A collaborative effort amongst URLO studio and architects Juan Ruiz and Amelia Tapia has led to the creation of a tranquil and inviting design. Dubbed the 'Breakroom in the Orchard,' this project was commissioned by an Ecuador-based environmental consulting company that wanted to turn their outdoor space into a multifunctional break area.
The newly-built staff breakroom is located in the backyard of the property. The main challenge was to blend the original landscape and vegetation with the new staff lounge. URLO studio came up with the idea of constructing a cantilevered roof that has semi-circular openings throughout. The openings allow for the original trees to continue growing while simultaneously offering protection from the elements. The space is completed with a long dining table and a sleek kitchenette which allows for a relaxed and functional break space.
Image Credit: Diego Puente, URLO studio, designboom, designboom
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Indoor-outdoor Corporate Spaces
- Designing indoor-outdoor spaces for corporate offices can be a disruptive innovation opportunity to improve employee wellbeing.
- Biophilic Office Design
- Using biophilic design to create tranquil and inviting corporate breakrooms can be a disruptive innovation opportunity to increase employee productivity.
- Multi-functional Workspaces
- Designing multi-functional workspaces that serve as staff lounges as well as meeting areas can be a disruptive innovation opportunity to improve collaboration and creativity among employees.
Where This Applies
- Architecture
- Architects can provide disruptive innovation solutions for corporate offices by incorporating indoor-outdoor designs in their projects.
- Interior Design
- Interior designers can create biophilic office spaces, such as the 'Breakroom in the Orchard,' to promote employee wellbeing and productivity.
- Corporate Real Estate
- Corporate real estate professionals can incorporate multi-functional workspaces in their properties to attract employees and increase employee satisfaction.
