Enhancing workspaces at BIG HQ

Project details

 

Architect/Design 
Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG)

 Location  
Copenhagen, Denmark  

Opening 
2023 

Kvadrat solutions 
Kvadrat Acoustics solution comprising Soft Cells Broadline panels in meeting rooms and workshops upholstered with a custom metallised textile and curtains in Ginger 2.

BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) has chosen a Kvadrat Acoustics solution for their new, 7-storey headquarters in Copenhagen. It is situated on a narrow pier in Copenhagen's Nordhavn harbour. 

At the HQ, the Kvadrat Acoustic solution meets the acoustic challenge provided by the hard elements that characterise the interior, like large windows, stone, raw aluminium, and hot rolled steel. At its core is a workspace where Kvadrat Acoustics’ solutions help shape a productive and comfortable meeting room environment for everyone working there. 

Aesthetic precision and simplicity

A bespoke Kvadrat Acoustics solution transforms BIG's meeting rooms into immersive, visually striking spaces. The installation features Soft Cells panels in dynamic rectangular and trapezoid shapes, upholstered with a unique metallised textile that faces into the room. These panels not only optimise acoustic performance but also create a captivating shimmering effect. As the sunlight reflects off the sea and onto the metallic surfaces of the ceiling, it fills the meeting rooms with a gentle shimmer throughout the day. 

The metallic textile finish perfectly complements BIG’s chosen material palette, harmonising seamlessly with the aluminium and steel elements used across the headquarters. This thoughtful textile selection allowed BIG to realise its vision of a sleek, minimalistic design without sacrificing exceptional acoustic quality.

 

"The combination of large panel sizes with very fine tolerances and the delicate surface of the textile means that the ceilings in the meeting rooms have a very clean expression. And yet, at closer inspection, a tactile quality that changes as the sun moves across the sky. Kvadrat Acoustics' expertise in fabrics, production of panels and installation has been great throughout the process, and we are very pleased with the result."
Frederik Lyng, Partner BIG CPH. 

Seamless design with integrated A/V

In the meeting rooms, employees benefit from more than just improved acoustics. The ceilings, which hide microphones and speakers integrated into the acoustic panels, allow for an unobstructed, clutter-free workspace. With all A/V equipment hidden in the ceiling and no visible components on the tables, walls, or ceilings, visual distractions are minimised, allowing greater focus during presentations. This enhances focus during meetings, particularly virtual ones.

Everyday light management

Window coverings play a crucial role in enhancing the working environment at BIG’s headquarters, which is characterised by expansive windows and open-plan offices. To strike a balance between brightness and comfort, BIG selected Kvadrat curtains. These curtains help maintain the natural light while effectively softening the harshness of direct sunlight.

“Every afternoon, our office is filled with natural light from the south-facing windows. The curtains by Kvadrat serve as a great addition to the space, allowing us to maintain a bright and comfortable work environment, without the intensity of direct sunlight." Communications Coordinator, BIG

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