Where History Meets Innovation
An interior concept blending modern design with the heritage of a former soap factory's office spaces
The SV Group, a leading catering and hotel management company, has established its new headquarters in the historic Düsseldorf soap factory. For the office spaces within this distinctive 1950s building, the consulting and design firm pro m2, under the direction of interior architect Nazanin Malek, created an interior concept that seamlessly bridges heritage and contemporary design. The spaces welcome both clients and staff with the unmistakable imprint of the SV Group's brand identity. Red—the company's signature color—serves as a bold accent throughout. As Malek explains: "By layering different shades of red alongside striking materials like ceramic tile and terrazzo, we've created a distinctive environment that captures the essence of culinary excellence and hospitality."
At the heart of the design sits the Market Place—a dynamic hub that unites a coffee bar, catering kitchen, and lounge zones into one cohesive environment. Here, employees and visitors naturally converge to experience the company's culture of enjoyment and community. The concept was deliberately crafted to evoke emotion while addressing the specific needs of every user. The diverse work settings—each balancing functionality with inspiration—foster collaboration, engagement, and creative thinking among team members.
Understanding that the shift from individual offices to open-plan layouts requires thoughtful transition, the design incorporates abundant quiet zones where employees can focus undisturbed. Before the move, the company partnered with pro m² on the #wemove initiative—a comprehensive program encompassing real estate strategy, workplace consulting, change management, and construction project oversight. Through a series of workshops, staff actively shaped decisions about their new spaces, ensuring the final solution truly reflected the organization's unique culture and needs.
Photography:
Jan Kaiser
(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 03|24)