Cover Wanderlust + Co's serene HQ Photo: The Space Storyteller

Even as hybrid work weeks become the norm for most economic sectors, we take a peek at offices that will inspire us to leave home for work

This story was originally published on September 9, 2021, and updated on November 2, 2022.

Has the office as we know it become obsolete? After almost two years of working from home, it's expected to have mixed feelings about returning to the office grind. Yet if working in our pajamas and endless Zoom meetings have taught us anything, it's that the office is more than just a place to work—it's a space to focus, collaborate and interact.

See also: How Relevant Is The Office In The Post-Covid Era?

Here are eight offices which have been designed not just to encapsulate their company's ethos, they're the kind of spaces that have been carefully calibrated to inspire.

1. Motherquarters by POW Ideas

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Above The central island inspired by suburban malls. Photos: David Yeow
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Above Jane Chuck in her Motherquarters

An impressive showcase of what can be achieved with Consentino surfaces; Jane Lau (better known as uber-influencer Jane Chuck), recently unveiled her new workspace, Motherquarters in collaboration with the brand.

 

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Photo 1 of 4 Ample space was provided for Chuck's merchandise
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Designed by Jun Ong, co-founder of POW Ideas, Motherquarters features a fountain centrepiece “inspired by suburbia malls and mid-century homes” and highly Instagram-mable corners displaying the beauty and fashion entrepreneur’s products. 

Don't miss: 8 Feng Shui Tips for a Harmonious Dining Room

 

2. Wanderlust + Co HQ by Jarsche Design Studio

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Photo 1 of 3 Neutrals set the stage for a serene work space Photos: The Space Storyteller
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Beloved jewellery brand, Wanderlust + Co recently renovated office by by Jarsche Design Studio is an ode to zen minimalism.

A serene landscape of white and neutral, grounded earth tones, the rounded shapes and edges favoured in furniture, built-ins and displays imbue the space with a soft tactility.

 

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Above Rounded shapes add softness
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Above The mood indicator also dispenses treats

Comprising multiple spaces, including a lounge, production room and photo studio, the space seats up to 35 staff. Whimsical touches like a mood indicator with a treat dispenser wall and a woodland-inspired mini garden add charm to this welcoming space.

Don't miss: Home Tour: A Pretty Pastel Mumbai Apartment With Transformable Bedrooms

3. Nevermore office by Nevermore

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Photo 1 of 3 Glass blocks were used in the facade to bring natural into the space. Photos: The Space Storyteller
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Penang-based award-winning design firm Nevermore's recently completed office is as chic and stylish as their work. With a mid-century modern direction, clever space planning makes the 1,650 sq ft office appear much larger than it is. 

A slew of custom-made features and details were incorporated throughout the space, including an imported glass block wall to bring natural light into the office.

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Above The long work table can seat up to a dozen designers
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Above A custom cat "office" was included

Packing in various private rooms, a conference room and a common workspace which can host a dozen designers comfortably, the office also includes a cat office complete with a cat tree, a sleeping pod and a custom mini door for the resident cats.

Don't miss: Home Tour: An Architect's Loft-Like Kuala Lumpur Home has Space for Cats

 

 

4. Ground Team Red (GTR) and Teleport offices by ELTO Consultancy

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The reception desk has a view of planes landing and taking off behind it
Above The reception desk has a view of planes landing and taking off behind it. Photo: David Yeow Photography

The inspiration for the award-winning Ground Team Red (GTR) and Teleport's offices in Sepang by ELTO Consultancy centres around the elements which fuel the business they were in, the airline industry. GTR is a ground-handling services while Teleport is the cargo and logistics platform for Air Asia, and they are located in the former low cost carrier terminal. 

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Dynamic lines make this a stimulating office environment
Above Dynamic lines make this a stimulating office environment (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

With two companies under one sprawling co-working space, the designers wanted to an office that would connect people and their ambition and imagination at work. The stage is set with a view of the plane take off ad landing behind the reception counter where the branding for both companies can be seen in its corporate colours. While an industrial look was favoured in materials and finishes such as iron plates, rivets, concrete paint, and concrete flooring, the designer played with lighting and vibrant orange to energise the space. 

