Beam Suntory, Singapore

Looking to consolidate its previously secluded office spaces in separate towers, a key objective for this project was to create a socially vibrant environment that embodies Beam Suntory’s brand mission of ‘inspiring human connections’ and fosters more meaningful working relationships. Another challenge was to consider the company’s 200-year-old cultural heritage combining Japanese and American craft throughout the design process and to conceptualise design features that would bring its unique personality and history to life.

Our deep understanding of our client’s history and East-meets-West culture inspired us to create a central front of house named The Ensō. Meaning “circle” in Japanese, its curving form symbolises balance and connection in zen philosophy and reveals stunning views of Singapore, elevating the journey from the reception and lobby area where staff come together over casual conversations, town hall meetings, and wider company events with stunning views of the Singapore skyline. Fully integrating custom illustrations and graphics early in the design process further stimulates a spirit of creativity and provide a meaningful storytelling journey that immerses staff and visitors.

Elements of “Growing for Good” are graphically inscribed onto walls to reflect the company’s commitment to protecting water and the environment. Using natural materials, furniture and biophilia, the office communicates a welcoming sense of comfort. Meeting rooms are located around the core of the floor plan to infuse maximum daylight inside the open office and support employee wellbeing. The open plan is interspersed with breakout areas to facilitate interactions among staff and provide ample space for movement between meeting areas while valuing individual focus with private booths and corner seats.

Our integrated solution covering all stages of the project, from conceptual design through construction and delivery, played an important role in translating our deep understanding of the company’s cultural heritage and business objectives into a progressive, meaningful workplace environment. Thorough, high-level research conducted on the organisation’s history and values early in the design development phase greatly influenced the success of this project, particularly the Ensō which stands as the spatial manifestation of the company’s mission to inspire “human connections” while drawing on its East-meets-West culture through design details and materials.