Asia & The Gulf Commercial Design Trends Asia Commercial Design Vol. 30/9 | Page 6

There are many reasons behind the rapid evolution of office design. Technology is one – wireless networks and smart phones mean employees no longer need to be tied to a single workstation. But a more collaborative approach to problem solving is probably the biggest instigator of change. There is a growing recognition that communication and flexibility are vital in the workplace. @DavidJideas facebook.com/trendsideas David Johnson In this issue of Commercial Design Trends we profile office projects that are indicative of the growing move towards activity-based working, where one size does not fit all. These offices place an emphasis on sustainability, collaboration and opportunities for interaction. But they also recognise the need for plenty of natural light, quiet zones and breakout areas. These projects also highlight another key change – the need for stimulating office environments that bring a little fun to the workplace. Bright colour accents, funky designer furniture, leafy plants, indoor-outdoor rooms, and café-style kitchens are de rigeur. Today, employees are given every encouragement to be the very best they can be, and the results speak for themselves. In this issue, we also profile two dramatic apartment buildings with a real point of difference. The Interlace apartment complex in Singapore shows that great design isn’t just for an elite few – it can also transform more populist developments. In another story, the upmarket Eliza apartment building in Sydney was designed using parametric computer modelling, which enabled a cost-effective undulating facade where every floor is different. All this and so much more. Check out the tertiary education projects, which showcase new learning methodologies – not unlike the holistic approach to office design. Happy reading Managing Editor John Williams – [email protected] Regional Sales Director – SE Asia Hans Geese – [email protected] Editorial Editorial Director Paul Taylor Home Series Editor Kathleen Kinney Digital Editor James Gilbert Subeditor Jane McKenzie Senior Writer Colleen Hawkes Staff Writer Charles Moxham Email [email protected] International Business President Judy Johnson – [email protected] General Manager Trends Media Group Louise Messer Director of Strategic Planning Andrew Johnson – andrew.johnson@trendside