Celebrating Unity in Diversity

The recent project for Henkel in Amsterdam presented an exciting design opportunity: how to bring together a collection of unique brands under one visually cohesive roof. Each brand within the client’s portfolio has its own unique character and story. Our goal was to create a shared space that celebrated these distinct identities and established a connected look and feel.

Project data

Location

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Square

2700m2

Timeline

November 2023 – September 2024

The Concept: A Patchwork of Unique Pieces

Our answer to this design challenge was inspired by the concept of a patchwork quilt – individual pieces coming together to form a beautifully unified whole. This metaphor served as the foundation of our approach, symbolizing the interconnectedness of the client’s brands while allowing each to retain its essence. We brought this theme to life through several key design elements.

Flooring with a Twist

The workspaces feature a “patchwork” floor design, using overlapping carpet tiles in varied colours to create a dynamic, visually engaging environment. Additionally, we crafted a refined and intriguing flow of lines by harnessing natural light and blending various carpet nuances.

Heartfelt Installations

In the heart-shaped community space, we created a unique ceiling feature that truly brings the theme to life. This installation incorporates layers of colourful, flowing fabrics that create a three-dimensional patchwork, blending hues in a vibrant and inviting way. The curtains act as a connecting element across the floor, creating both airy, open spaces and private, enclosed areas. They embody the concept of ‘home away from home’ as a welcoming base for Henkel’s international employees

By embracing the patchwork concept, we crafted a visually striking space that is rich in symbolic meaning, celebrating the diverse identities that make up the brand family of Henkel. This new space not only looks stunning but also embodies the spirit of connection and diversity under one roof.

“Collaborating with Fokkema & Partners on the development of our new Global Supply Chain Headquarters in Amsterdam was an exceptional experience. They not only adhered to Henkel’s guidelines but also truly embodied Henkel’s spirit, seamlessly translating it into the design. From the initial drafts to the final outcome, the principles of sustainability, biophilia, and diversity consistently guided the design process. We are thrilled with the stunning result: an office that embraces collaboration, connection, and diversity.” Juliano Pinheiro – Corporate Real Estate Manager

Photography: Lucas van der Wee
Project partners: Buro Pothoven, Ditt Officemakers, Turner Townsend, Bosman Bedrijven