Kinzo Architekten has reimagined the Berlin offices of Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. The project saw the studio transforming three floors of the Kollhoff Tower at Potsdamer Platz into a workspace that blends sophistication with residential comfort.
Kinzo Architekten's design approach deviates from traditional corporate aesthetics, instead embracing the warmth and character of a New York-style apartment. By prioritizing communal spaces over hierarchical office structures, the layout fosters collaboration, with former executive corner offices repurposed into inviting meeting lounges and cafeterias. Additionally, the integration of a 'hotelling concept' — where employees reserve well-appointed, acoustically optimized workspaces — reflects evolving trends in flexible, activity-based working
The project revitalizes 2,860 square meters of previously worn-out office space, aligning it with modern workplace demands while preserving the architectural integrity of Hans Kollhoff’s 1990s tower, which draws inspiration from classic Manhattan skyscrapers.
Warm Office Interiors
Kinzo Architekten Reimagines the Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer Offices
Trend Themes
1. Residential-inspired Office Design - Emulating the comfort and style of New York apartments, office interiors are shifting from corporate rigidity to homely warmth and sophistication.
2. Hotelling Office Concepts - Flexible workspace reservations are becoming popular, allowing employees to choose acoustically optimized environments suited to their tasks, reflecting the shift towards activity-based working.
3. Collaborative Space Transformation - Traditional executive offices are being transformed into communal meeting lounges, prioritizing collaboration and connection over hierarchical structures.
Industry Implications
1. Interior Design - The interior design industry is experiencing a surge in demand for residential-style office transformations, merging comfort with functionality.
2. Commercial Real Estate - Commercial real estate is adapting to new trends by refurbishing outdated office spaces to meet modern collaborative and flexible work needs.
3. Office Furniture Manufacturing - Manufacturers in the office furniture sector are innovating to produce acoustically optimized and flexible furnishings that support new hotelling concepts.