- Project Name: 485 MetaGalaxy
- Location: Shanghai, China
- Area: 300 m²
- Completion Time: August 2023
- Design Team: 485 MetaGalaxy
- Chief Designer: Zhang Yaotian
- Design Members: Zhang Yaotian, Ao Jing, Cai Zhongyi, Han Lei, Hu Wenru, Li Cong, Li Muzhi, Su Yang, Wen Chao, Wang Yiyun, Zhang Jianwu, Xu Mingxuan, Li Chengmo
- Photographer: Tan Xiaozhong
- Design Concept: Fusion of nostalgia and modernity, open space for collaboration and creativity
- Key Elements: Eclectic decor, functional design, integration of Eastern and Western styles, community-focused workspace
Located in Shanghai’s historical district, 485 MetaGalaxy serves as both a design studio and a cultural hub, fostering a cross-professional ecosystem where creativity and innovation are central. Designed by the 485 MetaGalaxy collective and led by Chief Designer Zhang Yaotian, this 300 m² office space blends nostalgia with modernity, embracing both the old and the new, the East and the West. This unique space is designed to inspire spontaneous conversations, collaboration, and the birth of new ideas.
A Journey from Nostalgia to Modernity
The 485 MetaGalaxy office is set within an old residential area in Shanghai. The entrance is marked by a rustic wooden gate, leading into a courtyard and an outdoor terrace. Preserved elements, such as old wine bottles and a mud-and-lime exterior wall, evoke a sense of timelessness, grounding the space in its historical context. The office cleverly integrates two old buildings into a cohesive space, retaining much of the original character while introducing contemporary design elements.
The design concept blends nostalgia and modernity, creating a design utopia where simplicity meets the future. It’s a place where work, creativity, and communication flow seamlessly, with open spaces encouraging spontaneous interaction.
Creating an Inclusive and Dynamic Atmosphere
The space is meticulously designed to evoke a sense of warmth and community. Soft rugs, diverse chairs, and eclectic decor items from around the world tell individual stories, while the original Art Deco fireplace blends with the space’s modern accents. Green plants dot the space, adding an element of comfort and freshness. The central water bar serves as a gathering point, bringing together different groups from various design disciplines. With its striking red and mirrored elements, the bar seamlessly integrates the diverse functions of the office while maintaining a visually captivating focal point.
The design philosophy is all about blending different materials and elements, creating a space that encourages both work and leisure. Every item, though not necessarily priceless, carries meaning, contributing to the warmth and vibrancy of the space.
Function Meets Art in a Boundary-Breaking Space
The layout of 485 MetaGalaxy allows for an open, inclusive atmosphere, with spaces that serve as both workstations and relaxation zones. The office area contrasts with the front section of the building, where exposed walls, weathered beams, and original gray floor tiles convey a sense of raw authenticity. This unadorned space reflects the boundary-breaking spirit of the designers, encouraging experimentation and new ideas.
In the principal’s office, bold design elements, including fan-shaped wooden doors and block storage units, reflect a fusion of Eastern and Western design principles. The combination of vibrant decor items further illustrates the concept of “reality and illusion,” inviting visitors and workers to engage with the space in a dynamic and fluid manner.
A Space for Creative Growth and Innovation
485 MetaGalaxy is more than just an office—it’s a creative incubator where new ideas are nurtured and old boundaries are shattered. The integration of various design elements, from rustic textures to modern lighting and decor, reflects a commitment to innovation and breaking traditional design constraints. The space encourages visitors and designers to challenge the norms, try new approaches, and embrace an evolving vision of creativity.
The office’s design is not just about aesthetics; it’s a conceptual space that supports the growth of ideas, allowing them to flourish in an open and collaborative environment. It’s a hub where East and West, old and new, come together to inspire the next generation of designers.
485 MetaGalaxy isn’t just a physical office—it’s a living, breathing testament to the power of design to inspire, innovate, and break boundaries. It embodies the spirit of creativity and collaboration, offering a space where imagination is free to roam and new ideas are born.
