Withers KhattarWong
Redefining Legal Workspaces: Designing for Tomorrow's Law Firm
Balancing form and function to deliver a brand experience
Project Overview
The primary objective for Withers KhattarWong's Singapore office was to create an inclusive and functional space that emphasises collaboration, innovation, inclusion, and community impact. The design needed to reflect the firm’s evolution, moving away from the traditional, rigid law firm environment to embrace a more open and hybrid working style.
To support this transition, we held workshops with stakeholders to better understand their needs and gather the necessary facts and figures. This allowed us to plan the office space more effectively, ensuring that it met the specific requirements of the firm.
A key aspect of the design was spatial efficiency, particularly as the firm was right-sizing its office space. We carefully optimised each area for functionality and utility, incorporating versatile elements such as a large meeting room in the client area that can be converted into an event space. This flexibility enhances the firm's ability to engage with clients in various settings.
In keeping with a focus on well-being, we integrated Biophilia throughout the office, fostering a connection to nature that promotes a calming atmosphere and supports overall wellness for both clients and staff.
The office design also embraces a neighbourhood setting, strategically positioned near amenities and with thoughtful overlap between different areas to facilitate interaction. A booking system for desks ensures availability when staff return to the office, and the space is tailored to accommodate different work types across the firm.
Reflecting the firm’s flat hierarchy, the design features unassigned, bookable offices of uniform size, underscoring their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The office layout includes two distinct journeys: one for clients, leading to all areas accessible to visitors, and another for employees, ensuring that internal spaces maintain the privacy and confidentiality essential in a legal setting.
The new office space for Withers KhattarWong successfully bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, offering a versatile environment that supports the firm’s dynamic way of working. It stands as a testament to the firm’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community impact while staying true to its legacy of over 125 years of legal excellence.
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