connecting city context, brand identity and wellbeing through adaptable design
As workplace expectations continue to evolve, workspaces are shifting from static environments to dynamic platforms for collaboration, culture and growth. The refurbishment of the Henkel Management Centre in Shanghai — the company’s Asia-Pacific and Greater China headquarters — responds to this transformation.
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Inspired by the city and centred on people, the design establishes a flexible workplace that supports contemporary modes of working while anticipating future change.
A Design Grounded in the City
Shanghai is a city of contrasts, where vertical skylines sit alongside historic neighbourhoods and global ambition meets local identity. The design draws on this duality, merging the clarity of contemporary urban form with the human scale of the city’s historic fabric.
Henkel has been present in Shanghai since the late 1990s, underscoring the city’s strategic role within its global network. The renewed workplace recognises this legacy, linking the company’s history in China with its evolving regional future.
Spatial Layout Inspired by Local Culture
Linear and grid patterns, distilled from Shanghai’s urban morphology, form the project’s core design language. The linear expression reflects the city’s high-density skyline, emphasising movement and efficiency, while the grid draws from the rhythm of historic lane houses to reinforce order and stability.
Applied strategically throughout the building, public levels prioritise linear continuity to foster open interaction, while typical office floors adopt a stronger grid logic to support focus and clarity. Together, they create a cohesive yet layered workplace experience. Public spaces are designed for adaptability, supporting informal collaboration and team gatherings. Work zones balance connection and focus, enabling the workplace to evolve with changing organizational needs.
Embedding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Aligned with Henkel’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, the workplace prioritises openness, accessibility and choice. A variety of spatial settings supports different working styles and individual preferences, fostering cross-team exchange while enabling autonomy and comfort.
This inclusive planning approach ensures the space welcomes a broad spectrum of users and encourages meaningful interaction across the organisation.
Brand Expression Through Experience
Brand identity is expressed through spatial experience rather than overt display. Controlled use of colour and proportion integrates Henkel’s character into the environment. Signature tones and dichroic glass elements add visual recognition.
Shared spaces and walls operate as evolving communication platforms, enabling the workplace to actively support cultural storytelling and internal dialogue.
Health, Sustainability and Long-Term Value
Material selection is guided by durability, comfort and environmental responsibility. Natural textures balance performance with warmth, while integrated acoustic and lighting strategies enhance overall wellbeing.
The project has achieved WELL Platinum Certification, reinforcing its commitment to health, sustainability and long-term value.
The renewal of the Henkel Management Centre is more than a refurbishment. It is designed to support collaboration, resilience and continued growth, and is a strategic repositioning of workplace as a connector between people, culture and city.