DB&B | Inspired by the warmth of Filipino heritage, Work.able 9F combines adaptable workspaces with hospitality-inspired design to create a flexible destination for work, collaboration and community.
DB&B | Designed as a fully adaptable coworking destination, Work.able’s 9F workplace accommodates individual work, collaboration, townhall sessions and social events within a single integrated setting. Operable partitions and multi-functional spaces allow the environment to be reconfigured throughout the day, supporting changing patterns of occupancy and interaction.
Adaptable spaces connect effortlessly through flexible, operable walls.
Drawing from elements of Filipino heritage, the design reinterprets familiar materials and textures through a contemporary lens. Terracotta tones inspired by traditional clay tiles are paired with woven details, patterned finishes and natural materials, creating a warm and welcoming backdrop for everyday use.
Rather than defining spaces through fixed functions, the design prioritises flexibility and shared experience, enabling the workplace to support both focused work and larger community gatherings while maintaining a distinct sense of place.
Distinctive Arrival
The workplace introduces a rich material palette inspired by traditional Vigan clay tiles, creating an environment that feels both welcoming and familiar. Earthy terracotta tones are complemented by Work.able’s signature blue and vibrant accents of orange, establishing a balanced visual identity that reflects local heritage and the dynamic energy of modern coworking.
Flexible coworking settings designed to support community interaction.
Spaces to Connect
Located adjacent to the reception, a variety of coworking environments accommodate different work styles and user preferences. Individual focus stations sit alongside collaborative settings that support interaction, teamwork and knowledge sharing throughout the day.
Operable glass partitions allow spaces to transform seamlessly between coworking zones, townhall venues, event spaces and social lounges. This adaptability enables the workplace to evolve alongside changing business, and community needs while maintaining a cohesive design language.
Contemporary furnishings and integrated amenities support informal meetings and everyday interaction.
The Community Lounge
Beyond the operable partitions lies the main social lounge, a vibrant setting where recreation and community come together naturally. Traditional Filipino materials including handcrafted Vigan tiles, Machuca flooring and woven solihiya details are reinterpreted through a contemporary lens, creating an environment that celebrates local craftsmanship while supporting modern coworking culture.
At the heart of the space are iconic Butaca Classic Chairs crafted from bamboo and rattan. Paired with marble-topped tables inspired by locally sourced Romblon marble, these elements introduce an authentic expression of Filipino heritage while contributing to a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the lounge connects to an adjoining gathering space through operable walls, allowing both environments to function independently or combine into a larger venue for events and shared experiences.
The adjoining lounge adopts a more contemporary character through modern seating, timber tables and integrated power points. Together, the two environments provide distinct yet complementary experiences that support gathering and social connection.
Woven textures and natural materials create a welcoming environment for conversation.
Culture and Connection
Beyond the main social lounge, an interactive gathering space introduces a playful interpretation of local culture. Bambike seating handcrafted from bamboo celebrates local innovation and sustainable craftsmanship, while the illuminated Padayon feature reinforces a spirit of perseverance and community.
A collaborative lounge draws inspiration from traditional Filipino dwellings through woven bamboo textures and amakan detailing. Designed for informal discussions and social engagement, the environment strengthens the workplace’s cultural narrative while encouraging meaningful connection between users.
Collaboration in Motion
A variety of collaboration settings are thoughtfully integrated throughout the workplace, supporting different modes of interaction and engagement. From informal discussions to team gatherings, these flexible settings encourage discussion and teamwork while reinforcing a strong sense of community.
Rest lounges provide users with a quiet retreat.
Crafted for Conversation
Each meeting room draws inspiration from local craftsmanship, cultural references and tropical landscapes. Woven textures, locally inspired motifs and bespoke lighting features create distinctive environments that enrich the meeting experience while reinforcing the project’s modern Filipino identity.
One featured meeting room takes inspiration from the traditional Filipino banig, celebrating native craftsmanship through textured patterns and locally inspired detailing. Sculptural lighting crafted from woven bamboo materials introduces warmth and authenticity while creating a memorable visual focal point.
Rest and Recharge
Supporting employee wellbeing, the rest lounge features comfortable double decker sleeping pods that provide users with a quiet retreat to recharge throughout the day. The space promotes wellness and balance while supporting the needs of a modern and flexible workforce.
An uplifting departure experience inspired by positivity, perseverance and community spirit.
A Lasting Impression
Towards the exit, woven bamboo-inspired lighting features and textured natural finishes continue the modern Filipino design narrative. A motivational LED installation transforms a familiar phrase into a playful message of encouragement, creating a memorable final impression that reinforces the workplace’s positive and community-focused character.
More than a coworking destination, Work.able 9F celebrates the richness of Filipino culture through contemporary interpretations of familiar materials, craftsmanship and social traditions. Designed to support gathering, exchange and community, the workplace offers an environment where people feel connected not only to each other, but also to the culture that inspired it.
Project: Work.able 9F @ GBF1
Location: Philippines
Project Size: 21,000 sqft
Design Studio: DB&B
Photo Credit: Kwatro Photography
Website: dbb.com
