Nestle Athens | A&M ARCHITECTS

Nestle, a global leader in food and beverages, recently underwent a comprehensive transformation, evolving from a traditional office to an innovative workplace. Departing from the conventional closed office setup, the new office embraces diverse work scenarios, emphasizing openness and flexibility in design through well-crafted co-working spaces tailored to support various work modes. Material choices played a pivotal role, creating atmospheres that fostered an immersive experience crucial for enhancing creativity while sustainability is incorporated to become a key aspect, aligning with the company's philosophy by including recycled materials into a biophilic approach.

Upon entering the building, the reception area exudes a welcoming character with soft curved contour lines in timber, reminiscent of the nurturing symbolism of a nest. Local elements like Greek marble and an olive tree near the reception desk enhance the regional identity. The seating area's materiality and color palette reflect local brands, while Nestle's values are dynamically communicated on an LED wall, accompanied by responsive lighting that adjusts according to the time of day.

The overall design revolves around a typical floor plan accommodating approximately 50-60 workstations per floor, complemented by alternative work environments tailored to the needs of different departments. The workplace prioritizes openness and natural light diffusion through perimeter openings, minimizing visual barriers while balancing the requirements for concentration and collaboration. Users have the freedom to choose their workspace, fostering engagement in a human-centric office environment, ultimately creating a productive and desirable workplace within a dynamic and responsive setting.

At the plan's center lies the "Core," an enclosed dynamic shape representing the company's core values and offering various facilities to different zones. Collaboration rooms, focus booths, pet corners, and refreshment points cater to the diverse needs of the space. The Core's aesthetic, linked to the "Growing" tree of Good Life, aligns with the company's workplace strategy while lounge areas and soft corners throughout the layout promote a cozy and safe atmosphere, encouraging dialogue and collaboration.

Each floor features an informal lounge meeting area facing the main entrance, serving as a versatile space for waiting, relaxation, or meetings. Adjacent is the "Amphitheatre," inspired by Greek sculptural folk architecture, offering a huddle space for the exchange of ideas, combining physical presence with technology. Refresh points on each level, themed as "Philoxenia (Hospitality)," serve as landmarks, fostering informal conversations and adapting to the floor's tenant brand. The meeting room "Synergasia" on the north side interprets the Aegean Sea's deep blue, symbolizing the dynamism of technology as a next generation means of communication and collaboration.

In the semi-basement, a vibrant cafeteria space prioritizes employee health and wellbeing, serving as a multi-purpose area for lunch, connections, or townhall meetings. Flexible furniture supports alternative setups, while greenery boosts the immune system and reduces stress, complemented by exterior views that encourage mindful thinking.