referencesOpdrachtgever: Unilever NV.
Architect: Fokkema Architecten–Delft
Furnishing the headoffice of a multinational corporation is a tall order for architect and interior builder alike. The ground floor of Unilever Corporate Centre at Rotterdam in daily use serves as reception hall, however the design is such that it can also be easily modified and be used for major events. The reception desk has been finished all round with bent glass with a smooth, transparent color print. For security reasons the desk can be closed off at the side of the public by means of six bent glass sliding doors. In the hall visitors can take a seat on so-called ‘meandering couches’ which have various heights and colors. The design originates from the old-fashioned school eraser. Special showpillars have been designed to present the various brands of Unilever Corp. Besides the ‘meandering couches’ visitors have the option to sit at the ‘meandering table’. This table is designed and positioned in the hall in such a way that it reminds one of the spinal chord. Of course guest find all possible facilities to connect laptop computers and other mobile hardware nicely integrated into the table. Both “meandering couches”, the “meandering table” as well as the showpillars have been designed and constructed in such a way that they can be readily taken apart and moved. On the second floor we find the restaurants with several counters, bars, a ‘demo desk’ (where new products are displayed) and, of course, couches for lounging. Prominent is the use of Bisazza mosaic tiles (coloured glass) in various colours.