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Even the board room was designed to have a sophisticated industrial style
Above Even the board room was designed to have a sophisticated industrial style (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

The office area and the shared recreation area are divided with a row of perforated panels. The perforated panels are good to make the space more open but also to give a sense of privacy to the workers. Airplane turbines were transformed into seating in the waiting area, while the bar top takes on a wing shape. Another huge wing art installation can be seen at the heart of the space which feature more than just a decorative function, it connects its occupiers to the essence of the entire workspace.

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Interesting details make this an office to remember
Above Interesting details make this an office to remember (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

This open plan is casual and without hierarchy to promote socialising free and stimulate wild and big thinking. Not only does the office fulfil its young workforce’s need for a workspace that is interesting and imaginative, it is an efficient environment that is productive and stress less while embodying the soaring aviation spirit

See also: Will These 4 Billionaires Soon Travel To Space After Richard Branson?

5. CBRE Malaysia HQ by SW1 Solutions

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Modern yet inviting, CBRE's main entrance is a precursor to its interiors
Above Modern yet inviting, CBRE's main entrance is a precursor to its interiors

A global leader in the real estate industry, CBRE’s new Malaysian headquarters designed by SW1 Solutions was driven not only by space needs for their expanding business but also a desire to transition to a new more modern, collaborative and higher productivity way of working.

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Social spaces are dotted throughout the sprawling offices
Above The Malaysian identity is celebrated in art across CBRE Malaysia's vibrant office

To this end, the designer conceptualised flexible workspaces which enhance productivity, collaboration and sharing of creative ideas while ensuring they created a unique space where employees can be inspired and proud.

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The Malaysian identity is celebrated in art across CBRE Malaysia's vibrant office
Above The Malaysian identity is celebrated in art across CBRE Malaysia's vibrant office

Located in 1Powerhouse, Petaling Jaya, many activated spaces in the 18,320 sq ft office, like the work café and outdoor terrace, embody a sense of work-life balance. New technology was also incorporated to enable improved wayfinding, sustainability measures, room booking solutions and contactless provisions, which have become more important as a result of the ongoing global pandemic. 

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The bird sculpture upcycle chicken wire along with fabric off-cuts.
Above The bird sculpture upcycle chicken wire along with fabric off-cuts

Apart from an ultra-modern office design, SW1 Solutions also incorporated a blend of Malaysian culture and heritage to connect with the demographic and communicate CBREs brand values. Local artists, sculptors and filmmakers were commissioned to create artworks, which took inspiration from local flora and fauna. Ensuring a strong Malaysian theme throughout, all artworks use eco-friendly paints and varnishes while the sculptures upcycle chicken wire along with fabric off-cuts.

See also: Expert Tips On Starting Your Own Malaysian Art Collection

6. Genting Malaysia Premier Office by Blu Water Studio

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Upon arrival, the blue leather-wrapped reception counter greets guests
Above Upon arrival, the blue leather-wrapped reception counter greets guests (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

Located on the 25th floor of Wisma Genting Kuala Lumpur, the premier office space for Genting Group’s executives and directors underwent a makeover to redefine the working environment with a new purpose.  

Throughout the 16,000 sq ft space spread over two levels, the Blu Water Studio design team was inspired by the Genting Group’s core values and translated that into a modest, refined and warm interior design language. 

See also: Get Ready For Genting's RM3.2 Billion Outdoor Theme Park

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Powder coated steel cut outs recreate the contour lines of Genting Highlands and its developments
Above Powder coated steel cut outs recreate the contour lines of Genting Highlands and its developments (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

At the entrance, a cantilevered reception counter sits next to a stunning preserved moss installation whose undulating form takes it cues from the topography of the company’s emblematic property.

To ensure a more conducive working environment, the design team introduced the Club, a common area for breaks, casual discussions and an alternative workstation. Like a co-working space, the Club features an eclectic mix of furniture pieces including distinctive pieces from Gebruder Thonet, Vitra and Cassina. Other designer pieces from Stellar Works and FLOS lighting add character to the common area which can also be transformed into a presentation or event space.

