To commemorate this special anniversary, the LIAG team is reflecting on past projects throughout the year. Carina, partner and architect at LIAG, chose to highlight the iconic Philips headquarters at the Vredeoord estate in Eindhoven, completed in 1964. "It wasn't just Dirk Roosenburg's final project; its later renovation in 2001 also marked LIAG's first project. A year later, while the renovation was still underway, I arrived here as an intern," Carina recalls. What immediately fascinated her about this design was that despite its austere facade and simple floor plan, the building was never mundane. "It was Philips' showpiece, featuring cutting-edge technology and an ingenious showcase of their lighting products."
Carina adds: "Moreover, the building was specifically designed to create an optimal work environment." During the building's opening ceremony, Frits Philips noted in his speech that 'a beautiful environment proves stimulating for work.' The head of the construction bureau emphasized another key point at the time: 'Both cleanliness and a well-maintained appearance have an educational impact on those working in that environment. This influence directly affects product quality and ultimately benefits society as a whole.' "The principles of environmental psychology are clearly evident here. Philips' lighting technology department was even involved in developing lighting fixtures specifically designed for employees' visual comfort."
"What makes this building truly remarkable - and exceptionally well-designed - is its diamond-shaped floor plan," says Carina. Workspaces along the facade provide employees with both natural light and stunning views of the surrounding estate. Two atria are centrally located on each floor, with amenities such as circulation spaces and restrooms nearby. "This floor plan offers multiple advantages: it helps employees orient themselves, prevents long sight lines, and creates varied perspectives. As you move deeper into the building, the space becomes increasingly intimate and enclosed." As a final interesting detail: The building stands apart from conventional design by eliminating the usual columns, thanks to an innovative construction technique found in only three office buildings across Europe.