The opportunity to promote cross functional engagement, foster collaboration and provide flexible, quality spaces was a key part of the client brief when Roche consolidated space and moved their pharma division into their existing facilities in Johannesburg.
It was important that the workspace communicated the Roche culture while allowing people to feel a sense of community through reflecting local African inspiration.
Working with the concept of an African context and story telling, the theme of local environment, art and tradition was woven throughout the design of the workspace within the Roche global standards.
In reviewing the needs of the three divisions, (pharma, diagnostics and diabetes care) a range of spaces for focused work, teamwork and meetings were created.
Lounges and co-working stations are placed alongside pause areas with access to natural light and fresh air. Planters alongside open working paces provide visual and air comfort. Large informal discussion lounges interconnect to executive offices and mobile furniture and interactive digital work rooms with large touch screens promote new ways of working and connecting.
An African approach to sustainability of ‘use only what is needed’ was applied throughout the design translated as ‘plan and replace only what is needed.’ Existing furniture was refurbished and repurposed with new items locally sourced wherever possible.
