Get ready to be inspired by a unique office transformation that will challenge your perceptions of workplace design! Ater Architects has crafted a creative agency in Kyiv that feels more like a cozy apartment than a traditional office space.
Located in the heart of Kyiv's historical district, this independent creative agency, Banda, sought to break free from typical workplace aesthetics. The result? A homely, vibrant, and utterly captivating office environment.
"The clients wanted a cozy space that felt more like a large, bright apartment," explained Yulia Tkachenko, co-founder of Ater Architects. And they certainly delivered!
As you step into this second-floor office, nestled within an early 20th-century building, you're greeted by an oak-lined reception area. But here's where it gets interesting: the suspended ceiling was removed, revealing ornate plaster moulding that had to be carefully restored. It's a bold move, showcasing the beauty of the building's history.
In a delightful contrast, Ater Architects has incorporated contemporary furniture pieces, such as a sleek stainless steel desk and a minimalist disc-shaped light, creating a unique blend of old and new.
The waiting room is a playful space, featuring vintage red chairs from Dietiker and a whimsical rabbit painting by Ukrainian artist Danik Manzhos. It's a perfect example of how art and design can come together to create a unique atmosphere.
The main hall is an expansive and versatile space where staff can collaborate and meet. Anchored by a large 12-seater table surrounded by vintage plywood chairs, it's a hub of creativity. And above it all, a vibrant canvas by local artist Serhii Dekaliuk adds a pop of color.
But here's the part most people miss: the additional seating areas styled to resemble a domestic setting. Sofas, armchairs, coffee tables, floor lamps, bookshelves, and potted plants create a cozy corner, blurring the lines between work and home.
The staff dining area continues this theme, with vintage metal-framed chairs from Castelli and an abundance of greenery. Even the kitchen, with its timber cabinetry and steel breakfast island, feels more like a home kitchen than an office space.
And this is where it gets controversial... Ater Architects left test applications of white paint around the room's windows, embracing the imperfections often seen in homes. It's a bold move that adds character and a sense of authenticity.
Curtained doorways lead to two additional rooms, each containing a timber volume. One houses the office bathroom with its striking ochre-yellow surfaces and quartzite sink. The other is a private meeting room and Zoom booths with fuzzy walls, creating a unique and comfortable atmosphere.
On top of the timber volume, a restful nook padded with cloud-motif cushions is accessed via a steel ladder, offering a quiet escape. It's a perfect example of how Ater Architects has thought outside the box to create unique and functional spaces.
The formal workstations are located on the mezzanine level, providing a more traditional work environment. But even here, there's a twist: a staff workshop for "experiments and creative exploration" with an aluminum pegboard for tools and materials.
This innovative office design by Ater Architects challenges the norm and showcases the potential for creating inspiring and unique workplace environments. It's a reminder that office spaces can be so much more than just a place to work.
What do you think? Do you prefer traditional office designs, or do you find inspiration in unique and unconventional spaces like this? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
