Youku Shengshi, a leading gaming company based in Beijing, sought to design a new headquarters that would support its rapid growth and reimagine the gaming office for the modern era. Unlike conventional gaming offices that often lean towards cold, utilitarian aesthetics, Youku wanted a space that reflected warmth, creativity, and a unique artistic sensibility.

Their primary aim was to create a workplace that prioritised employee well-being, attracted top talent, and fostered a collaborative, inspiring environment. This presented a unique challenge: crafting a visually captivating, highly functional space that balanced Youku’s artistic vision with practical needs for diverse work styles.

Space Matrix’s design team crafted an innovative workspace by blending functional design with strong artistic elements, making the Youku headquarters not only a workplace but a creative sanctuary. Key design elements included:

Diverse Work Zones
To accommodate a range of work styles, the headquarters featured a variety of workspace options. Private offices offered quiet spaces for focused tasks, while open-plan areas encouraged team collaboration and spontaneous interactions. Flexibility was a core principle—each work zone was designed to allow employees to choose an environment that best suited their individual tasks. Acoustic design was also prioritised, with soundproofing measures added to maintain tranquillity in private areas, while communal spaces embraced a livelier ambiance.

Ergonomics and Health
Health-focused amenities were integrated throughout the design. All workstations were outfitted with electric height-adjustable desks, enabling employees to seamlessly transition between sitting and standing positions throughout the day, promoting physical well-being. Ergonomic seating and workstation layouts were meticulously planned to support comfort during long hours, demonstrating Youku’s commitment to employee health and longevity.

Artistic Expression and Local Culture
To infuse the workspace with creativity and local cultural references, Space Matrix collaborated with renowned local artists to incorporate artwork reflecting the company’s artistic spirit. Each piece was carefully selected and placed to complement the overall design, adding sophistication while inspiring creativity. Large murals, installations, and sculptures were strategically integrated in communal areas, creating a visually stimulating environment that celebrates art and innovation.

Central Social Hub
A key feature of the new headquarters is the central social hub, a multi-functional space designed to foster informal interactions, community, and relaxation. This area includes comfortable seating, greenery, and an open layout, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The social hub encourages employees to engage with each other beyond their desks, nurturing a collaborative culture. The space also incorporates a coffee bar and lounge-style seating, encouraging impromptu gatherings and reinforcing a sense of community within the company.

Space Matrix’s design strategy transformed Youku Shengshi’s headquarters into a dynamic and inspiring workspace that set a new benchmark in gaming office design. By merging functionality with creativity and prioritising employee well-being, the headquarters became a vibrant hub for innovation and collaboration. The diverse work zones, ergonomic amenities, and artistically enriched spaces attracted top talent and cultivated a sense of pride and satisfaction among existing employees.

This new headquarter not only mirrored Youku’s growth needs but also underscored their commitment to an inclusive and inspiring workplace, strengthening Youku’s position as a leader in the modern gaming industry.