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ECCO’s New Office Is a Modern Blend of Xi’an, Danish and Shoe Cultures

03.17.21 | By
ECCO’s New Office Is a Modern Blend of Xi’an, Danish and Shoe Cultures

The recently completed ECCO office in Xi’an China designed by HONG Designworks is a beautifully executed project that’s inspired by the rhythm and movement of nature. The modern office marries Xi’an and Danish cultures throughout each space, as well as integrates the shoe brand’s own culture through use of motifs and art. Let’s take a tour…

In the reception area, an undulating leather brick wall with various colors representing the distinct phases of leather making welcomes employees and visitors. The built-in leather bricks are actually gift boxes that can be taken away by visitors.

The waiting area is a mix of contemporary seating and features a photo of the wheat field next to ECCO’s Danish factory, giving a nod to the brand’s culture while also adding an element of nature to the space.

This private resting area is situated beside the reception area and features a hanging leather artwork made of ECCO’s leather materials inspired by Shaanxi shadow puppetry. The natural color and material palette of the room is echoed throughout the rest of the office.

The interpretation of blocks is a repeating motif, creating rhythm and contrast for a visually satisfying experience.

A grid display of hand-made adornments paying homage to shadow puppetry adorns the conference room wall.

A cantilevered wood desk hangs under a semi-enclosed ceiling and acts as a divider for circulation routes in this break area. Off next to it is the VIP lounge area which features a prime view of the historical Yongning Gate nearby, which was used in ancient times for welcoming guests. A wall of shoe lasts, a traditional shoe-making tool, decorates a backdrop wall and reiterates the brand’s history of shoe craftsmanship.

HONG Designworks utilized color, textures and materials to create a calm, inviting workspace that ditched the monotonous palette of traditional offices. Instead, the goal was to reinvigorate the senses through a visual experience and convey the various cultures at this modern office.

Photography by Tan Xiao / Studio Ten.
Video by Hua Sheng Studio.

As the Senior Contributing Editor, Vy Yang is obsessed with discovering ways to live well + with intention through design. She's probably sharing what she finds over on Instagram stories. You can also find her at vytranyang.com.