Designing for new work: lighting and acoustics shape Atelier drü’s new studio

TRILUX has delivered a lighting solution for the new offices of Swiss architecture practice Atelier drü in Flums, in the canton of St. Gallen. Designed as a collaborative “New Work” environment, the project combines exposed concrete architecture with minimalist interior design, placing lighting and acoustics at the centre of the workplace concept. The office design features large concrete surfaces, modern furnishings, and integrated ceiling elements to create a balanced working environment where interior design, lighting and spatial planning work together to support comfort and collaboration.

In contemporary office environments, lighting and acoustic solutions increasingly contribute to both functionality and visual identity. At Atelier drü’s new workspace, the interaction between these elements forms a key part of the overall design concept.

Two rows of rectangular acoustic panels were installed above the workstations to reduce reverberation while maintaining the exposed concrete ceiling aesthetic. Working within this limited ceiling space required a lighting solution that could deliver both performance and visual impact.

Integrated acoustic and lighting design

TRILUX specified the award-winning So-Tube luminaire, arranged in a deliberately irregular zig-zag formation between the acoustic panels. With glare control below UGR 19, the luminaires provide comfortable illumination for screen-based work while introducing a dynamic visual element to the ceiling design.

Lighting as part of the interior architecture

In entrance, meeting and conference areas, the design concept introduces organic ceiling elements that contrast with the industrial concrete structure. Round acoustic panels with a dark textile finish appear suspended beneath the ceiling, creating a softer visual environment.

These elements are complemented by Taiwo surface-mounted luminaires, specified in a housing colour matched to the acoustic panels. The coordinated shapes, colours and irregular ceiling layout create the impression of a floating arrangement of light and acoustic elements, reinforcing the modern, minimalist character of the space.

Linear lighting for orientation and zoning

A continuous light line behind the reception desk provides both visual warmth and spatial definition in the entrance area. The angled installation contrasts with the exposed concrete wall while helping to zone the space.

The light line continues through the office, marking circulation routes across the ceiling and connecting different functional areas of the workplace. Delivering a seamless lighting effect across corners and long runs required careful planning and precise installation.

“The light is not only particularly homogeneous and pleasant — the light line continues around corners and along its entire length without shadow gaps or interruptions,” explains Ralf Gaedicke, Product Manager Office and Education at TRILUX.

By integrating lighting with acoustic and architectural elements, the Atelier drü workspace demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform everyday working spaces into creative environments.

To learn more about TRILUX solutions for modern office environments and New Work concepts, visit: https://www.trilux.com/gb/applications/office/lighting-for-offices/