Anomaly's Apex coworking space in London's King's Cross area showcases a unique blend of textures and materials, designed to create a welcoming and comfortable environment. The space, a collaboration between Anomaly and Bennetts Associates, aims to offer a refreshing contrast to traditional, harsh office interiors. The design philosophy revolves around creating a space that feels inviting and functional, with a focus on tactile, natural elements.
The centerpiece of the workspace is a welcome desk crafted from rammed earth, a material that Anomaly's head of interior design, Lucy Hillyer-Riley, describes as "readable." The desk's dusty pink, brown, and orangey hues are a result of natural pigments and aggregates, compacted to form a solid, monolithic structure. This unique material choice adds a sense of warmth and individuality to the space.
The design team initially planned to use earthwork from the site excavation, but faced constraints. Hillyer-Riley explains that rammed earth's natural variations and layers make it a fascinating material. The process of building it up with natural pigments and aggregates, compacted to form a solid form, results in a one-of-a-kind creation, perfect for a building with its own distinct identity.
The space transitions to a cafe area with chocolatey brown hues, featuring Wishbone chairs and marble-topped tables. The flooring introduces a cooler element with its terrazzo grey finish, contrasting the panelled wood behind the coffee counter. The color palette draws inspiration from the canal frontage, maximizing natural light and long sightlines.
Work and meeting areas are designed with a homely feel, featuring communal tables and chairs upholstered in leather and upholstery. Hillyer-Riley highlights the choice of leather, which adds softness and comfort, particularly in seating. The material's ability to wear in rather than wear out makes it a practical and long-lasting choice.
Texture plays a significant role in the overall design. Softer seating, layered materials, and generous planting create a comfortable atmosphere, balancing the hardiness of the existing building. The goal is to enhance workers' well-being and create a space that encourages repeated use and enjoyment.
Co-working spaces have gained immense popularity in recent years, especially post-pandemic, as global working patterns have become more diverse. Anomaly's Apex space stands out for its innovative use of materials and textures, offering a refreshing take on office interiors. The design invites users to engage with the space, fostering a sense of ease and familiarity, and providing a positive impact on workers' overall experience.
