BY FRAMEWORK STUDIO

When Karl Lagerfeld approached Framework Studio and Millten Amsterdam (a developer specialising in bespoke real estate projects) to design his new HQ, the fashion designer had already chosen the location of his new office spaces. Lagerfeld had chosen the historic Canal House known as monument Zonnewijser, which was located in the centre of Amsterdam. The national heritage building measuring 2,300m2 across five levels was converted into the designer’s new HQ, with contemporary office spaces that would foster the principles of ‘innovation, creativity and collaboration’. 

Originally built in 1615, monument Zonnewijser was later redesigned into the Louis XVI style in 1772. The interior architects and developers carefully worked to preserve the original historic details of the building which included its main facade, as well as the ‘ornate ceilings, a marble spiral staircase, an art deco elevator shaft and the ground floor neoclassical ballroom’. 

When starting the design process, Framework Studio posed the question as to how they could redefine the concept of creating a contemporary office space. Thomas Geerlings, the Founder and Creative Director of the studio explains that ‘now, more than ever our working lives - especially when it comes about creative fields - are blending with our personal lives. Our goal was to give Karl Lagerfeld a working environment that would feel like home. A place for meetings, socialising, relaxing etc. This meant leaving the old idea of fixed desks behind, creating flexible working and meeting places, for a more casual and informal environment. At the new Karl Lagerfeld HQ there are just so many spots to have a casual meeting with colleagues or clients!’

Upon entering the Zonnewijser building, staff and guests are welcomed through a monumental white marble corridor with ornate ceiling details, that serves as a prelude to the story of the heritage of the building that will unfold to its guests. Located on the ground level is the CEO’s office amongst other offices. Two patios have been incorporated into the programme of the ground level that are graced with an abundance of natural light. Fitted with Ceppo di Gre flooring, they are also furnished with pieces by the renowned Danish designer, Dirk van der Kooij, as well as a rich olive green velvet lounge, and potted plants that creates the ambiance of an outdoor patio. A portrait of Mr Lagerfeld himself is also featured in the space by the London-based street-artist, Endless. 

From the patio, the magnificent ballroom which is a prized heritage feature of this historic building can be accessed. Framework Studio restored the ballroom by working in close consultation with the ‘Bureau Monumenten & Archeologie’, which is Amsterdam’s government agency who works to preserve the historical identity of such precious monuments. The restored neo-classical identity of the ballroom has been juxtaposed with contemporary furnishings that include a mirrored bar, large black oak free-standing cabinets used to act as space dividers within the grand room, as well as a long black oak communal table, and chandeliers by Dirk van der Kooij which are made of playful extrusions of reclaimed synthetics - as opposed to crystals that once may have adorned the space. The room has now been employed to host fashion shows, events, meetings, as well as a grand waiting room for guests.

Over the next levels, more offices and various spaces dedicated to the function of the fashion departments can be found. However, on the fourth floor, a co-working space named ‘Karls’ has been designed for staff to be able to host team events, meetings, celebrations and have lunch. From this space, staff can also access a spiral staircase that leads them to the dome and provides panoramic views of Amsterdam. The space has also been reserved for staff to take part in meditations each morning, and thus works as a shared community space.

Sadly, although the late fashion designer visited the building whilst it was still being renovated in December 2018, he passed away only two months later, and unfortunately never set foot in the new headquarters that was completed in February 2020. The spirit of Karl Lagerfeld has however, been beautifully preserved through the playful portraits, photographs, caricatures, dolls, models, and displays of clothing he designed which adorn the spaces of the HQ.

PHOTOGRAPHY | KASIA GATKOWSKA