Plenty of modern offices lack a certain warmth. That's because contemporary design focuses, I think, too much on a style that could only be described as sterile. That's also why the most inspiring office I've ever been to was the exact opposite. Nice contrast of both light and dark colors, occasional flower here and there, and plenty of open space automatically made me feel at ease and calm. Such an atmosphere was truly inspiring.
I visited the Googleplex in Mountain View, California in early 2017. It was an inspiring place to be, full of innovative ideas and creative minds. The Googleplex is home to the headquarters of the world’s largest search engine and one of the most successful technology companies in the world. The Googleplex is a sprawling campus with a multitude of buildings and amenities. From the moment I stepped inside, I was awed by the sheer size of the complex. The main campus is comprised of several low-rise buildings and two large courtyards. The buildings are designed with lots of glass to let in natural light and are adorned with bright colors and artwork. The main courtyard is filled with lush gardens, colorful flowers, and a large pond. There are also plenty of places to sit and relax, providing a peaceful atmosphere. The other courtyard is home to the iconic Google logo and a large green grassy area.
Once I was assigned to assist a team of designers who were working on a project in a converted warehouse office that had been transformed into a modern, open-plan workspace. The high ceilings and skylights allowed natural light to flood in, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The walls were adorned with colorful artwork and inspirational quotes, adding to the creativity and motivation of the team. The office also had various breakout areas, including a cozy lounge and a well-stocked kitchen. These spaces encouraged socialization and collaboration, and the team would often bounce ideas off each other while enjoying a coffee or snack The office layout maximized productivity and creativity, with ample desk space, private meeting rooms, and phone booths for confidential conversations. The open-plan layout allowed for easy communication, fostering a sense of community. It was a perfect blend of function and style, and the designers felt energized and inspired by their surroundings.