Bringing a multi-cultural brand history to life

Founded in 2014, Beam Suntory is the merging of the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer of Japanese whisky, giving the company more than 200 years of combined cultural history. We brought this meeting of two cultures to life through the new workplace design, which contains artwork that reflects symbolic elements from each brand. The reception mural is the centrepiece, with an etched copper design that draws on the brand’s origins and values to depict a tale of two cultures uniting as one.

A key objective for the design was to create a socially vibrant environment that expresses Beam Suntory’s brand mission of inspiring human connections. Our deep understanding of the company’s cultural heritage led to the design for a central front of house called the Ensō. Meaning ‘circle’ in Japanese, its curving form symbolises balance and connection in Zen philosophy and brings in sweeping views of Singapore. At the same time, the Ensō’s dynamic shape recalls wood barrels used in the production of whisky, honouring the company’s brand history. The natural look-and-feel is inspired by Japanese and American craft to form a welcoming environment for gathering over casual conversations, town hall meetings and wider company events.

Wellness was also key to the design, with the office featuring natural materials and biophilic design elements. Meeting rooms are concentrated in the core of the space to maximise daylight and city views. Environmental graphics reflect the company’s commitment to protecting water and the environment, creating harmony between people and nature.

As custodians of rich brand legacies, Beam Suntory encourages its staff to ‘unleash their spirit’ and lead the company’s entrepreneurial culture of “Yatte Minahare – Go For It!” by collaborating across departments and functions to drive innovation. The office design supports this with an open plan interspersed with breakout areas that encourage movement and interactions. Private booths and corner seats create space for private, focused work. On the whole, the office’s engaging storytelling journey establishes a visually creative and entrepreneurial environment, attracting talent and empowering teams to continue building meaningful brands.