Nigerian design firm Five28 has recently completed an impressive project for Wema Bank, designing and fitting its first-ever innovation hub, IDEAX Labs, in Lagos. In Wema Bank’s 79-year history, this marks a pivotal move toward fostering innovation and collaboration. The interior designers at Five28 were tasked with creating a space that resonates with the bank’s core values: Passion, Progressive, Partnership, Plenty, and Play. The result is a modern, dynamic workspace that blends cutting-edge design with functionality, aimed at enhancing creativity and technological advancement.
Design Concept and Layout
At the heart of the design for IDEAX Labs is an open-plan layout, built to encourage collaboration and flexibility. Five28 achieved this by carefully zoning the space, using modular seating, workstation areas, and focused booth seating. The layout’s thoughtful furniture arrangement is complemented by futuristic elements like an interactive feature wall that encourages team engagement, while planter boxes are strategically used to create natural divisions between seating areas.
The designers wanted to ensure that the workspace wasn’t just practical but also engaging. “Set against a backdrop of neutral tones, we incorporated the bank’s branding colors to reinforce its identity,” says Five28. Splashes of vibrant colors reflect the innovative spirit of the space while adding an energetic feel. Black, white, and yellow were used prominently throughout the hub, with the black and white providing a timeless, sleek foundation and the yellow injecting a sense of brightness and focus to key areas.
Lighting for Atmosphere and Functionality
Lighting played a crucial role in defining zones within IDEAX Labs. The designers used different light temperatures to suit the various functions of each space. Warmer lighting was employed in relaxation areas to create a cozy atmosphere, while cooler, brighter lights were introduced to enhance focus in work zones. “Some light fixtures have adjustable settings, allowing them to switch between warm, cool, and bright white, offering versatility depending on the mood and needs of the space,” explains the design team. The lighting fixtures themselves were carefully chosen to serve as both functional and stylish statement pieces.
Flooring and Material Selection
The choice of flooring was another deliberate design decision aimed at enhancing the overall functionality of the space. SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) flooring was installed beneath the workstations, providing a hard-wearing and easy-to-clean surface that stands apart from the carpet tiles used throughout the rest of the space. The mix of SPC flooring and carpet tiles helps to visually differentiate work zones from relaxation areas while ensuring the workspace remains cohesive and comfortable.
Interactive Features for Engagement
One of the most notable aspects of the IDEAX Labs design is the interactive feature wall. Central to this wall is a custom-built, four-sided rotating box that invites users to play Tic-Tac-Toe or solve crossword puzzles, incorporating words and symbols that are unique to Wema Bank’s identity. This playful yet subtle feature fosters team interaction and serves as a reminder of the bank’s innovative goals.
Greenery and Natural Elements
To add a touch of calm and bring nature into the workspace, Five28 integrated plenty of greenery throughout the 80-square-meter hub. Vibrant plants are strategically placed to soften the sleek, modern lines of the furniture, adding a burst of color and a sense of tranquility to the environment. The combination of natural and modern elements works to create a balanced space that is both productive and relaxing.
Conclusion
Five28’s design for Wema Bank’s IDEAX Labs innovation hub showcases the firm’s commitment to creating spaces that blend style, functionality, and innovation. Every detail, from the lighting to the flooring to the playful feature wall, reflects the designers’ dedication to enhancing the user experience while aligning with Wema Bank’s values. This innovation hub not only marks a significant milestone for the bank but also sets a new standard for modern workspaces in Lagos, serving as a beacon of creativity and collaboration for years to come.
Photography: Luxury Interior Image NG
