Rachel Jupina
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories Brazil Office
First Floor
Second Floor
This office is designed for Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) for an office in Salvador, Brazil. SEL is an employee owned company based in Pullman, WA. It is very important for them to listen to their employees needs in the workplace. It is also important to reflect the office location’s culture into the space. The concept for the Salvador, Brazil office was based on the traditional performance of the capoeira. The capoeira combines fast fighting movements with the grace of ballet. This idea was used to combine the traditional nature of SEL with the liveliness of Brazil. A more traditional workplace design is complemented by pops of color and respite areas. Incorporations of environmental graphics also help to give a sense of place in the office. These bring in the feeling of Salvador whilst also bringing in the message of SEL’s brand.
Desk Spaces
In the work spaces for SEL, it was important to have a some respite spaces within the work space. Two chairs are placed behind the stair to allow for this. SEL also preferred to have the employees all facing the same way so that there are less distractions. The desks are also in a forward position so they are not having to be approached from behind. Having the glass partition between desks allows each person to have a feeling of privacy but they are also open to communication with other people. Bringing the culture of Salvador, Brazil was also a key component. The pops of other on the wall allow for some liveliness to be brought in. Part of SEL’s motto, “Safer. Reliable. Economical.”. is put on the wall as a reminder to the employees as to what they are working towards.
Support Spaces
Smaller spaces that allow for individual work or respite were also important to SEL. The smaller conference rooms allow for small teams to come together and work on ideas. When not in use by teams, individual people could also use the space if they need a new location to work. Each small conference room is designated by color so they can be easily found. The coffee bar is also a nice space for respite for employees that need to take a break or just work in a new location. Employees have multiple ways to make coffee. The coffee bar is also located near the larger conference room allowing the president or VP to be able to easily bring guests food or drink. The custom wall paper is also based on the concept developed from Salvador’s culture.