The office is no longer just a place where people go to “put in” eight hours of work a day. In recent years, the transformation of working habits has fundamentally changed its role. A prime example of this shift is the new offices of the technology company MEWS in Prague, whose realization we contributed to.

Designed for the Way We Work Today

The new MEWS headquarters was created in response to a remote-first approach and the concept of “Unworking,” which redefines the traditional office model. Instead of a fixed setup, it offers an environment where everyone can choose how they work based on their current needs.

The space combines open areas for collaboration with quieter zones for focus and relaxation. The classic open-plan office has been replaced by a flexible environment where each activity has its natural place.

The result is an interior that doesn’t feel formal or strictly work-oriented, but rather like a thoughtfully designed setting that supports creativity, natural interaction, and focused work at the same time.

A Workplace People Choose to Be In

The office is no longer an obligation for employees, but a place where relationships are built, ideas are shared, and company culture develops naturally. It’s not just about ergonomics or technical equipment, but about the overall atmosphere.

In the case of MEWS, natural materials, a soft color palette, ample daylight, and a strong focus on acoustics played a key role in the design. The result is an environment that doesn’t feel sterile, but rather natural and human. Veneered and solid wood, upholstered and textile elements, artificial stone, and acoustic cladding take center stage—carefully selected to enhance sound comfort and soften the dynamics of the workspace.

We’ve seen that when an office is thoughtfully and humanly designed, people choose to spend more time there. Today, our spaces function as places for meeting, inspiration, and informal interactions that are often missing in a remote environment. We consider employee involvement to be key—not only during the design phase, but also after the office has opened.
Thanks to this, we gained very specific insights into what people truly need—such as a strong focus on acoustics, sufficient quiet zones, and quality ergonomics. Some aspects we might have intuitively underestimated, such as how strongly people perceive light, materials, and the overall atmosphere of a space. At the same time, involving employees strengthens their relationship with the environment—they don’t feel the office was “imposed” on them, but that they helped shape it. And we continue to build on that approach.

Katerina Drbohlavova

Senior People Experience Specialist | MEWS

A Workplace Shaped by Its People

One of the key factors behind the project’s success was the involvement of employees in the design process itself. Through an internal survey and a so-called construction committee, a space was created that reflects real day-to-day needs—from a strong emphasis on acoustics and sufficient quiet zones to the quality of light and materials.

At the same time, it became clear that involving people significantly strengthens their relationship with the office. They don’t perceive it as something “imposed”, but as an environment they helped shape—and are therefore more likely to embrace as their own.

Lounge areas, spaces for informal meetings, and especially the bar zone have naturally evolved into the heart of the office. It is here that spontaneous conversations take place, often leading to new ideas or deeper working relationships. The office thus ceases to be just a functional space and becomes a living organism.

„We integrated ESG principles into the interior—both in the selection of materials and in the overall design strategy. We focused on responsible sourcing, long-term durability, efficient use of space, and above all, the wellbeing of users. The result is a work environment with the atmosphere of a curated lobby—one that is inspiring, socially vibrant, and at the same time performance-oriented.“

— Petar Opačić, M. Arch, A3 Architects

Design That Drives Business Value

Investing in a high-quality work environment today is no longer just a matter of aesthetics, but a strategic decision.

“The office is part of the employee experience. Combined with flexibility and a focus on well-being, we see it as a competitive advantage,” says Drbohlavova. Companies that can create environments aligned with today’s way of working are in a much stronger position—not only to retain existing employees, but also to attract new talent.

The MEWS project, awarded Best IT Office of the Year, demonstrates that offices today are no longer just a backdrop for work. They are tools for building company culture, supporting collaboration, and enhancing employees’ personal well-being. And that is where their true value lies.

Design: A3 Architects d.o.o.
Project Management: Prochazka & Partners
Photography: Jana Volkova

Planning a new interior for your company or home? At Woodever, we specialize in bespoke furniture, custom-made solutions, and turnkey interior realizations where detail plays a key role. Whether you are drawn to engineered stone or looking for a combination of other premium materials, we are ready to turn your vision into reality. Get in touch with us.