When New Work specialists design a workspace for their own team, excellence is practically guaranteed – and here's the proof: the striking new offices of consulting firm combine, conceived by their in-house studio combine Design. Industrial grit meets refined aesthetics in a palette of warm, earthy tones that anchors the entire concept. Situated in a prime location near Königsallee within the historic Rheinisches Palais – a 1909 architectural masterpiece by Hermann vom Endt – these spaces make a statement from the moment you arrive.

Built for growth: with eight team members today and 320 m² of floor space, there's room to scale to at least 20 additional colleagues. The design philosophy hinges on one principle: "Hospitality is key," explains combine Design Managing Director Veit Knickenberg. This manifesto shaped every square meter – creating a space where both permanent staff and visiting collaborators feel welcomed and inspired to do their best work. "Our rooms embody our team's identity and the Rhineland's spirit of openness and creativity. Forget the traditional reception desk and magazine rack. Walk in, and you're immediately part of something larger," Knickenberg notes. The layout divides the space into four dynamic zones: an arrival area, central library, open workspace, and expansive lounge and workshop hub. Here, the interplay of wood, steel, stone, and textiles evokes a sophisticated lounge rather than a corporate office. Raw ceilings with exposed infrastructure are softened by coordinated grey acoustic panels, while glass and steel partitions – reminiscent of industrial lofts – contrast beautifully with refined carpentry details, warm timber flooring, and contemporary furniture. The centerpiece: a generous cafeteria featuring a custom wooden kitchen and striking black counter illuminated by vintage industrial pendants. Dark grey upholstered armchairs nestle beside light wood coffee tables, while a long communal table with minimalist steel-frame chairs and timber backs invites lingering conversations, casual meals, and spontaneous meetings.

www.combine-consulting.com

Photography Credits:

Yorick Carroux
www.yorickcarroux.tumblr.com

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 04|21)