Truma

Putzbrunn, Germany

The innovative supplier of accessories for caravans and motor homes enjoys a long-term partnership with Vitra. Truma has placed its trust in Vitra's expertise for the planning and implementation of customised office concepts since the first major project in 2012. It was in these circumstances that renovation of the 'Rundbau' started in 2015 – an iconic circular building dating back to the early 1980s. Planners from Vitra were involved from the beginning of the project so that necessary adjustments could be implemented very early on to suit the future working environment. A significant increase in the workforce was also recorded during the construction phase making it necessary to stop the planning process of the office concept and start again from scratch in order to be able to accommodate the extra staff within the same space. The new structure was designed with a proportion of desk sharing while the layout is so flexible that it can be quickly and easily adapted to future changes in staff numbers and work methods without any refurbishment or removal costs.

Interior architecture
Vitra
Photographer
Eduardo Perez

It was essential for the client that the interior conveys its corporate identity and values – to employees, customers and visitors alike. A good example is the so-called atrium: a large round space that was previously poorly used. Through its new function as a creative multimedia room, outfitted to allow flexible use, it is now a highlight of the premises and a staff meeting point.

Managing the change was an essential success factor as the work environment was transformed from a series of team offices structured by numerous walls with allocated desks to an open-plan landscape that promotes communication and team work. Drawing on experience from countless projects, Vitra was able to accompany this transition all the way, alleviate any apprehension and stir up enthusiasm. The new offices were used naturally and intuitively from the word go and were very well accepted by company employees.

1. On-site inspection
The status quo is analysed—which parts of the building can stay, which areas must be changed, which spaces are suitable for what, where are the biggest challenges.

2. The Vitra Index System

3. User Workshop

2. The Vitra Index System
It is difficult for office users to formulate their requirements. Vitra has therefore developed a simple index system, which serves as a tool between employees, management and architects.

3. User Workshop
Vitra focuses on people, as independent studies show that motivation and efficiency peak in well outfitted spaces. In workshops moderated by Vitra, employees actively participate in the planning process: who needs what space, who communicates with whom and who needs what additional equipment.

4. Layout Planning

5. Interior Design

4. Layout Planning
The results of the workshops are implemented during the planning phase producing a layout that includes team distribution and space allocation.

5. Interior Design
The layout is planned with interior design elements that will promote the correct functioning of the future work environment. Sociological and emotional aspects are also taken into consideration in addition to division of space, furnishings and technology so that the workspace also becomes a living space.

6. Interior Design

6. Interior Design
The choice of materials enables the elaboration of a unique concept that implements employee requirements while reflecting the client brand. This includes a rough concept for lighting and acoustics.

7. Interior Design
Walls, floors, ceilings or walkways are not the only elements to be defined. Furnishings and details such as cushions, accessories and screens also make a decisive contribution to the overall appearance of the new environment. The end result should not inspire the client but the people that work there. Implementation begins upon completion of the planning phase.

‘What we now see—and we have only been in the building for three weeks—is that people are simply fascinated. And even those who are 55 and have been with us for 30 years. This is because they notice that the company truly values its employees. For me, we’ve reached the summit when employees are proud of the company.’

Robert Strauß, Managing Director of Truma

Discover the full story