Contempo

Client: via.

Housed in a New York-style brick building, Contempo is an office space for an architecture and interior practice in Hong Kong. Designed to promote a sense of community and inspire ingenuity, the 2-storey office merges fluid work zones with myriad social spaces, drawing on an inventive palette to impart a relaxed, cohesive ambience. Main workspaces are framed by galvanized steel partitions, and where the emphasis is placed on creating a balance between physical and digital experiences. To facilitate varying work flows, solo work desks are coupled with break-out areas and a private meeting room. The sun-filled café combines a relaxed lounge, barista-style bar, and a common area which connects to the lush outdoor terrace. The two studio floors are linked by a feature staircase, lined in Scandinavian timber with a sculptural balustrade. Contempo’s upper level is a multi-purpose gallery and event space. Conceived as a platform to showcase creative talents, the gallery houses unique art pieces and sculptural works. Internal swing and sliding doors turn the space into a standalone venue for exhibitions and intimate dinners. Another highlight of the space is a striking display of products designed by the firm, set in the corner of the gallery with textured hunter green walls and speckled terrazzo floor. All fixed inventory was designed in-house, from shelves upholstered in special fabrics, cabinet systems built to suit the needs of designers, to details like the milled wood circular door handles. Craftsmanship and function inform the furniture selection, which comprise of contemporary classics and the studio’s bespoke designs.