What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term “call centre”? For me, it’s exhausted employees, linear tech-heavy workstations, poorly lit spaces and dull-coloured walls. This 1,600 sq ft Kanpur office by Studio KNest completely upends the stereotypical image of a call centre.
Entrusted with incorporating various functional areas—including a reception, manager and owner cabins, a staff zone for 15 individuals, a game area, pantry and restrooms —Studio KNest aimed to craft a workspace that has a dash of Mumbai flair.
The design weaves earthy, tactile elements like lime-wash finishes, wooden floors and arched doorways making the office space less mundane and more visually interesting. “With its iconic arches, rustic interiors, human-centric ethos and technological integration, we wanted to set a new standard for corporate environments” says Architect Kunal Gupta of Studio KNest.
The office’s design promotes an open-plan adaptability, allowing an uninterrupted flow between workspaces, collaboration zones and recreational spaces.
Art plays a pivotal role in shaping the character of the space, with walls enlivened by curated artwork. These visual elements not only bring energy to the office but also foster a sense of communal identity among employees.
At the heart of the layout is an anthropocentric design that prioritises the individual. Ergonomically designed workstations and strategically placed greenery create a space conducive to both productivity and well-being.
A defining feature is the arched passageway. The pantry area provides hand-painted murals that add energy to the space. This space acts as a communal hub where employees can recharge, fostering moments of camaraderie.
The game zone is characterised by its distinctive black-and-white flooring and wooden fluted panels. Its rhythmic aesthetic provides a balance to the work areas, offering employees a refreshing escape.
Finally, the workstations are situated beneath a stretched ceiling designed to simulate a skylight. This feature gives the impression of working under an open sky, flooding the space with light.
Did the space shatter your assumption of a call centre as well?
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