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The refurbished staircase leading to the floor above has a glass railing on one side and recessed handle on the other.
Above The refurbished staircase leading to the floor above has a glass railing on one side and recessed handle on the other (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

The lower office floor houses semi-private spaces which sport collapsible panels to provide for greater flexibility with regards to function. Glass walls allow daylight to diffuse evenly into corridor spaces, ensuring brightly lit corners throughout.  

 

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The G-Lounge works as a breakout room for the directors or a flexible show-tell space for presentation
Above The G-Lounge works as a breakout room for the directors or a flexible show-tell space for presentation (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

With the wellbeing of its occupants always in mind, the mood evoked is never intimidating with a warm neutral palette and simple contemporary design. Even the director and chairman’s Rooms are given a contemporary edge with a suite-style approach. 

7. YTL Land 25th floor by Design Spirits Co

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Warm wood and metallic highlights were used throughout the office
Above Warm wood and metallic highlights were used throughout the office (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

As the various components of the YTL Corporation fill up its new headquarters, Menara YTL, the 25th floor was designed by the Kuala Lumpur office of the Japan-headquartered interior design consultancy, Design Spirits Co.

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Natural light washes into the YTL Land offices minimising the need for artificial light
Above Natural light washes into the YTL Land offices minimising the need for artificial light (Photo: David Yeow Photography)

The 9,000 sq ft  space was designed for the various departments of YTL Land and its scale was kept deliberately intimate to foster a sense of community while enhancing physical and social connectivity and communication.

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A relaxation pod is provided for moments of contemplation
Above A relaxation pod is provided for moments of contemplation. Photo: David Yeow Photography

Two zones were created with different design concepts to separate the style and mood. First, an open and transparent office was designed to represent the concept of staff connectivity. Second, many communal spaces were created to encourage mutual communication to occur naturally.

 

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Handsome finishes make for an appealing office
Above Handsome finishes make for an appealing office. Photo: David Yeow Photography

Warm handsome materials like walnut veneer, pine and quartz are enhanced by metallic glints of bronze and stainless steel, all chosen to create a welcoming environment. Since the office unit is covered with glass windows, the layout was planned to maximise the natural sunlight by the location of partitions, and to minimise lighting usage.

See also: From Li Yen To Shook!: Special Delivery Menus From 5 YTL Hotels Restaurants

 

8. V.S. Industry Berhad’s office by Team BJ Design

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V.S. Industry Berhad's elegant offices represent the company's brand values
Above V.S. Industry Berhad's elegant offices represent the company's brand values

Located in Senai Airport City, V.S. Industry Berhad’s office designed by Team BJ Design is a multi-functional space which is as conducive to its occupants’ wellbeing as it is impressive enough to entertain clients.

A Global Integrated Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) Provider, the concept was to create an established brand experience with a personal touch and emphasis of hospitality to replace the conservative image of this manufacturing giant.

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Premium materials lend the V.S. Industry Berhad's office an air of exclusivity
Above Premium materials lend the V.S. Industry Berhad's office an air of exclusivity

Spread out over 8000 sq ft over two levels, apart from the standard office components, the designers added additional features for the office to be able to host international guests who fly in through Senai Aiport in style.

For instance, the formal board room was designed to transform into a venue for fine dining, if required. The company’s product gallery which showcases their motor mechanisms is elevated by being displayed in a sophisticated art gallery style.

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Sleek design and thoughtful details elevate this office
Above Sleek design and thoughtful details elevate this office

From Interface carpet tiles to premium Caesarstone for countertops, Neolith Stone for feature wall claddings to Titanium coated stainless steel panels, premium materials and finishings were incorporated to ensure quality and durability.

 

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The board room can be converted to a function room easily
Above The board room can be converted to a function room easily

The client gamely infused his individual touch by adding one of his favourite art pieces into the bar lounge area to create a sense of personalisation to the space. The courtyard landscape design was also carefully curated by the client himself.

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