- Location: Moscow, Russia
- Total Area: 69,700 sq. m
- Lobby Area: 5,647 sq. m
- Design Firm: Babayants Architects
Babayants Architects has designed the public spaces of the FRAME workplace, focusing primarily on the grand lobby of this modern glass office tower. Spanning 69,700 square meters, the project is set to redefine premium business environments within the urban quarter of Republic, offering a seamless blend of architectural innovation and functional elegance.
Architectural Concept: Defining Space Through Portals
The FRAME workplace boasts high ceilings and a distinctive double-sided permeability, enhancing spatial fluidity. The architects approached the design from an unconventional perspective—working with an elongated room punctuated by a series of structural columns. This spatial framework inspired a visual concept based on a sequence of portals that delineate functional zones within the lobby. These architectural frames serve as focal points, creating a dynamic interplay between structure and perception.
Materiality and Color: The Impact of Terracotta
A defining feature of FRAME workplace is its bold use of terracotta, an earthy hue that radiates warmth and depth. Visible from the street, this striking color forms a visual dialogue with the surrounding historical buildings constructed of red brick, reinforcing the site’s contextual significance. The choice of terracotta is both aesthetic and symbolic, linking the contemporary tower to Moscow’s architectural heritage.
Complementing this dominant color, natural stone surfaces introduce texture and authenticity to the design. The contrast between the rigid geometric structure and the organic quality of stone creates an unexpected emotional resonance within a corporate setting. This interplay of solidity and vibrancy enhances the spatial experience, making the lobby not only functional but also artistically engaging.
Integrated Design Elements: Café and Elevator Zones
The first floor seamlessly integrates a café, echoing the refined design language of the lobby. The counter features sleek rectangular forms, framed by layered portals illuminated to enhance spatial depth. This thoughtful integration fosters a cohesive environment where visitors can socialize, conduct brief meetings, or work in a relaxed setting.
In the high-rise tower, the elevator area is a pivotal design feature. The elevator wall is clad in metal with vertical stripes in glowing terracotta, reflecting light and reinforcing the overall color scheme. A statement wall of natural stone further enhances the luxurious yet contemporary aesthetic, merging industrial precision with organic sophistication.
A Landmark Lobby for a Premium Business Environment
More than a transitional space, the lobby of FRAME workplace serves a representational role, shaping first impressions of the companies within. Its uniqueness lies in its memorability—inviting occupants and visitors to engage with the space in a meaningful way. Whether used for brief meetings, waiting for colleagues, or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, the lobby is designed to facilitate productivity while offering an immersive architectural experience.
