The design of Unibaltic’s new headquarters stemmed from a deliberate decision to adapt an existing postmodern building from the 1990s – a style that, for many years, was associated with unjustified opulence, formal disorder, and kitsch. In the context of today’s climate crisis and the principles of responsible design, the choice to reuse rather than build anew was both environmentally sound and symbolically significant. The design team sought to minimise alterations to the existing structure, preserving original features such as balustrades, granite flooring, and even the distinctive dark stone lift portal. The staircase – so often relegated to a secondary role – was reimagined as the heart of the building. Clad in striking wallpaper, it invites movement and encourages the use of stairs over the lift.
The existing building was approached with much sensitivity and respect. Honouring its original structural logic and form, the design introduced a new interpretive layer, placing its postmodern character in a contemporary context. Rather than erasing the style, the design modernised the structure to meet the demands of a twenty-first-century office while preserving its distinctive features as a testament to its era.
The interior design was guided by a detailed analysis of the company’s operational needs, with the goal of creating a workspace that fosters creativity, collaboration, and employee well-being. Office areas were designed to remain neutral and functional, while shared spaces received a more individual, even emotive, character. In the dining room, green wallpaper adorned with cranes encourages relaxation, while the conference room showcases the preserved original cradle vault, accentuated by a custom-designed pattern.
The investor’s socially and environmentally conscious approach addressed diverse user needs, incorporating terraces with lounge furniture and greenery, a dining room, a games room, a relaxation lounge, cyclist facilities, and a quiet work zone in the attic. Key considerations included ergonomics, accessibility, acoustic comfort, and optimal lighting, alongside the creation of flexible layouts to accommodate individual work, teamwork, and both formal and informal meetings.
The design deliberately minimised interventions, prioritising recycling and reuse wherever possible – this applied to structural elements, finishes, and furnishings, many of which were refurbished to give them new life. A notable feature in the CEO’s office is a desk crafted from NOD board, a highly durable material made from walnut shells. This innovative use of organic waste was recognised internationally, with the desk material nominated in the Art category of the prestigious Ro Guiltless Award in Milan (2023), which promotes the principles of zero waste.
The ecological approach extended beyond reuse, encompassing a comprehensive thermal modernisation of the building. All window frames were replaced with modern, energy-efficient units offering high thermal insulation. The roofs and flat roofs were insulated to enhance the building envelope’s performance, addressing a key source of heat loss through the upper structure. Thermal bridges – previously a major cause of uncontrolled heat escape – were eliminated, improving both the building’s energy balance and indoor comfort.
Simultaneously, outdated and inefficient technical systems, including heating, ventilation, and lighting, were replaced with modern, energy-saving installations. The building was equipped with heat pumps and a photovoltaic system, further enhancing its energy efficiency.
