After years in a largely technical environment, Crytek sought something more than just a workplace—a space that brings their own DNA to life. The Bad Homburg interior architecture firm Ninic was tasked with shaping this new chapter: they created what is known as a HEARTquarter, fostering creativity, dynamism, and cohesion while making the values achieve, empower, and envision tangibly experiential.

The space presented an immediate challenge: the rental footprint in Frankfurt's heart was narrow and deep, with limited natural light reaching many areas. Rather than accept these constraints, Ninic's designers turned light itself into their design strategy. It became the defining element—guiding orientation, shaping atmosphere, and anchoring the space's identity.

The design concept translates the world of gaming—the company's origin—into a contemporary workspace. Play and learning zones, retreat spaces, and communication areas merge into a flexible framework that encourages movement and interaction. Organic forms dissolve rigid hierarchies; modular structures enable change. Central to the concept is light design: linear fixtures and downlights create rhythm throughout the space, guiding the eye intuitively and defining zones—from focused work niches to open collaboration areas. In interior zones, carefully calibrated light colors produce a daylight effect that supports circadian rhythms and enhances wellbeing. Light here is understood not as a technical necessity, but as an emotional medium: it both energizes and calms, creating orientation and depth. Materiality and tactile qualities complement the interplay of light and space. Floor surfaces with natural textures subtly transition from one zone to another, while timber slats, glass partitions, and acoustic elements unite structure and transparency. Strategic greenery introduces vibrant accents and creates small islands of nature within the urban density.

www.teamninic.de
www.nataschaninic.de

Photos:
Lars Gruber
www.larsgruber.de

(Published in CUBE Frankfurt 04|25)