Dynamic Office Design in Zurich: The Dynamic Frame Office by Balbek Bureau

In the heart of Zurich's Binz district, an area rich in industrial history, lies the newly designed Dynamic Frame Office. Conceptualized by the Ukrainian architectural studio Balbek Bureau, this innovative workspace marries functionality with creativity, catering to the unique demands of a film production company. Completed in 2024, the project redefines modern office design, incorporating dynamic layouts, cutting-edge acoustics, and bespoke aesthetics to foster collaboration and creativity.

A New Chapter for Dynamic Frame

Dynamic Frame, a film production company specializing in fiction, documentaries, and commercials, sought to unite its previously separate offices under one roof. The new space not only accommodates its current team of 14 but also offers room for growth. The design needed to reflect the company’s ethos of constant movement and creativity, while supporting a wide array of tasks such as brainstorming, video editing, and client presentations.

Architectural Context and Challenges

Located on the ground floor of a new building in Zurich, the office space presented a blank slate for the architects. With exposed concrete beams, bare walls, and no utilities, the project required a comprehensive approach to planning and execution. Balbek Bureau embraced these challenges, integrating the industrial essence of the building into the office’s concept.

To address the acoustic challenges of the open layout, specialists designed sound-absorbing solutions, including perforated plasterboard cubes. Lighting was also a critical consideration, with tailored solutions developed in collaboration with Expolight to ensure optimal visual comfort and ambiance.

The Dynamic Frame Concept

The design concept was inspired by the company’s name, Dynamic Frame, which evokes both the cinematic process and the structural elements of architecture. The architects employed an open-frame grid layout, creating distinct functional zones separated by glass partitions and cubic structures. These cubes, visually aligned with the classic 4:3 aspect ratio, house spaces such as editing rooms, meeting areas, and a cinema.

The ceiling beams remain exposed, reinforcing the open-frame aesthetic, while the color palette combines warm ochre tones and green accents, reflecting the team's creative energy and the hues of the short film "People on Saturday," a notable work from Dynamic Frame's portfolio.

Key Spaces and Design Features

Entrance and Cloakroom

Visitors are greeted by a custom galvanized steel cloakroom designed to resemble a retro cinema ticket booth. Its multifunctionality extends beyond a traditional coat rack, serving as a showcase for event tickets and souvenirs.

Kitchen and Dining Area

A central gathering space for the team, the kitchen and dining area blend modern and vintage elements. Stainless steel countertops, a wood-finished island, and a vinyl record player create a cozy yet functional environment. Movie posters from the company's productions adorn the walls, adding a personal touch.

Lounge and Open Workspace

The lounge area, defined by a wooden floor square, features a custom amphitheater with integrated bookshelves and a mobile sofa cube. The open workspace strikes a balance between collaboration and privacy, with acoustic partitions ensuring sound control.

Editing Rooms

Designed with precision, the three editing rooms offer optimal acoustics and lighting. Glass blocks allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy. Each room includes custom podiums for seating and specialized racks for film equipment.

Cinema

The in-house cinema serves as both a presentation space and a screening room. Round windows echo the building’s façade, while custom furniture and adjustable lighting enhance the viewing experience.

A Collaborative Effort

The project exemplifies global collaboration, with Ukrainian contractors and designers contributing significantly despite logistical challenges. This partnership not only maintained high-quality standards but also highlighted the talent of Ukrainian craftsmanship.

A Vibrant Space for Creativity

The Dynamic Frame Office transcends the conventional workspace, embodying the spirit of innovation and adaptability. By integrating architectural creativity with the functional demands of film production, Balbek Bureau has crafted a space where ideas flourish and collaboration thrives.

All Photographs are work of Ivan Avdieienko