project details
Client: Hong Leong Asia
Location: Singapore City, Singapore
Size: 8,000 sq. ft.
Project Completion: 2022
Scope: Design Consultancy
Industry: Conglomerate
Collective Members: Paperspace Asia, Graphite, Mlab, Stoked
project summary
Hong Leong Asia Ltd (HLA), part of the Singapore-based Hong Leong Group, has been a key player in the region’s economic growth since being listed on the Singapore Exchange in 1998. Originally a building materials supplier, HLA has evolved into a diversified multinational known for its market leadership and financial strength.
As HLA looks ahead, they are focused on addressing the evolving needs of customers and global trends, with key themes like embodied carbon and new energy economics shaping their direction. Aligned with their long-term goals, HLA’s new vision centres on close collaboration with customers to deliver sustainable, innovative urban solutions for the future, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability and supply chain resilience.
To support this vision, Hong Leong Asia tapped Paperspace to design a workspace that not only honours the company’s rich legacy but also marks the transition to a new generation of leadership. This workspace reflects HLA’s forward-thinking approach, creating a bridge between their proud history and an innovative, sustainable future.
the challenge
HLA faced a cultural shift as they transitioned towards a more open, collaborative work environment. This change raised concerns among stakeholders about the loss of privacy due to open workspaces, glass-walled meeting rooms, and open breakout areas. However, the previous office setup, with excessive rooms, high cubicles, and heavy wood panelling, blocked natural light creating a dim, enclosed environment that didn’t meet the needs of a modern workspace. The challenge was to strike a balance through design—addressing privacy concerns while ensuring a healthy, open work environment.
the solution
Paperspace approached the design by celebrating and honouring HLA’s rich family legacy and core values, such as tradition, bonds, and legacy. A key element was integrating HLA’s unique historical artwork collection into the front-of-house spaces, creating an experience that allows visitors and staff to appreciate the company’s heritage. A shared breakout and town hall area were introduced to foster meaningful gatherings among executives and staff, reinforcing the family-oriented culture.
The open working environment was designed to encourage brainstorming and collaboration, addressing the cultural shift towards more flexible workstyles. Industrial elements were incorporated into the design, reflecting HLA’s roots as one of Singapore’s largest suppliers of building materials, but with a refined, modern touch. Collaboration with art specialists and graphic designers ensured that legacy arts and memorabilia were thoughtfully placed, especially in the founder’s room lounge and key corridors, preserving the company’s story.
The overall design not only honours HLA’s legacy but also marks the transition to a new generation of leadership, paving the way for future growth.
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