Areen creates four ‘worlds’ at YuLife’s Shoreditch workplace

Areen has designed a new hybrid workspace for young Fintech insurance company, set across two floors including a small courtyard chillout space. Areen undertook a detailed analysis of the client’s working methods on a day-to-day basis, creating a zoning plan to include semi- private and enclosed spaces, meeting rooms, single-seat pods, an interaction zone, wall-hung bike storage, and a café-style staff pantry with a wide selection of free food and drinks.

The layout and ‘look and feel’ of the various spaces encourage interaction between the employees in a relaxed and sociable manner – reflecting the management style of the company,” comments the Areen team. In such a relatively small space of around 300 sq m, the wellbeing of the staff was of paramount importance.

“Like most of our commercial projects, we based our design for YuLife on their corporate brand characteristics,” says Areen. “YuLife is a Fintech insurance company with branding based on the concept of ‘offering more than normal group life insurance’. YuLife’s mission is to inspire everyone, to live their best lives and to be a soulful distributor creating change, to make a positive difference to themselves and others.”

YuLife uses four graphic landscapes as distinctive brand elements to create consistency between the virtual world of their app and the rest of the brand: The Forest, The Ocean, The Desert and The Mountain. These represent the four ‘worlds’ that users can explore within the app.

Areen applied elements from each of these ‘worlds’ in designing the space. The ground floor space, ‘The Forest’ is a series of spaces connected by colour and detail inspired by a forest canopy. Natural and playful accents complement plenty of flexible working options to foster interaction and collaboration.

Downstairs, the basement, ‘The Desert’ space is a change in pace, using a warm colour palette to create a sense of calm – making use of the height of the stairwell to create an interactive area for presentations, quiet work, or socialising.

‘The Ocean’ space is another shift in colour, form and materiality. Using cooler tones inspired by an oceanscape, Areen has defined areas that are more private – creating a series of zones that offer privacy and flexibility while still feeling connected.

Outside, ‘The Mountain’ space is a serence retreat, with playful timber construction. Drawing influence from alpine spas, Areen whitewashed the courtyward walls to create a peaceful space that feels brigh and large. Warm contrasts are placed throughout, including upholstered accent pieces, rugs and cushions. Future plans for the space include a tent-like zone for contemplation and meditation, adding another dimension to this eclectic and adaptable workplace.