ESI Office
This project began as an empty shop lot, a raw concrete shell with no electrical or mechanical fit-out and limited natural light reaching the depth of the plan. While perimeter glazing introduced daylight along the façade, the central zone remained dark and disconnected. The challenge was to transform this unfinished structure into a fully functional office environment while maintaining clarity, cohesion, and a contemporary aesthetic.
Existing Conditions
– Unfinished concrete shell
– No building services
– Limited daylight penetration
– Dark central floorplate
– Undefined spatial organisation
– Acoustically harsh environment
Design Response
– Retained structural concrete
– Integrated services & lighting
– Full-height glazed partitions
– Daylight drawn through plan
– Defined zoning & circulation
– Layered natural materials & planting
The design prioritised the movement of light throughout the space. Full-height internal glass partitions were introduced to define meeting rooms and private offices while allowing daylight to penetrate deep into the floorplate. This approach preserved visual continuity and ensured the central workspace remained connected to the perimeter windows, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
The existing concrete floors, walls, and ceiling were retained as a deliberate design feature, celebrating the honesty of the structure and providing a neutral foundation. Electrical and lighting systems were carefully integrated, with suspended linear lighting evenly illuminating work zones without overpowering natural light. Warm timber finishes, soft furnishings, and indoor planting were layered throughout to soften the industrial shell and enhance comfort.
The result is a bright, adaptable workplace that balances industrial clarity with human-centred warmth. By combining transparency, thoughtful zoning, and material restraint, the project transforms a once-dark shell into a connected, efficient office designed to support wellbeing, productivity, and long-term relevance.