Work, Meet and Dream! Designing Workplaces to Inspire Youth

WORK, MEET AND DREAM! DESIGNING WORKPLACES FOR YOUTH Singapore, 2018 Conceptualising the new premises, DP’s design goal was to create a space of possibilities where youths are able to gather, interact and participate – to be involved. The project explores how design can be used as a powerful tool to reach out to the youths of today; to influence the way they reimagine the environment and identify with place and space while nurturing values within them. These were achieved through the introduction of a distinctive modular and interactive grid furniture system that iterates with various plug-in elements. Three key design strategies were applied to realise such an open, inviting and interactive work space at Heartware Network: 1) Canvas Allowing a Sense of Ownership & Participation The design acts as a canvas for customisable spaces via tiered bleachers on wheels, loose seating and individual pedestals which can pack back into the cabinetry, enabling flexibility in the space and a spontaneous work environment. Ideation panels and spots are also freely available throughout the space, encouraging participation of the youth while allowing them to create their own identity. 2) Palette of Youthful Ambition and Energy While a neutral palette of plywood, white laminate and shades of grey is chosen for the base of the space, accent colours are incorporated, aligning with Heartware Network’s corporate colours. An additional overlay of acoustic hanging mobiles and signage also add distinctive character within the spaces. Each showcases and advocates the various ideologies that Heartware Network and their youths stand for – doves for authenticity, planes for enterprise, boats for dedication and crane for integrity. 3) Stage for Being Socially Responsible – Eco Consciousness & Smart Green and smart elements are incorporated within the space to allow for the youth to be aware of the global movement of smart and green, hence also taking ownership of their part to the environment. A feature green wall which harvests the condensate from the air conditioning (a wasted by-product of air conditioning which is unknown to most), is designed to greet anyone who enters the space. Sensors allow for smart control to switch off the lighting when not used and all electrical components are wired to be able to allow users to have satellite control of them through apps while monitoring their day-to-day energy footprint. The design of Heartware Network’s new office is a reflection of the energy of the youth today; and aims to give the youths who volunteer with the organisation an empowered voice. Design Team: DP Architects, DP Design, DP Lighting Subtext: Heartware Network, located at Ganges Avenue, is a registered charity youth organisation that reaches out to an average of 1,500 youths annually. The design of its new 350sqm office is a Community Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by DP Architects (DPA). It is also DPA’s latest foray into the design of flexible and creative workplace environment. Launched in July 2018, Heartware Network revealed a transformed office space, which showcases key ideologies of the organisation through, encouraging and empowering participation and volunteerism in youth.