BASF Digital Farming

Client: BASF Digital Farming GmbH

Location: Cologne

Realisation: 2019

Execution: Bücker Raumkonzepte GmbH

Photos: Joachim Grothus

Office meets landscape

The start-up BASF Digital Farming GmbH develops under the xarvioTM brand digital applications for the agricultural markets. When designing a new working environment for the company in Cologne’s Rheinauhafen, brandherm + krumrey interior architecture took up the theme of digital farming. The combination of open and closed workspaces with informal meeting areas reflects the structure of an abstract rural environment.

The company BASF Digital Farming GmbH is based in one of the Crane Houses in Cologne’s Rheinauhafen. The design of the approx. 1,900-square-metre office space was guided by the contrast between the latest digital tools and topics such as nature and country life. On the other hand, the special location in the Rheinauhafen with its magnificent views of the city and river was also to be emphasised. On this basis, brandherm + krumrey created a wide range of spatial solutions. Like the private and public parts of a traditional village, spacious areas for meetings and informal encounters alternate with open-plan workspaces and focus areas for concentrated activities. In between, lounge-like seating arrangements in front of the large panoramic windows offer views of the Rhine. The charming contrast between technical and rural elements is dominant in the choice of colours and materials as well. In contrast to the rather rough industrial charm of the entire area, wall surfaces designed to zone the focus areas are in bright colours or made of natural materials such as wood and straw. Large room dividers with acoustically effective surfaces made of felt and other textiles in warm, appealing shades create a likewise homely impression. The guiding interior design idea is applied right down to the details. For example, the area of the cafeteria, which functions as a “marketplace”, is structured with specially designed room dividers made of steel frames and expanded metal grids. Their industrial look is contrasted by tall plants and custom-made lamps that look like electric flowers. The interior design impressively reflects the corporate identity — between technology and nature, between traditional structures and ultra-modern methods.