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A canteen is a specific assignment where we must consider efficiency and high turnover in dining. We really wanted to visually divide the space, but it was also necessary to maintain a clear view when looking for an available table. We also did not want to interfere with the existing building structures. Therefore, the idea of inserting "park pavilions" or "gazebos" was born, which visually and acoustically divide the space without strictly defining it. Our goal was to create a different environment for employees who spend most of their day in the office, bringing a pleasant change to their day during their lunch break. The ideal would be to break up the workday with a picnic in the park. Therefore, our inspiration and the mood we started from was Monet's painting Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe. We tried to bring a more informal atmosphere into the relatively austere and formal office building. Lots of greenery, natural materials, and various types of seating nooks should all make lunchtime more enjoyable for the workers. Another problem we perceived in the space was acoustics, which is why we chose elements made of special acoustic panels—dividing panels in the pavilions, as well as sound-absorbing upholstery made from recycled PET materials on chairs and light fixtures. One of the challenges for us was the greenery concept, which was understandably important to us. We were looking for atypical, unconventional species that would evoke a park, a garden, or sitting under a tree more than the frequently used "urban jungle" greenery of today. Most of the species we originally selected prefer the outdoors to the indoors. However, based on consultations with a specialist, we ultimately created a beautiful planting scheme that should thrive in the canteen.
Ing. Lucia Galušková