Work
In Office Serenity
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CompanyA Interiors
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office locationRiyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Project nameMurafaat Law Firm
Rarely does one encounter a law firm or corporate office that evokes a sense of calm or comfort, yet A Interiors’ solution for Saudi-based Murafaat Law does exactly that.
The project needed to elicit a sense of stature and trustworthiness for the firm and its attorneys, as well as create a relaxing environment for the visiting clients. To create a functional space for workers and a tranquil place for clients, a neutral palette baths each surface.
Highlights, shadows, and natural textures lend visual intrigue without disrupting the aesthetic while also providing a base for exposed industrial finishes and sleek modern lines to rebel against.
The balance of opposites
The office space infrastructure and height were design challenges.
Covering the air ducts would drastically impact the equilibrium of the space, so, rather than attempting to hide or obstruct them, they were included and embraced. Painting the raw cement ceilings, vents and pipes in soft grays to mirror a silver travertine floor created an open and soft effect, allowing breath, air and energy throughout.
The seating in the office prioritizes comfort and is paired with geometric-shaped tables, an approach not often seen in corporate spaces. Though mostly actual “office furniture,” each piece for this space was individually selected to impart a sense that individual items were collected over time for unique combinations that avoid the cold uniformity typical of large offices.
Finding the right light
An Arabesque-motif screen greets visitors
An Arabesque-motif screen greets visitors and immediately commands a calm ambience while offering both privacy and subtle light patterning on surrounding surfaces. This soft and dappled effect pairs with trees and plants seen at every glance to add a feeling of being in a more natural, organic space.
While A Interiors tendency is toward intimate, mood-creating lighting and fixtures, the law firm required a more practical and functional approach for attorneys at work. Soft spotlights create a balance between function and form, allowing users ample reading light for pouring over documents as well as supporting the overall design intention of serenity and calm.