Airbnb Tokyo Office

 

January 3, 2019 | Interior Design

Airbnb Tokyo Office by Suppose Design Office

The new Airbnb office in Shinjuku, Japan has a modern interior design with wooden elements. Airbnb’s Environments Team worked closely with local architects, Suppose Design Office, to create these functional workspaces that are enjoyable, practical and reflect Airbnb’s culture with references to local identity.

From the reception and café area, a wooden path leads to a series of building-like meeting rooms, designed using distinctive exterior cladding and interiors based on existing Airbnb listings.

Employees can use a range of work configurations including communal work tables, height adjustable desks, project tables, private and semi-private phone booths, lounges and cafes. This makes for healthy ergonomic movement, increased socializing and engagement, and a ‘belong anywhere’ work concept.

In response to employee feedback, nature was heavily incorporated into the new design to create a peaceful working space where employees can escape the chaotic urban environment of the local area in Shinjuku. When employees enter the office, they are transported into a tranquil setting surrounded by plants. The reception area is reminiscent of an outdoor café with a double height atrium that floods with natural light and park inspired work areas with wooden communal tables and green flooring.

A key element of the office is the Engawa, an elevated platform covered with Tatami mats inspired by traditional Japanese culture. Employees can remove their shoes and take a seat on one of the cushions where they can enjoy the spectacular view of Shinjuku. The tea house phone booths are made from local white oak and rice paper film to emulate the soft glow of a typical Japanese tea house.

Suppose Design Office developed café lighting reminiscent of lanterns floating up into the sky, wall sconces inspired by outdoor street lighting and custom-made simple and functional tables, crafted from local wood with black metal accents.

Photo: Studio Periphery