When a global investment firm in Singapore set out to unify teams across two offices, the challenge extended beyond relocation. The project became an opportunity to rethink how the workplace could better support talent attraction and retention, support evolving work patterns and create greater long-term value from the client’s real estate portfolio.
Through workplace analysis, stakeholder engagement and data-led planning, we helped shape a new headquarters that provides greater flexibility, accommodates future headcount growth, reflects our client’s commitment to sustainability and strengthens accessibility to support a diverse workforce
The project began with a broader review of the client’s workplace portfolio. Several scenarios were explored, including consolidating to one of the existing sites and relocating to a new building Through workplace analysis and stakeholder engagement, our team identified a consolidation in MBFC as the strongest long-term solution.
Bringing the workforce together under one roof improved operational connectivity, supported hybrid working and created a more efficient workplace model for future growth. Capacity increased while the footprint reduced.
Our data-led workplace strategy informed the consolidation into a higher-performing HQ, balancing cost, time and risk to support growth, efficiency and long-term portfolio value.
Before design began, our team analysed how employees worked across teams, roles and business units. Through leadership workshops, stakeholder interviews and employee surveys, we identified clear expectations for the future workplace.
Employees wanted greater flexibility, smoother hybrid collaboration and a workplace experience worth commuting for. As a result, those insights directly shaped the planning approach from the outset. A variety of work settings empowers individuals to choose how they work best, enhancing comfort and productivity.
The design introduced a broad mix of activity-based settings, including focus pods, flex rooms and discussion booths. Together, these spaces support different work modes throughout the day.
Through a comprehensive pilot program, employees were encouraged to provide feedback and actively shaped the environment, contributing to decisions on materials, furniture and artwork, and fostering a strong sense of ownership and belonging.
Our team managed an extensive change management program to support end-users through the transition to a new way of working, engaging employees in a co-creation process while guiding the organisation through six phases of move activities.
The workplace draws from the client’s Japanese heritage while reflecting the diversity of its Singapore workforce. Rather than applying cultural references superficially, the design focused on creating a more grounded and inclusive workplace experience.
Japanese influences appear through carefully crafted details and quieter spatial moments. Timber finishes, shoji-inspired screens, layered ceiling forms and a Zen garden introduce calm, precision and rhythm throughout the workplace. In parallel, Singapore’s multicultural identity informed the colour palette, social spaces and material expression, bringing greater warmth, energy and local relevance to the environment.
Sustainability and inclusion shaped the workplace from the earliest planning decisions. Consistent choices across materials, systems and spatial planning helped the project achieve LEED Gold certification.
Low-emitting, GreenGuard-certified materials support healthier indoor air quality throughout the workplace. Circular design principles also shaped several features, including tabletops made from recycled chopsticks and a community mural created from repurposed drink cans. Occupancy sensors, daylight sensors and indoor air quality monitoring further improve operational performance over time.
At the same time, inclusive design guides the workplace experience across every floor. Wide circulation routes, adjustable workstations, Braille signage, tactile wayfinding and gender-neutral bathrooms support a broader range of employee needs. The workplace also includes a VR wellness room and biophilic planting to promote everyday wellbeing.
The project created a more connected and adaptable workplace aligned with this confidential global investment firm’s long-term business priorities. By consolidating teams under one roof, the new headquarters improves operational connectivity, supports evolving work patterns and accommodates projected growth within a more efficient footprint.
The workplace now better supports both business performance and employee experience, while enabling greater long-term flexibility, efficiency and portfolio value.
Completed
2025
7,711 sq m / 83,000 sq ft
LEED Gold
Owen Raggett
