Connections is a prototype designed to meet the changing needs of workspaces in a post-pandemic world. Located in a busy urban area, the project focuses on improving social interaction while maintaining user safety and comfort. This architecture prioritizes both collaboration and connection, addressing the realities of modern work life in a thoughtful way.

Spatial Strategies

The design identifies three main types of social interactions: shared social settings, face-to-face communication, and spontaneous encounters. By highlighting these interactions, Connections aims to create spaces where users can engage with one another more fully. The concept of 'physical distancing' serves as a crucial design element, reshaping how people connect in safe environments.

Compartmentalization

One effective strategy within the design is compartmentalization. The workspace is divided into distinct functional blocks, which reduces congestion in common areas. This method allows for the possibility of quarantining individual blocks when needed, making it a practical solution for various scenarios. An open ramp system connects these blocks, promoting movement throughout the space while ensuring accessibility for everyone.

Dynamic Space Utilization

The project also explores ways to expand usable space, especially by integrating outdoor areas into the workplace. This flexibility provides users with options for where they work, helping reduce the feeling of overcrowding often experienced in offices. Open circulation paths encourage spontaneous interactions and facilitate movement, which are essential to a vibrant workplace.

Architectural Innovation

The idea of 'prosthesis' is a significant theme in the design, symbolized by a double façade system that allows the building to adapt to different situations. Key features, such as folded glazing and unleached slabs, enable the workspace to shift from open to enclosed settings according to user needs. This approach ensures that the environment is responsive, catering to both individual tasks and collective activities.

The layout includes thoughtful circulation and clear sightlines, creating an interconnected atmosphere. This design fosters a sense of community and ensures that the space serves both practical and social purposes, reflecting a modern understanding of the workplace.