Essay: Office Architecture

Office architecture has changed dramatically over the past few years, with cubicles replaced by open plan offices, and old equipment from fax machines to filing cabinets being replaced by modern technology.

New tools and new technologies have transformed the way we work and communicate such cloud-based software, video conferencing, and even email and social media. It has also eliminated the need for offices and workspaces to be set up in a specific way, with the focus nowadays on collaboration with colleagues and allowing office workers to feel comfortable and productive however they choose to work.

The impact of the Coronavirus has made it even clearer that a traditional office layout is no longer necessary, as many people were just as productive when they worked remotely from home. It’s unlikely that workplaces will fully return to normal ever again, but there is still a need for office space for a number of reasons. Social interaction with colleagues, more effective tools (technology, furniture, space), face-to-face collaboration and client meetings, for example.

How can workplaces evolve and adapt to help facilitate a combination of in-person and virtual working? Do you have an idea or something to say about office architecture? Winning entries will be featured in the next print edition of ARCHHIVE BOOKS’ ‘Office Architecture’ publication, alongside the winning entries of the design competition. Participants are invited to enter either competition separately or both together.

PRIZES

3 winning proposals and 6 honourable mentions will be selected. Bee Breeders will award a total of 1,000 € in prize money to competition winners as follows:

1st Prize - 600 €
2nd Prize - 300 €
3rd Prize - 100 €

+ 6 honourable mentions

COMPETITION SCHEDULE

Final Registration: SEPTEMBER 15 – NOVEMBER 9

Final registration deadline: NOVEMBER 9, 2021
Closing date for submission: DECEMBER 13, 2021
Announcement of the winners: FEBRUARY 22, 2022

More: architecturecompetitions.com/officearchitecture/

JURY:

Nicola Gillen, Cushman & Wakefield
Hans Toft Hornemann, Aspekt Office
Dr Juriaan van Meel, BriefBuilder
Simeon Siegel, Turett Collaborative Architects
Chiara de Rege, Chiara de Rege Interiors
Terkel Skou Steffensen, Aspekt Office

COMPETITION SCHEDULE

Final Registration: SEPTEMBER 15 – NOVEMBER 9

Final registration deadline: NOVEMBER 9, 2021
Closing date for submission: DECEMBER 13, 2021
Announcement of the winners: FEBRUARY 22, 2022

More: architecturecompetitions.com/officearchitecture/