IA Interior Architects Creates Ideal Office-as-Home: Harella House
Home Improvement

IA Interior Architects Creates Ideal Office-as-Home: Harella House

Two-and-a-half years later, working from home is still as popular as it was at the start of the pandemic, even with the pangs of missing human connection and working as a team. IA Interior Architects set out to change that by merging the best of both scenarios with the creation of a concept in London called The Harella House. IA’s idea of an office-as-home resulted in a modern workspace that delivers innovation and face-to-face experiences with a focus on balance and well-being, things typically not associated with the office. While The Harella House is designed for productive work days, the overall feel leans towards a familiarity and comfort one generally finds at home.

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

The Harella House takes over the fourth floor of a 1930’s building that’s earned a BREEAM Excellent rating with its reduction of carbon emissions.

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

The open office, which includes a house-like meeting room, mezzanine, and terrace, features a wood-clad pitched roof that warms the space. Natural materials are paired with a neutral palette to elevate the feeling of home. Large windows on three sides keep the interior light and bright, and the employees connected to nature.

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

The Sheds is a meeting room enclosed with glass walls that can easily split into two smaller spaces thanks to a retractable wall.

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

The overall design is meant to be flexible making it an ideal space for entertaining large gatherings or smaller events, with furnishings designed to be packed away when needed.

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

Throughout, there are various types of workstations for solo work to collaborations, all thoughtfully dispersed amongst a curated selection of green plants.

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

The space is divided into zones, each that reference the home, including the Kitchen being the communal dining area; the multipurpose Den which accommodates social gatherings, acts as a game room, and a relaxation space; and the Haven, a smaller spot for meditation, alone time, or for new mothers.

home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

The mezzanine houses the Loft with a lounge space and workstations where one can work on more focused tasks. Another breakout space lives here – the Safe – where colleagues can enjoy a beverage at the end of the day.

home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

Harella House home-like office in London designed with wellness in mind

modern office interior that feels like home

modern office interior that feels like home

modern office interior that feels like home

modern office interior that feels like home

Photos by Ed Reeve.

Caroline Williamson is Editorial Director of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.