Samsung’s London office is a masterclass in design that prioritizes both productivity and well-being, thanks to a thoughtful collaboration between McLaren Excell and the innovative office design firm Oktra. This space, crafted to cater to the evolving needs of a hybrid workforce, combines elements of domestic comfort with high-functionality, offering a refreshing departure from the rigid, corporate feel that has long dominated office environments.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: London, United Kingdom
Architecture & Interior Design: McLaren Excell
Office Design & Build: Oktra
Photography: Lorenzo Zadri
Oktra’s design for Samsung’s office embraces flexibility and a sense of warmth, ensuring that employees feel at home in their workspace. Gone are the days of harsh grid lighting and utilitarian decor; instead, the space is bathed in warm, intimate lighting that targets specific areas, fostering a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The design’s emphasis on comfort is evident throughout, with the use of soft furnishings, plants, and tactile materials contributing to an overall feeling of serenity and ease.
At the heart of this innovative space is the concept of human-centric design, which seeks to remove the formality typically associated with traditional office environments. McLaren Excell’s approach ensures that employees aren’t just working in a functional space, but are immersed in an environment that promotes their physical and mental well-being. With an understanding that flexibility is essential in today’s work culture, the office space adapts to various work styles, making it perfect for both in-office and remote workers.
Key to this design is the lack of rigid walls, replaced by flexible partitions made of linen curtains and glue-laminated spruce. This setup not only supports the creation of private meeting rooms but also encourages collaboration and interaction among employees. The open-plan design allows the office to adapt as needed, offering employees the freedom to configure their workspace based on individual and team needs. This openness fosters a greater sense of connection, helping people feel part of a community rather than working in isolation.
The layout of the office also includes informal breakout areas and a spacious kitchen designed to encourage employees to take breaks and recharge. These areas are not just functional but are spaces where employees can interact casually, further enhancing the feeling of working in a home-like environment. In these moments, employees are invited to step away from their desks, engage with colleagues, and rejuvenate—an important feature in today’s world, where the line between work and home life has become increasingly blurred.
The tranquil atmosphere created by McLaren Excell and Oktra is more than just a design aesthetic; it’s a deliberate strategy to enhance employee satisfaction and productivity. Research has shown that a well-designed office can significantly impact an employee’s mood, engagement, and overall work performance. Samsung’s office reflects this understanding, offering an environment where employees can thrive while feeling comfortable, supported, and connected.
This project reflects the future of office design, where hybrid work arrangements and employee well-being are top priorities. As companies continue to adapt to the changing dynamics of the workplace, Samsung’s London office stands as a shining example of how thoughtful design can create a space that supports not only the work being done but the people doing it.
