A striking effect at AOL's new office

Two fittings from Zumtobel’s Sconfine range by Matteo Thun were key ingredients in creating a contemporary environment at AOL’s recent expansion of its central London offices.

“The brief was for a young, vibrant, creative space that maximised efficiency and provided a flexible workplace,” says Chantel Dykstra of architect and consulting engineer CB Richard Ellis, which also handled the lighting design. “We had seen the Sconfine range and were quite excited to use it because we thought the fittings would work really well in the space.”

The Sconfine Linea T5 fittings in the reception area had to meet a series of criteria: they had to be surface-mounted and suspended because of the concrete ceiling and deep exposed beams. They also had to reflect the minimalist warehouse aesthetic of the offices while providing an even, glare-free light distribution. By installing them horizontally, they appear as floating lines of light, visually extending the room.

“The brief was for a young, vibrant, creative space that maximised efficiency and provided a flexible workplace”

The fittings had to provide a graphic element to echoe the dynamics of the space. “The hardwood strip flooring is positioned at an angle, so we decided to use a linear fitting to reflect that angular effect to lead people through the space,” says Dykstra.

The Sconfine Sfera spherical pendant picks up the theme in the break-out area. “Having a family of fittings helped to tie it all in,” adds Dykstra. “We positioned the Sfera over the tables so you can see the connection from the reception through to the break-out area.

“We had a lot of glass throughout the offices so both fittings tied in with that too. They provided a good amount of light and a really nice effect.”

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