AstraZeneca HQ MIND District Milano, an experiential environment that's dynamic, flexible and cutting-edge

AstraZeneca's new offices are located in Milan in the innovative MIND Village, the area of the Milan Innovation District where the Expo 2015 buildings are being converted according to circular economy principles. We realised the project by applying the principles of sustainable design and construction with the aim of achieving LEED Interior Design + Construction GOLD certification. Our aim was also to create through design not only a workplace but an experiential environment - in total harmony with the surrounding urban context - that was dynamic, flexible and cutting-edge, where people could feel comfortable and interact spontaneously with each other. The re-functionalisation works have given new life to an old pavilion of the former Expo 2015 area, of which the internal load-bearing wooden structures that define the DNA of the project and the entire space have been preserved and enhanced. The existing shell offers a beautiful space on two levels, with a strong relationship between indoor and outdoor areas. A living and regenerating place that is characterised by the abundant use of biophilia, natural materials and the introduction of organic architectural forms into the spaces that create a sense of well-being and fluidity to enhance the relationship between man and nature. For the project concept, Tétris was inspired by the constant need for wellbeing of the human body and mind to express through design the philosophy mens sana in corpore sano. A concept that, taking its cue from the various types of emotions that the mind can perceive by moving fluidly in space, is reproduced in the interiors with the creation of multifunctional work areas with a flowing mobility that underlines the idea of a connected and vibrant environment. Each environment stimulates the five senses differently and, by incorporating different materials, textures, furnishings and colours, allows people to enjoy multiple experiences within a single space. Biophilia is the real star of the project and creates a link with the surrounding context by connecting the outside with the inside. The outdoor area that runs along the entire perimeter of the building becomes one with the interior thanks to the inclusion of natural elements: the large wall with live greenery that acts as a backdrop to the reception area, the plants suspended from the ceiling and the flower boxes integrated into the furnishings promote acoustic and visual comfort, improving air quality and creating a climate of well-being and regeneration for the mind and body. Entering the spaces, flooded with natural light that penetrates through the large windows, one immediately perceives a feeling of tranquillity and calm but at the same time of conviviality, interaction and belonging. The entrance is manned by a "green" reception desk that, like a filter, receives and moves the flows of the entire building. On the ground floor, the social area is the beating heart of the entire building. The entrance is manned by a green reception that, like a filter, receives and moves the flows of the entire building and accompanies people in a large area for socialising and spontaneous interaction. A large central break area recreates the atmosphere of a real cafeteria. Different types of tables and seating allow the space to be used in an open and flexible manner. Continuing on we find a more intimate area, with operating spaces dedicated to certain functions and meeting rooms, culminating in the concentration area. This space is designed to recall the atmosphere of a library; a quiet, distraction-free refuge with individual stations for concentration activities and small rooms where one can disconnect and relax on comfortable rocking chairs. On the other side of the building is the celebration area; a large flexible space that can be subdivided into up to four smaller rooms if required. Packable partitions and lounge furniture allow for agile use of the space, which can be easily reconfigured to host corporate events and training or meeting activities. The upper floor is dedicated to operational activities and individual work. Employees are invited to choose from a variety of work areas: collaborative zones, pods for individual concentration, phone booths for phone calls, focus rooms and small informal lounge areas for conversation. There is no lack of traditional workstations organised in work islands, with ergonomic seats and desks, some of which are height-adjustable to encourage a change of position during working hours. On both floors, natural and soft shapes give rhythm to the space by introducing architectural elements characteristic of the concept. The meeting rooms with curved glass walls provide insulation from the open spaces while maintaining spatial continuity at a visual level; the ceiling curtains with their movement and light structure open and close the space as needed, acting as a subtle shield from the noise and distractions of the open space. The light fixtures with their circular, sinuous lines and the natural greenery on the ceiling create a suspended layer that breaks up the rigidity of the enclosure. Each office area has small coffee points, with water dispensers and recycling points accessible to all employees to promote healthy habits and encourage responsible behaviour. The use of colour has been designed according to the function of each area and offers a palette of pastel tones in the quieter areas and accents of colour in the more dynamic and social areas. Finishes and materials are distinguished by being Cradle to Cradle or EPD certified, i.e. made with virtuous production processes for a better and positive impact on the environment, users and people.