In April 2020, amidst the global pandemic, Enter Projects Asia (EPA), headquartered in Thailand, received a surprising inquiry from Waregem, Belgium. The client sought to revamp a 300sqm mixed-use space, aiming for ‘balance and calm’ within an industrial environment. EPA embraced the challenge, envisioning a design that harmonized with nature while incorporating creativity into the industrial backdrop.
Design Concept: Fluidity and Sustainability
Given the site’s history as an ice-making factory, EPA conceptualized a design reminiscent of the fluid properties of spring water crystallizing. The goal was to incorporate raw and sustainable materials, echoing the purity of natural elements. A crucial aspect was to ensure innovative logistics to realize the vision over a distance of more than 9,000km.
Remote Collaboration and Innovation
With the world in lockdown, EPA relied heavily on remote communication tools like Zoom for client meetings and virtual site visits. The project team spanned across Japan, Phuket, Sydney, and Northern Thailand, never physically meeting. Despite this, they collaborated seamlessly, exchanging digital files and manufacturing sculptural elements in natural rattan for shipment to Belgium.
Sculptural Elements: Fusion of Functionality and Aesthetics
The sculptural elements served multiple purposes, from lighting to seating and directional flow. A standout piece, towering 8 meters high, illuminated the lobby, enhancing the brand’s image. Each segment was meticulously designed for optimal functionality and aesthetics, ensuring a seamless assembly on-site in Belgium.
Sustainable Impact and Community Support
Beyond its aesthetic achievements, the project had a significant impact on local communities. By engaging rattan factories, the project provided a lifeline to craftsmen during challenging times. It ensured the continuity of sustainable arts and crafts production, supporting local economies and preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Future of Work: Adapting to Change
In April 2022, as the project concluded, the client and architects finally met in person at the site. This meeting symbolized not only the successful completion of the project but also highlighted the changing dynamics of work in a post-pandemic world. Remote collaboration and innovative approaches have become integral to the future of architectural projects, redefining traditional notions of leadership and workspace dynamics.
Conclusion: Redefining the Factory Space
The transformation of the factory space not only showcases architectural innovation but also embodies a shift towards creative and collaborative work environments. As the world continues to adapt, projects like these pave the way for a future where distance is no barrier to creativity and ingenuity.
