Shionogi
Shionogi is a pharmaceutical company that rents an office on the Herengracht, in Amsterdam's prestigious "Gouden Bocht." The office is located in a historic building, and its interior design is inspired by the Japanese history and background of the company, with the Godai philosophy as its foundation. The Godai represents a traditional Japanese concept of elements, similar to the four classical Greek elements: Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind, with Void being understood as a non-substantial element.
Project Case
Each room in the building is dedicated to one of the elements from the Godai philosophy. The boardroom, for example, is designed around the element of Wind, symbolizing growth, expansion, and freedom of movement. This theme is reflected in the choice of colors and materials, as well as in acoustic solutions to address the building’s existing sound issues, particularly the high reverberation time in the meeting rooms.
This sound issue was improved by the installation of wall-to-wall acoustic panels, which enhance concentration and make it easier to hear one another clearly. Each panel is aligned with one of the Godai elements, featuring modernized paintings inspired by the specific theme of each room.
”It is an experience to visit the office as well as to work in it. The tasteful fusion of timeless and modern, of Japanese and European culture, is a beautiful representation of Shionogi's core values.
Dan AtkinsVP Digital Innovation - Shionogi