THNK plantage middenlaan, Amsterdam | Concrete Architectural Associates

THNK is a creative leadership school in Amsterdam with the goal of solving the world’s greatest challenges by developing innovative leaders. THNK is written without an ‘I’ because, according to the company’s ethos, working together is necessary to solve our society's problems. Their office space, designed by Concrete, reflects their communal spirit and flexible work needs.⁠

The design

THNK employees need to use their office space in many different ways. Concrete designed a solution that combines all functionalities into one spatial element that is flexible in use. The playful wooden sculpture is stand-alone and can be re-adapted to new locations and functions. The element offers spots for people to work individually or in a team.

The third location

THNK was founded in Amsterdam in 2010 and this is the third headquarter Concrete designs for them. The company moves offices every few years by using interim locations: this reflects the idea that a change in environment encourages a change in mindset. The new location is at the Artis Amsterdam Zoo, offering stunning views of exotic animals and luscious gardens. The building was built in the nineteenth century as a library and still maintains its heritage status, featuring high ceilings and a mezzanine.

THNK often hosts presentations and workshops with larger groups of people. For these events, the presentation area, which is part of the element, can be adapted: wood benches on wheels can be easily relocated, stacked, or even stored away to make more space.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an important value of THNK, thus the interior is adaptable and multi-functional. The wooden furniture piece can be disassembled and moved into parts to a future office, leaving no permanent trace. Most of the furniture is recycled or upcycled. Tables from the previous location are used again, and the chairs got a second life by being re-upholstered.

Materials and colors

The space is characterized by natural, toned-down colors: white walls, an antique wooden floor, and a lot of daylight. The furniture piece is made of light wood, with pops of color in bright red and cobalt blue, characteristic colors of THNK. Large plants contribute to the liveliness of the space and make the office feel tropical. After all, giraffes and flamingos can be seen from the windows. The umpire chair in the center of the space allows one person to tower over everybody else, to be seen by a crowd, or to observe from a distance. It invites people at THNK to change their perspective, literally.