Netherlands embassy in Athens | gfra architecture

The Dutch Embassy in Athens was chosen as a pilot project for the implementation of the most current philosophy of public office collaborative work environment in the Netherlands, called 'Het Nieuwe Werken'. The existing embassy occupies the complete fourth floor of an office building with several other embassies across the Panathenaic Stadium. The embassy was transformed into an open office space where flexible and alternative workspaces are provided for the embassy staff. Even the ambassador for example has no longer his own office, but works according to his activity at one of the provided workplaces.
In order to express a Dutch identity, mainly was focused on character elements such as clarity and openness through transparency. The overall space was given a clear, clean technological look, using white and grey. Colour and character was introduced through the careful choice of signage, furniture and art.
Fitting with the technological cleanness of the space, specific reference is made to the Amsterdam airport of Schiphol with the use of authentic airport wayfinding signs. In cooperation with Schiphol airport these were designed and manufactured by the firms that provide the airport. In the embassy the signs specify the activity of each area and gives a recognizable identity both for Dutch people and foreigners. Furniture accommodates the collaborative functions and together with pendant lighting elements are again references to the Netherlands, by choosing mainly Dutch design products. Also art plays an important role in the character of the space, by using modern references to classic Dutch art and culture.