Kraaijvanger Architects
Blaak 40
3011 TA Rotterdam
The Netherlands
The exercise
The VGZ Eindhoven branch was an existing VGZ production office. The assignment was: to give a new impetus in the spirit of the interior concept, from the head office in Arnhem (already designed by Kraaijvanger). The composition of personnel and work processes in the production office is noticeable from the head office, but a large part of the VGZ staff work mobile throughout the country. For this group it was decided to start a pilot in Eindhoven, with flexible office environment and conference center, in the hope that the attraction and impulse would cause change.
The challenge to better connect the rather isolated office spaces with each other and the ground floor.
Phase 1 of the new facility for VGZ health insurer in Eindhoven was intended to create more connections between the isolated working areas and meeting functions in the building. In the office there are all kinds of non-personal work spaces, meeting places, brainstorming spots and meeting places. The floorboards have been used to stimulate more cooperation. The idea of a 'nursery', which spreads like a slick over the building.
The eye-catching patio garden is, as it were, 'carried' inside, like an oasis in the metropolitan area of the station area. A green-blue world also fits the brand identity of VGZ: a natural optimism. Cradle-to-cradle material was used for the floors; a natural palette, with a natural look. They fit the garden: lively color shades without being patterns.
This is a nice stepping stone to the second phase in which the entrance and the restaurant will be tackled and the context completed.