Barry Callebaut

Office Design & Build

Of Chocolate, Culture and Collaboration at Barry Callebaut's Hybrid Singapore Office

About the Project

Client

Barry Callebaut

Industry

Food

Project Type

Office Renovation

Project Scope

Design & Build

Location

OUE Downtown, Singapore

Year

2021

Size

11,775 sq ft

A workplace of the future envisioned to anchor the company’s growth, innovation, and digitalization goals, Barry Callebaut's new Asia Pacific Headquarters in Singapore celebrates the company's rich heritage while looking ahead to the future.

The new office, located at OUE Downtown in the city's Central Business District, is a modern hub that drives connection and collaboration for the firm's hybrid workforce, grounded in Barry Callebaut’s mission to make sustainable chocolate the norm. It’s a welcoming and engaging space that captures the essence of the company and the well-being of its employees, who are empowered to work better, more creatively and more sustainably.

A Handcrafted Brand Experience

Visitors are greeted by a rich palette of chocolate hues, textures and fine detailing as they step into the reception and Chocolate Studio, a multi-sensory brand experience that tells the Barry Callebaut story, from bean to bar. From the unique curved features that resembles a cocoa bean, to artisanal touches and warm earthy tones used throughout the office, every element was carefully considered to reflect the company's brand and quality standards.

The new headquarters is also a reflection of Barry Callebaut's dedication to sustainability, with a range of energy-efficient measures and materials that are natural, renewable and low-emitting, giving employees a sense of connection to nature, while also providing acoustical comfort.

A Connected Hybrid Office

In line with Barry Callebaut's vision to drive innovation and sustainable growth, the new office marked a transition to a hybrid workplace, where employees are able to work from home or from the office, choosing the best setting for them.

The design of the office takes a people-centric approach: the open-plan layout fosters collaboration and flexibility, while the variety of settings – including focus areas, informal meeting spaces and phone booths – allow employees to find the right space for every task. Employees who work both from home and at office can connect and interact seamlessly in the space, thanks to digital tools that are integrated into the office design.