WeTransfer spotlights creative purpose in new Amsterdam HQ

Self-described as ‘a tech company with a creative heart’, WeTransfer’s new Netherlands HQ – conceived by London-based studio Woodall Design – was envisioned above all as a multi-functional workspace that fosters connectivity. Vintage furniture, recycled pieces, ambient lighting and authentic, locally sourced materials all play an important role in promoting a sense of ownership for employees, allowing them to feel a more personal connection their shared workspace – despite being a remote-first employee base.

Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the 12,000 sq ft site is comprised of five townhouses with identical floor plans, positioned around a central café. This café not only acts as a social hub for employees, but also provides a versatile space to host workshops, artist exhibitions and presentations, putting the company’s ethos of flexibility into practice. An on-site kitchen complete with characterful vintage chairs was also introduced to accommodate catering services, designed to support daily team lunches that foster a strong company culture.

Employees were consulted by the studio to create the most effective, user-friendly layout possible. These engagement sessions highlighted the need for flexible, collaborative spaces to accommodate creative departments such as the advertising, marketing and social initiative teams, as well as quiet desk areas designed to meet the needs of tech-focused employees such as engineers, who require more uninterrupted environments.

Being a digital company focused on seamless, efficient communication, it was also important for Woodall Design to incorporate plenty of smart technology throughout. This included the latest systems for room booking as well as high-spec AV equipment, helping to unite employees and clients whether they work remotely, hybrid or on-site. Individual desks and work zones were also fitted with a single cable to perform multiple functions and charge multiple devices, creating a more streamlined, less cluttered environment free from copious tangled wires.

Keeping sustainability in mind, 60% of the furniture throughout the office was reused in an effort to promote circularity and minimise waste, helping the project earn an “In-Use” BREEAM certification. Bespoke acoustic panels and light fixtures were also sourced from Amsterdam manufacturers such as DeVorm and Refelt (the latter being made from recycled PET bottles), helping the studio keep transportation emissions to a minimum as well as contribute to the local economy.

As a data-sharing software used by creatives across the world, WeTransfer additionally wanted their new HQ to reflect their enduring connection to the creative industries. Woodall Design were therefore careful to spotlight the WePresent platform, in which the company donates up to 30% of its advertising space to support artists and social causes. They did so by creating a bespoke in-house gallery showcasing their creative partnerships, featuring flexible, metal mesh walls to accommodate up-to-date exhibitions hosting multiple artists’ work.