Suntory Global Spirits’ 13,000-square-foot office embodies the brand’s premium identity, creating a collaborative and flexible workspace designed for 150 employees to enhance teamwork and innovation.
A world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits has long been celebrated for its craftsmanship and storied heritage. This legacy inspired the design of their new office, where every element reflects the brand’s essence. The concept creates a space that embodies the sophistication of Suntory Global Spirits’ portfolio while fostering collaboration, innovation, and an exceptional employee experience.
The space invites all with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Rich wood finishes and artisanal details reflect the craftsmanship behind each bottle, while modern design elements add a contemporary touch. Biophilic features like indoor greenery and natural materials enhance the environment, promoting wellness and creativity.
The Sustainable Vision
At the concierge area, the lush green wall brings a touch of nature indoors, creating a calming and inviting ambience. The greenery fosters a sense of well-being and purifies the air, offering a refreshing environment for employees and guests. The concierge area is transformed into a beacon of sustainability, aligning with the company’s commitment to the environment.
A Brand Journey
The design of an experiential walkway at the entrance of Suntory Global Spirits’ office offers an immersive glimpse into the meticulous art of whiskey-making. The vision was to create an exciting, illuminating space where the brand’s extraordinary craftsmanship and rich story come to life.
Inspired by the harmonious blend of Japanese and American craft traditions, the walkway incorporates tactile wooden barrels and a dynamic video mural that showcases an expansive display of the company’s history,
processes, and product offerings. This interactive installation engages the senses, providing a narrative that captures the essence of the brand’s heritage. Visitors embark on a visual journey through time, exploring the rich traditions that inform their approach to whiskey-making.
Designed as a sensory experience, the walkway features ambient lighting that shifts to reflect the whiskey-making process, guiding visitors from creation to final product. Soft, warm lights illuminate the early stages, evoking comfort, while brighter tones represent the distillation phase, symbolising energy and transformation.
This thoughtful integration of design enhances the experience, immersing guests in the rich legacy and artistry of Suntory Global Spirits. As visitors journey through, they are enveloped in an atmosphere that reflects the meticulous craftsmanship behind each bottle, allowing them to feel the evolution of whiskey-making.
Heritage Grounded, Design Elevated
One of the office’s standout features is the Enso bar, designed to inspire conversations and social interactions. Its aesthetic blends the company’s rich heritage with contemporary touches, creating a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere.
The bar showcases a striking Japanese-inspired trellis pattern, complemented by a pendant light adorned with washi paper, honouring traditional craftsmanship with modern flair. Natural timber and stone materials, along with a vintage mirror ceiling, add depth and elegance. The wooden ceiling features studs that nod to wooden barrels, while a lower counter height is designed for intimate tasting events. Flexible seating options adapt for various gatherings.
DB&B’s teams handcrafted the armrests, ensuring comfort and luxury. Sleek lighting elements illuminate the intricate details of the spirits collection, enhancing the bar’s aesthetic.
The Enso bar serves as a dynamic centrepiece, inviting employees and visitors to connect, share stories, and celebrate the artistry of whiskey, fostering meaningful interactions and collaboration.
Fluid Spaces
Equipped with a variety of work settings, the work area is tailored around the concept of fluidity to ensure an organic flow. From private nooks to collaborative break-out areas, the energetic environment supports hybrid working and teamwork.
Departing from the conventional reception set-up, a concierge area was designed to double up as a reception counter to foster social interaction.
Extending the interior concept, the carpets connecting the bar and office mimic flowing water, aligning seamlessly with the concept of fluidity.
Meeting rooms are designed for both functionality and aesthetics, featuring curved acoustic panels that symbolise fluidity and patterns inspired by Japanese designs.
The office includes imaginative casual spaces, with lockers showcasing Suntory Global Spirits brands and a breakout room featuring a vibrant graphic wall that highlights the company’s corporate values, encouraging deeper engagement with its philosophy.
A mural artwork adds personality, reflecting the meeting of East and West cultures and the company’s commitment to diversity and connection.
Project: Suntory Global Spirits
Location: Singapore
Design Studio: DB&B
Photo Credit: Focal Collective
Website: dbb.com
