Grand Fontaine

Laboratoires Grand Fontaine΄s new headquarters in Barcelona

Located on the lower two levels of a mixed-use building in Barcelona, this project transforms an existing office into a new corporate headquarters. The brief called for a workplace accommodating approximately forty employees, combining open-plan workspaces with meeting rooms, shared amenities and informal areas that encourage collaboration and everyday interaction.

Accessed through the existing garden, the office is conceived as a sequence of spaces that gradually transition from the city into the workplace. Rather than distributing the programme evenly across the two floors, the proposal organizes the workplace around two complementary environments: one dedicated to focused work and the other to collaboration and shared activities. The ground floor accommodates the open-plan workspaces, while the upper level brings together the meeting rooms, the communal kitchen and shared spaces, creating an environment that supports both teamwork and informal exchange.

A key challenge of the project was introducing natural light into the lower level. Three strategically positioned skylights were incorporated into the terrace above, bringing daylight deep into the workspace and reducing the dependence on artificial lighting. Warm timber finishes and subtly textured materials were carefully selected to amplify the quality of light, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere that promotes concentration and well-being. Together, natural light and carefully chosen materials reinforce a sense of openness and spatial continuity throughout the office.

On the upper floor, the communal area opens directly onto the terrace, extending everyday activities beyond the building envelope. A continuous linear counter runs along the façade, visually connecting the interior with the outdoor space and creating a natural gathering place for the team. Conceived as the social heart of the workplace, this space encourages spontaneous interaction throughout the day, whether for a coffee break, a shared meal or an informal conversation. The result is a workplace where natural light, shared spaces and a clear spatial organization contribute equally to productivity and everyday well-being.

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