img(height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=2939831959404383&ev=PageView&noscript=1")

Could this pod prototype be the future of work?

The MA module can be used for creative homeworking or as a break-out extension of office space. A version commissioned by Fiandre features antiviral ceramic surfaces with built-in automation sensors

In association with
The MA pod was created by Austrian start-up ConceptMA. This special version was commissioned by Fiandre Architectural Services.
The MA pod was created by Austrian start-up ConceptMA. This special version was commissioned by Fiandre Architectural Services. Credit: Luca Lumaca

Fiandre Architectural Surfaces has commissioned an innovative home office module for its headquarters in Castellarano, Italy. 

The MA pod was designed by ConceptMA, an Austrian start-up founded by architect Gregor Pils and partners Fabian Weidinger and Erwin Stricker.

It was conceived as a complete home office solution for companies - for owners and employees who want to work in a concentrated and balanced way in a productive, dedicated space.

The module can provide a physical, stimulating environment where new ideas can be developed. It is named after the Japanese concept of MA, the interpretation of empty space - of emptiness that is not empty.

When existing living or working spaces are not enough, say its developers, MA becomes an extension focusing on wellbeing, concentration, creative stimuli and relaxation.

The special MA pod commissioned by Fiandre has an internal living area with large windows, a wardrobe for clothes and belongings and a mini kitchen area with a washbasin, fridge and tea-making equipment.

It features Luce ceramic surfaces designed by fashion designer Guillermo Mariotto for the Iris Ceramica Group. 

  • The MA pod: Panoramic glazing connects the occupant with the outdoor environment.
    1 of 6
    The MA pod: Panoramic glazing connects the occupant with the outdoor environment. Credit: Luca Lumaca
  • The Fiandre MA pod features Luce ceramic slabs designed by Guillermo Mariotto for the Iris Ceramica Group.
    1 of 6
    The Fiandre MA pod features Luce ceramic slabs designed by Guillermo Mariotto for the Iris Ceramica Group. Credit: Luca Lumaca
  • The Fiandre MA pod has a mini-break area and wardrobe featuring Active Surfaces.
    1 of 6
    The Fiandre MA pod has a mini-break area and wardrobe featuring Active Surfaces.
  • The Fiandre MA pod features Luce ceramic slabs designed by Guillermo Mariotto for the Iris Ceramica Group. Artwork by Fabio Petani.
    1 of 6
    The Fiandre MA pod features Luce ceramic slabs designed by Guillermo Mariotto for the Iris Ceramica Group. Artwork by Fabio Petani. Credit: Luca Lumaca.
  • Table design by Studio Milo for Fiandre Architectural Surfaces.
    1 of 6
    Table design by Studio Milo for Fiandre Architectural Surfaces. Credit: Luca Lumaca
  • The MA pod has concrete-free foundations that can be removed without residue.
    1 of 6
    The MA pod has concrete-free foundations that can be removed without residue. Credit: Luca Lumaca
123456

An electronic control system called Hypertouch is another feature. It is a concealed capacitive technology applied to ceramic surfaces that enables home automation without the need for switches and external cover plates.

Hypertouch automatic sensors are activated by lightly touching the ceramic surfaces. These can switch lighting on and off and activate audio-video systems, windows and temperature controls.

Hypertouch was created by the Iris Ceramica Group and is applicable to Fiandre ceramic slabs.

The pod's wardrobe and mini-break area, including the washbasin, are made with Fiandre Active Surfaces. 

These are photo-catalytic, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-pollution ceramic surfaces that can also eliminate 94 per cent of the SARS-CoV-2 virus after just four hours of exposure to natural light or conventional low-intensity bulbs.

Find more on this case study at granitfiandre.com/case-study

For more information and technical support, visit granitifiandre.com

 

Contact:

Iris Ceramica Group, London

020 3642 1141

msghedoni@granitifiandre.it


 

Latest

Learn more about why there has been an increase of damp and mould and how controlled ventilation can help

Learn more about why there has been an increase of damp and mould and how controlled ventilation can help

Lead the restoration of four war memorial sites, bid for a spot on a schools construction framework, design a riverside community hub and market square - some of the latest architecture contracts and competitions from across the industry

Latest: War memorials conservation project

Asked to comprehensively remodel the two upper floors of a Grade II-listed merchant's house, Carmody Groarke put living space at the top and added a striking aluminium pavilion

Remodelling a former merchant's house's upper floors, Carmody Groarke put living space at the top and added an aluminium pavilion

The parade of temporary interventions on our streets injects them with joy, colour and life – and has lessons for architects, argues Eleanor Young

Temporary interventions on our streets inject them with joy, colour and life, and have lessons for architects

Restaurant in Freiburg, Germany extends outside dining to nine months a year by installing weatherproof awnings

Extend outside dining to nine months a year with a weatherproof awning

1
123456