| OFFICE SPACE >
Modern functionality
Written by: Klára Smolová
Photo by: Hana Hamplová
One theme resonates through the
interior and exterior design of Philips headquarters in Prague
5, which was built in 1999 - modern functionality. Interiors,
including walls, are flexible, so it is possible to change the
space to separate or larger offices as needed. According to general
director Ruud Jona, people should immediately have the feeling
they've entered a hi-tech company.

"My office is comfortable, yet representative of our
values. 'Operational' technology - such as the VCR-TV combi,
PDA, plasma TV, phones, computer, remote control lighting
system, etc. - these are my every day workhorses. Logically,
my office is a good example how professional lighting design
can improve the quality of working conditions."
|

"The sofa and the armchair are a replica of 'Grand
Comfort' originally designed by Le Corbusier from 1929.
I think it is necessary to have a comfortable place in
the office when discussions do not require a formal setting."
|

"Part of my office space was also designed for exhibiting
a selection of Philips products. Historical Philips products
and brand new ones sit alongside each other, some of them
winners of international design awards."
|

"We offer the staff a small garden and pond to use
for lunch or a break."
|

"Our cafeteria was designed by architect Václav Hodan, and realized by Ranný
Architects. Philips is a company with a human face and the idea was to make our
employees feel good and comfortable. Colors, furniture, even the dishware were
customized to create a congenial atmosphere."
|

"A special detail is the foundation stone with an inserted cd-rom, carrying
a complete design draft of the building. Naturally, we integrate our own wide
range of products into the building."
|

"Architect Václav Hodan designed the reception and showroom area and Ranný
Architects implemented it. The requirements were elegance on one side and functionality
and professionalism on the other. He also designed the multifunctional lighting
system in the showroom."
|
|