The unique design of myhive

The unique design of myhive

For our special edition of the Immobilien Magazin we interviewed our head architect Katharina Fröch to tell us something about the unique design of the myhive interior.

How did the myhive concept arise?

Katharina Fröch: When I arrived for preliminary talks about a future cooperation with IMMOFINANZ at the Twin Towers in Vienna, I noticed the somewhat austere and sober office reception surroundings, with a security man at the information desk. That was basically the start of a very good cooperation. The objective was to redesign the public spaces in existing IMMOFINANZ buildings in such a manner that people liked to spend some time there, and could communicate with each other. The heart of the design concept is the open and friendly lobby, which recalls a hotel lobby. These pleasant surroundings should bring a smile to tenants’ faces on the one hand, and on the other hand ensure a positive first impression for visitors. Due to the increasingly fluid transition between work and leisure time, it was particularly important to us to create a cosy atmosphere for both worlds.

myhive was rolled out to several existing office buildings. What were the important considerations?

Fröch: All kinds of different spatial situations could be found in the existing buildings. The task was also to integrate the existing substance as much as possible into the new design. We therefore developed our idea as an “add-on” concept, in order to also give the local planners the possibility to consider the actual situation on site. An important part of the conceptare the “signature elements”, which draw on archetypes
of hotel architecture and underline the presentation as an umbrella brand. Another important aspect are the people who are always present as a graphic element, such as on a backlit wall or wallpaper. The best feedback I have received to date came during a myhive event with tenants and their employees. They said that when you enter a myhive office building, it feels like checking onto a hotel. And ultimately that was what we aimed to achieve with myhive.

What is characteristic for a hotel atmosphere, or can you give us some examples of these “signature elements”?

Fröch: The main characteristic of a hotel is its pleasant and homely atmosphere. And there is a concierge to answer questions and fulfil wishes. This docking point is very important. Other typical features include a comfy lounge where one can meet and chat. I carried out research in several office buildings, and looked at their lobbies. In general they were dominated by black leather armchairs and dark stone floors. It was neither homely nor cosy, but simply conveyed that typical austere office atmosphere. Our signature elements are aimed at supporting different communication situations with furniture modules that we have created specially. The low welcome desk, with the oversized floor lamp is located beside a desk. This combination, together with the backlit wall and the integrated TV screen forms the heart of every lobby. The seating area, with a sofa, comfortable armchairs and tables invites people to relax and chat. The area with the high-backed chairs provides a pleasant and private atmosphere in smaller lobbies, and is also ideally suited – acoustically – for telephone calls. The high workgroup area with a shaded lamp provides a secluded space, especially in two-storey lobbies. This area also has charging points for phones and tablets. The milled grooves mean that these devices can be placed in a pleasant reading position. Items such as hobbyhorses and bicycle chairs were also integrated into the design concept. These remain in the memories of visitors and tenants as alternative seating options. And yes, they are also used by adults.

What was important when considered the materials to be used?
Fröch: We conducted comprehensive research on the relevant shapes and colours, in order to get a harmonious overall image. This also includes searching for suitable furniture manufacturers in several countries, e.g. Denmark, Italy, Spain, etc. And of course we paid particular attention to high quality. That took some time, naturally, but after all this overall image – the harmony between different pieces of furniture – is also a trademark of the concept.