Inside Steelcase's redesigned Learning + Innovation Center

Steelcase’s Learning + Innovation Center (LINC) in Munich is a laboratory for new ideas, products and spaces. Since it was set up six years ago it has become a vibrant international hub attracting employees, partners and customers from across Europe, the Middle East and Africa and it is here where many of Steelcase’s workplace product and interior innovations have been born.

Adept at responding to the evolution of our society and its demands, this year the LINC went through an innovation of its own. 'It was time to challenge our initial assumptions and rethink what a Learning + Innovation Center needs to do in the hybrid era,' says Carlos Gonzalez, EMEA Steelcase Learning team leader.

The redesign has seen the footprint of the centre reduced, but connections, vibrancy and accessibility increased. Urban planning inspired ‘interconnected neighbourhoods’ and ‘shared attractors’ (spaces such as single-person video call rooms or social zones which anyone can use) – all contributing to ‘untapped potential synergies’.

Co-design workshops brought up problems to be solved; from occupancy fluctuation, technology fatigue and the need for commute-inspiring vibrancy. In response, adaptable shared overflow neighbourhoods; acoustic desk ‘shelters’ for privacy; and a large communal table for special social events.

Curious to see the LINC in action? Consider this your personal invitation from Steelcase to experience its fantasy hybrid workplace come true.

© Architonic

Head to the Architonic Magazine for more insights on the latest products, trends and practices in architecture and design.