METROPOLITAN TERRACE GARDEN

Metropolitan Terrace Garden. Office relaxation zone on 700 sq. m.

Beautiful views of Pilsudski Square and Saski Park are a huge asset. They convinced a prestigious law firm to choose the Metropolitan building for its headquarters. After the interior design, it was the turn of the two spacious roof terraces. Our task was to create a space that would meet the standards of the place.

Challenges. Unusual shape and mobility

The task was difficult because of the unusual shape of the space being arranged. We also had to meet the board’s strict guidelines:

• No interference: We could not interfere with the existing pavement.
• Mobility: the equipment had to be movable.
• Functionality: It was necessary to set aside annexes for talks, event space and an outdoor work area.

Functional layout. Informal zones

We decided to divide the space informally. Instead of walls, we used distances and greenery in pots.

• Nodal point: In the widest part of the terrace we placed a lounge set under a spreading umbrella.
• Conversation Annexes: Along the glazed offices, we have separated intimate zones. We positioned them across the terrace. In this way, we avoided the situation of looking into each other’s eyes with employees inside the office. Instead, we provided a view of the Warsaw skyline.

Design to size. Furniture and openwork pots

We designed all the pots and furniture ourselves. They are elegant, but adapted for working with a laptop, not just lying down.

• Openwork pots: This is our original design. Their design reflects the decorations inside the office. They are illuminated at night, and the light oozing through the holes brings the floor to life.
• Oval pots with seating: In the narrow “ends” of the terraces (where standard furniture did not fit), we designed pots with saplings. Their shape allows them to be used as benches.

Greenery and privacy

From Pilsudski Square, the terrace borders another office. To ensure complete discretion, we placed a row of simple white pots with tall hornbeams. These provided anonymity and created a secluded corner for focused work overlooking the inner patio of the Metropolitan building.

Project data

• Location: Warsaw, Metropolitan Building (Pilsudski Square)
• Area: 700 m²
• Project year: 2017
• Design team: arch. Agnieszka Lecyk, country arch. Piotr Porębowicz