components are addressed in the rattan canopy structure of the meeting room and mini-privacy canopies for the work cubicles.

The project started in October 2018 in Singapore and was completed in January 2019. The challenge in this project was the tight 1-month production time on site. The main carpentry and works were done in Singapore, but the rattan was fabricated in Johor, Malaysia, and the furniture metal works were fabricated in Kedah, Malaysia. Organisation of these different trades in different locations had to be timely to avoid any loss of waiting time.

The Verdant Spine Office was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2019. The award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, the Verdant Spine Office by Studio Sklim is a testament to the power of biophilic design and the possibilities it offers for creating a balanced, visually pleasing work environment. It stands as a shining example of how design can merge the natural world with the built environment, creating spaces that are not only functional but also deeply connected to nature.