Trust Petroleum 办公室 | Irzhanova Interiors | 2024 | 哈萨克斯坦

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This project is not Darina Irzhanova’s first venture into office design. Her experience and creative vision ensured its success, giving her the freedom to fully realise her ideas.

Author highlights the unique location of the project, offering a bit of historical context before diving into the details:

The office is situated in one of the most recognisible buildings in Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana – the administrative complex of JSC NC KazMunayGas. Built in 2002, this complex was among the first architectural landmarks on the city’s left bank, marking Astana’s transformation into Kazakhstan’s new political and economic hub. The complex was designed as part of the “Round Square in the city of Astana” architectural ensemble, giving it a distinct significance within the city’s urban landscape.

Before diving into the transformation, it’s important to understand the starting point of the project:

The office space spans 350 square meters and features radial walls, echoing the round architectural style of the entire complex. It was previously occupied by another company, and the old interior felt outdated in a modern context: Armstrong ceilings, linoleum flooring, and a layout fragmented into numerous small offices. The windows were covered with protective film further darkening the space.

Designer’s primary goal was to unlock the room’s full potential, transforming it into a bright, spacious, and modern workplace. She also aimed to soften the excessive curvature of the walls to create a more balanced environment. The entire process, from concept to completion, took just over five months.

The redevelopment was extensive. Almost all partitions were removed, revealing an unexpected bonus: over a meter of additional height hidden above the suspended ceilings. This allowed the ceilings to be raised to an impressive 4.5 meters, significantly enhancing the sense of openness and comfort of both employees and visitors.

Darina’s design concept combined an open-plan office with several standalone rooms, reflecting a modern approach to workspace layout. The interior needed to be functional, and comfortable for everyone who used it, as well as reflect the modern standards of interior design.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a welcoming area decorated with veneered panels and natural Rosso Levanto marble. The walls are finished with a suede-textured decorative plaster. The space’s openness, the thoughtfully chosen furniture, and a decorative stand with art pieces at the entrance subtly introduce visitors to the core concept of the office.

A corridor leads deeper into the office, its ceiling features a skylight window that bathes the space with soft, diffused light. Along this corridor is the conference room. It was important for the author to convey a sense of modernity and technology here. It features glass partitions, stainless steel wall panels, and a large circular transom that offers a view of the open-plan area, enhancing the sense of transparency and spaciousness.

At the end of the corridor lies the director’s office, a space decorated with natural materials such as veneer, marble, and sisal wall coverings. The layout is carefully designed to ensure both convenience and discretion. A standout feature is a recessed display stand integrated into a wooden structure, showcasing art objects illuminated by spotlights – creating a focal point within the room. In the mornings, the rising sun bathes the office in warm light, accentuating the cozy, refined atmosphere.

Main Working Area: The heart of the office is an expansive open-plan area with 18 workstations. To address the challenge of the curved walls, Darina used veneered wooden panels to create smooth, continuous lines, hiding radiators and contributing to a cohesive design. At the far end of the open space is the kitchen, designed as a cozy retreat for employees. A bar counter is integrated into the existing columns, while a light window provides soft, natural lighting. Wicker partitions add warmth and balance, blending lightness with coziness. Adjacent to the kitchen is a flexible workspace designed for employees who only occasionally work in the office. A wooden table transforms standard veneered panels into functional workstations.

In just five months, this office underwent a dramatic transformation. What was once a dim, fragmented space has been reborn as a bright, spacious and modern workplace. The new design seamlessly integrates aesthetic appeal with functionality, while also prioritising the comfort and wellbeing of those who use it.