OFFICE BUILDINGS

Dear Readers,

First, the bad news: 78 percent of employees in Germany are doing nothing more than the bare minimum at work – up from 67 percent in 2023. Only nine percent still feel a strong emotional connection to their job and company – the lowest figure since surveys began in 2001! And only 50 percent of employees want to stay with their current employer for another
year. In 2018, that number was 78 percent, and it has been declining ever since. These insights come from a Gallup survey conducted by phone of around 1,700 employees in Germany. Oh dear! The reasons are manifold: uncertainty caused by politics, the economy and global events, shifting values regarding the relationship between work and private life… So what can be done? Now, finally, some good news: Many employers see the architecture and interior design of their company buildings and workspaces as key opportunity to respond to employees’ needs and concerns. Identity-shaping, feel-good spaces – where like-minded colleagues can gather for creative exchange and joint implementation of values and aims – can provide a remedy. At least, that’s the conclusion reached by the clients who, with the support of dedicated interior designers and architects, are able to offer workplaces that are not only enticing perks but also make smart, sustainable use of existing structures, materials and furnishings. You’ll find the best examples in this issue on offices. When selecting projects, we were struck by the dominant presence of a bold blue (as seen above in the ia&w office, and from p. 78). It symbolises relaxation, composure, objectivity, neutrality, trust and security – sentiments we certainly can’t have enough of these days! And there’s more good news: Chemnitz is one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2025 – make sure to plan “A Weekend in…”, we’ve already mapped out the tour for you! In Stuttgart, the Art Alarm gallery tour takes place on the first weekend of April, featuring architect Karl Amann and his Sammlung Amann gallery with Monika Supé’s latest exhibition “Enigmata”, amongst others. Turn to page 32 to find out how this “Change of Perspective” came about. In his essay starting on page 48, Dominik Reding promises that there is still hope for a creative, happy ending for all kinds of uncool desk criminals. And now it’s time to pack our bags for the Salone del Mobile in Milan starting on 8 April. Will we see you there?

Best wishes
Petra Stephan, Dipl.-Ing.
Chief Editor
Architect