Details: Samsung Design Europe
Location: St Mary Axe, London, England
Architectural Design: McLaren Excell
Design & Fit Out: Oktra
Samsung Design Europe's relocation to the iconic building at 70 St Mary Axe in London embodies their commitment to innovation and forward-thinking vision. In collaboration with the architects at McLaren Excell, design and build leader Oktra created a sophisticated, timeless workspace that blends European design principles with South Korean heritage. The studio now aligns more closely with Samsung Design Europe's brand identity by offering a human-centered, minimalist environment that serves as a blank canvas, fostering creativity and collaboration.
Varying light levels enhance the user experience, adding a refined sense of drama. Visitors pass through a low-lit, enclosed lobby before entering the bright, open-plan area that immediately soothes with its soft materials, biophilic elements and subtle colour palette. A timber slatted wall then defines the interior, inviting exploration of the space. Wrapping around meeting rooms and breakout areas, the Korean-inspired pine structure adds both texture and scale to the studio.
Highlights from my photography of the workspace are showcased below.