Details
Ørsted transformed from a fossil-fuel-intensive organisation into the world's most sustainable company, claiming that title for three consecutive years. When translating this vision into their new Warsaw headquarters, they needed a physical space that proved their commitment. By implementing a rigorous circular design process inspired by the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) — plus a crucial fourth "R" (Rethink) — we created a highly agile, "less waste" environment. Combined with profound biophilic design, early implementations of neuroaesthetics, and brand aesthetics, this office emphasises innovation, optimism, and a deep respect for nature.
3600
Square meters of area
444
Employees
17
Months of work
1
A radical transformation
Ørsted’s journey is rooted in a powerful belief: our planet needs love, but love means absolutely nothing without action. Driven by this philosophy, the company underwent a massive, radical transformation. They completely shifted their operations, evolving from one of the most fossil-fuel-intensive energy companies in all of Europe into the most sustainable company in the world — a title they proudly claimed for three consecutive years. Today, Ørsted stands as the undisputed global market leader in offshore wind energy. Their overarching vision is to create a world that runs entirely on green energy. To honour this unprecedented corporate evolution, their new Polish headquarters needed to physically embody their uncompromising commitment to climate protection.

2
Rethinking the standard process
Translating Ørsted's sustainable vision into a physical space required a completely new approach to the work environment. The project pursued overarching strategic objectives: environmental friendliness, agility, and employee well-being. To achieve these goals, we relied on a rigorous circular design process inspired by the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) — plus a crucial fourth "R" (Rethink). Having previously completed a similar, less-waste project for another Nordic organisation, we knew that true sustainability requires redefining standard activities.


Waste or resource?
The process began with a highly detailed inventory of reusable materials — taking a holistic view of the entire lifecycle, from initial inventory to the final demolition plan. We constantly asked ourselves whether a material would be a waste or a resource at the end of the project's life cycle. By "rethinking" every step, the team minimised unnecessary decorative elements right from the spatial layout phase, requiring immense courage from the investor to break old corporate real estate patterns.

The aesthetic of wind
While sustainability drove the process, the visual narrative was heavily inspired by Ørsted's core element: the movement of wind particles. This invisible, dynamic force was beautifully translated into the physical space through custom wayfinding and space branding elements. The broader design language, however, remains deeply rooted in a modern Scandinavian aesthetic — clean, highly functional, uncluttered, and naturally calming.


3
Functional and Inclusive
The spatial layout was designed to seamlessly balance deep focus with active collaboration. Functionally, this meant providing the highest quality ergonomic workstations alongside immense acoustic comfort. The floorplan introduces multiple spaces for different activities, including an expansive open meeting area designed to gather the entire company. The built-in agility ensures the space can be rapidly reconfigured depending on the team's immediate needs.



Designing for everyone
Furthermore, the zoning is highly inclusive and supports people with disabilities through features like lowered kitchen worktops and widened walkways. A transparent layout with appropriately placed glazing maximises the ingress of natural sunlight throughout both the work and rest zones.




4
Less waste in practice
The architects, client, furniture suppliers, and developer worked intimately to reduce negative environmental impacts. All workstations were recovered from the previous office and meticulously refurbished. Furniture, glass, and ceilings were specifically sized to minimise cuttings and waste during installation, and a natural wood floor in the networking area was entirely saved from being milled.




Verified carbon footprints
To ensure true sustainability, the vast majority of flooring, ceilings, and soft seating were strictly verified on the basis of their carbon footprint. The breakdown of interior elements is rigorously eco-conscious:
- 100% of wall coverings are made of natural cork.
- Tabletops consist of 59% compressed PET plastic bottles, 29% natural wood, and 14% reclaimed furniture board.
- Hanging acoustic panels are crafted from eco-friendly felt, while wall panels are upcycled.
- Ceilings utilise wood wool, chairs are made from recycled PET, and carpets are certified bitumen-free.
- Furniture in common areas was sourced from local Polish manufacturers to reduce the transport carbon footprint.


5
Neuroscience in architecture
This project was driven by a desire to implement solutions that we would later define as neuroscience in architecture, or neuroaesthetics. We wanted the space to be experienced with all five senses. Instead of flat, corporate finishes, we introduced diverse, nature-inspired textures. The extensive use of natural cork, for example, isn't just eco-friendly — its 3D structure and mixed colour palette provide tactile engagement while serving a vital acoustic function. We also integrated beautiful gradient acoustic paintings and similar sensory-rich elements to naturally soothe the nervous system.

A breathing ecosystem
Biophilic design is not just a visual addition here; it is an omnipresent, living feature of the office. The space functions as a breathing ecosystem, housing 1,752 individual plants — which equates to nearly four plants per employee. This abundant greenery brings essential, calming contact with nature indoors, actively purifying the air and reinforcing the company's commitment to a green, thriving world on a daily basis.




6
Effective on every level
Designing in accordance with the circular economy was a joint success of the entire team. The project successfully reduced its environmental footprint while maintaining peak functionality and aesthetics. According to an internal survey, almost 70% of employees rated their overall impression of the office as very good, specifically praising the high level of ergonomics, common spaces, and relaxation areas. This sustainable approach strengthens employees' sense of belonging and creates the ideal conditions for shaping good environmental habits that carry over into their private lives.





Scope
Research
Design
Team
Board

Bogusz Parzyszek
CEO I Founder
Dominika Zielińska
Former Managing Partner, Workplace
Design
Aleksandra Czarnecka
Senior Architect
Małgorzata Romanowicz
Architect

Ewelina Jezierska-Podolska
Senior Architect
Paweł Deroń
3D Artist & Visualisation
Monika Pietrosian
Atchitect
Client
Ørsted
Suppliers & partners
Adam Grzesik
Photos
Damian Bieniek
space branding & wayfinding

