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HASSELL designs the new workplace for dtac, one of Thailand's leading telecommunication providers
Completed in September 2009, dtac House accommodates 3,500 staff occupying 62,000 sq m over 20 floors. The dtac corporate philosophy of ‘play and learn' is successfully reflected in the design, challenging conventional notions of arrival, meeting, concentration and relaxation spaces. This was the principal aim of the new workplace - to communicate the philosophy to both staff and visitors.
To support dtac's varied promotional activities, an extensive three-level open front-of-house atrium is linked by a new internal feature stairway. This provides a highly adaptable space, able to host a wide variety of client and staff events. Intensive project team and base building consultation and integration was required to achieve this structurally. The voluminous space and large void spans approximately eighty metres. Bridges are located within the void to maximise circulation and sight lines, while also concealing critical structural bracing.
Spaces are defined as volumes rather than by function, and the rich and varied use of local timbers for flooring, screening and ceiling battens provide direction and framework across this activity-based workplace.
The majority of materials and loose furniture were sourced locally. This was informed by both the client's aesthetic design direction and their preference to support Thai products and designers. Locally made cotton and silk fabrics were also used throughout the fitout.
The team-based environments encourage dtac staff to be mobile and creative in their choice of work space; whether at their workpoint, in a meeting lounge or on the open terrace overlooking Bangkok's skyline. Open workspaces supplemented with indoor plants, and the incorporation of a dedicated relaxation and fitness floor, further enhance staff amenity and promotes a healthy work environment.