This building was designed and constructed to serve as the architectural office of Inly Studio. The goal was to create a refreshed working environment that promotes happiness and productivity while also accommodating the future growth of our team. With a total usable area of 350 square meters, the office is located in a neighborhood close to educational institutions and tourist attractions. Although the area experiences heavy traffic, it is highly accessible. This makes privacy—and the ability to concentrate at work—a key design priority.
Several primary constraints guided our design approach:
• The building sits on leased land, so it needed to be designed for possible future dismantling and relocation.
• Local materials were prioritized for ease of sourcing and to ensure compatibility with the regional climate and context.
• The construction process had to be fast and cost-effective, with minimal material waste.
• Energy efficiency was a major consideration.
We opted for a simple site layout, positioning the building toward the rear of the plot to enhance privacy. A gravel courtyard at the front serves as a flexible activity space. A wooden slat fence, combined with a row of trees, forms a natural boundary that adds greenery and helps soften the atmosphere. Adjacent to the courtyard is a veranda that acts as a transitional space between inside and outside—a place to relax and a connector for indoor and outdoor activities.
We aimed to create a building that feels calm and unpretentious. To achieve this, we incorporated residential design elements into the concept. The architectural form is shaped by the roof geometry and the dimensions of the materials. Long roof eaves help reduce glare from natural light and allow the space to be used comfortably throughout the day.
Inside, the open-plan layout offers flexibility for changes in function, creating a sense of openness and visual connection throughout the space. Step levels help define zones without enclosing them, while glass partitions allow visibility between areas and maintain a sense of spaciousness. A central tree courtyard acts as a generous light well, bringing daylight and nature deep into the interior.
In terms of materials, while the primary structure is steel—chosen for ease of dismantling—we also placed strong emphasis on sustainability. Reclaimed wood from a demolished house was reused for the flooring. Plywood was used for ceiling panels, and offcuts from that process were repurposed into wall finishes.
Designing and building this office was not only about creating a space that met our practical needs, but also about enjoying the process of experimentation. We explored material possibilities, developed custom details, and worked through design challenges. Ultimately, the project reflects our collective identity as a team—a space that tells our story and welcomes everyone who steps inside.