Creative Office Design: Inside Good Job Games Offices by Jeyan Ülkü Architects

Good Job Games, a dynamic gaming company based in Istanbul, wanted to create an innovative office environment that reflects the vibrancy of their team and the nature of their work. Designed by Jeyan Ülkü Architects, the 4300 m² space, completed in 2023, avoids the typical office environment, opting for a campus-like design that feels both youthful and creative. With a focus on open, casual working areas, the design embodies the energy and collaboration that define the company.

The Concept: A Street-Like Gallery

One of the most striking features of the Good Job Games offices is the entrance gallery, designed to evoke the feeling of a public street. The team wanted to avoid the sterile atmosphere of a conventional office, so the space was intentionally designed to resemble an open, communal space. Amenities are arranged like distinct buildings, with the long restaurant façade designed to resemble a glasshouse, mimicking the feel of walking through a street or park. This intentional design creates a dynamic and inviting environment for employees and visitors alike.

The design intentionally incorporates a variety of unique elements, such as the circular bench located around a large tree at the center of the gallery. This focal point encourages employees to gather and interact, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The central staircase, which connects various levels, is designed to resemble a set of bleachers, adding to the openness and connection between different areas of the office.

Flexible Workspaces: Breakout Areas and Meeting Spaces

Good Job Games' new office incorporates several breakout areas and open meeting spaces, both above and below the central gallery. These spaces are designed to foster creativity and encourage casual collaboration. Landscaping and greenery amplify the outdoor-like feel of the space, enhancing the connection to nature and contributing to a relaxed atmosphere.

One of the key features of the office is the marketplace-inspired café, which is adjacent to the circular bench and provides employees with access to fresh air through a semi-open terrace. This relaxed atmosphere allows employees to step away from their desks and recharge in a vibrant, social environment. The office is designed to offer flexibility, with spaces that can easily be adapted to different needs, whether for informal discussions, brainstorming sessions, or quiet work.

Innovative Office Layout and Features

The design of the "back of house" office areas is focused on functionality, with workstations separated by acoustical panels to ensure privacy and minimize distractions. The panels also support climbing plants, which contribute to the natural feel of the space. Writable walls are provided for each team, encouraging collaborative discussions and spontaneous idea sharing.

A secondary staircase connects the two office floors, doubling as a breakout area and printing station. High library shelves, integrated with reading benches, line the perimeter of the second floor, creating a space for quiet reflection and study. The continuous walkway around the second floor leads to the balcony, further enhancing the street-like ambiance of the office.

The Playground Floor: A Hub for Fun and Relaxation

The most vibrant and playful area of the office is the "playground floor" located on the lower level. Here, employees can unwind in a café, fully equipped fitness area, or PlayStation room. This floor is designed to provide relaxation and recreation, offering employees a space to rejuvenate during their workday. Natural light floods this level through strategically placed windows, ensuring the space feels bright and inviting.

Additionally, sleeping pods are provided in a quieter section of the office for moments of relaxation, a request made by the client to ensure a well-balanced work environment. These features reflect the creative, youthful nature of the company, which values both productivity and well-being.

Good Job Games Offices by Jeyan Ülkü Architects offers a dynamic, youthful, and creative workspace that mirrors the innovative culture of the company. The design successfully combines flexible workspaces, vibrant communal areas, and relaxing zones, all within a campus-like environment. This project exemplifies how creative office design can be used to foster collaboration, encourage creativity, and improve employee well-being.

All Photographs are work of İbrahim Özbunar