The WSL (Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research) Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF embarked on a significant project to create a new office space, with the primary goal of accommodating their expanding team. Sustainability was a key focus, both in terms of construction and operation, reflecting a broader environmental commitment. The project manager recognised the need for furniture that aligned with this sustainability ethos, resulting in environmentally conscious seating solutions by Flokk making it into the workspace.
The new office space comprises various types of rooms, including one, two, and four-person offices, meeting rooms, and common areas. Initially, the plan was to design open-plan offices; however, due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, they shifted towards more conventional, classic office structures. The primary challenge was to design an office environment that met the sustainability and quality standards of the client.
The centre worked in collaboration with furniture supplier JOMA Trading AG when selecting furniture for the project. The furniture had to be durable, maintainable, and environmentally responsible. Swiss partners were engaged for on-site repairs, reinforcing the sustainability aspect of the furniture. Flexibility and modularity were vital in the meeting room, which required furniture that could easily adapt to different use cases. For example, the large meeting room needed furniture that could be quickly reconfigured to suit various purposes.
Three different furnishing concepts were presented to the steering group, with Joma Trading AG's concept, featuring Flokk furniture, standing out as the best option, both in terms of sustainability and high-quality performance.
The giroflex 353 was selected for office and meeting room use due to several factors. The giroflex 353 is a high performance task chair offering ergonomic features including synchro-motion and a dual seat zone. It has easy to use controls for adjustability as well as a strong environmental performance. Built to last, it is also easily repairable. Chairs were upholstered in Xtreme by Camira, a fabric made from 100% recycled polyester, and chosen in two different configurations, a mesh-back office chair as well as a cantilever meeting room chair.
In the lounge area, Fan chairs and matching Profim SR40 Tables were chosen. The Fan chairs with wooden legs were chosen to provide a touch of homeliness and blend seamlessly with the office's natural surroundings. The colour scheme throughout consists of shades of blue and grey, harmonising with the building's design, reflecting the theme of snow, glaciers, and ice.
Flokk's furniture, in collaboration with Joma Trading AG, proved to be the ideal solution, with designs that met the client's environmental goals and delivered a flexible and aesthetically pleasing workspace. The project underscores the importance of thoughtful furniture selection in creating a workspace that not only functions effectively but also align with the organisation's values and vision.
Featured Products
Professionals used in
WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF)
More projects from
Flokk
About the
Professional
Flokk is a market leader for high-quality seating solutions in Europe. We believe in creating furniture that meets the essential needs of people while also considering the impact on future generations
In Flokk we believe that human ingenuity, technological innovation and human centred values can lead to a positive future for humankind. A future with a healthy climate, sustainable use of resources, meaningful work and a high level of individual freedom and well-being. Attributes often associated to our origins in Nordic Culture, yet resoundingly humanistic, universal and inclusive.
Flokk is a design driven company creating products that earn their right to exist through serving fundamental human needs. Addressing emotional as well as physical factors all the while keeping the interests of future generations in mind. Products that have a clear and positive narrative, all the way through to the last detail of its manifestation.
We have the privilege and the responsibility to work towards this positive future directly through our activities. But also indirectly, through sharing transparently about our practice and progress, to inspire the great work of others. As we do acquisitions, we invite new family members to take part in the same philosophy and journey. When customers choose our furniture, they get lasting, meaningful objects, produced with the lowest possible environmental footprint. They contribute to an onwards journey of steady improvement at scale.
- ArchiPro Member since2022
- Follow
- Locations
- More information