Poly

In the midst of the dynamic Park 20|20, where the synergy between people and nature is pivotal, the European headquarters that we have built for Poly* stands out like a beacon of innovation. Surrounded by lush greenery, this architectural masterpiece offers a unique experience where space, performance and the feel of the place are seamlessly woven together.

Smarter working in a biophilic building

Poly, the world leader in audio technology, was keen to strike a balance between a sense of calm, space, performance and the feel of a place in its new office. That is why we chose a biophilic design, modelled on nature.

The building has implemented Poly's 'smarter working' concept (concentration, collaboration, communication and flexibility), where each space has a clear function. Ambient noise is kept to a minimum in a unique way in the busy open-plan office and call centre. Fountains as living walls and geometrically shaped walls help to mask distracting noise and wrap it in a soundscape.

Comfortable sofas invite informal meetings and the space around them fosters creativity. In 2018, the office design was honoured with the German Design Award.

 

Synergy between people and nature

At Poly, staff are encouraged to work outdoors in the park and every opportunity is taken to connect people with nature. Happy employees are proven to be more creative and productive. Research shows that a biophilic approach can reduce absenteeism by up to 15%.

Several areas are set aside for breaks. For example, there is a music room where people can play, experiment and relax. It also has a gym, where you can start, end or take a break from your day.

Active soundscaping

As a pioneer, Poly has pooled its knowledge with Delta to develop a system of optimised passive acoustics. Active soundscaping, such as gently bubbling water, was installed to mask the many voices in the open call centre. This has created a space where people can concentrate to the fullest. This system won the Connell Soundscape Award.

"We call this building the 'acoustic temple'. It really is a building that has been made for our people. We wanted to create a place where people can be happy. It creates more peace of mind among our employees and ultimately higher levels of efficiency."

Ole Hellfritsch

2nd Head of EMEA Channel Marketing, Poly

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91%

of staff are happy with the new premises

x2

noise levels more than double the Leesman Index benchmark

97%

is proud of where they work

82.3

Leesman Index score, destijds het hoogst scorende Leesman+ gebouw in de Benelux

Next Generation Logistics

Poly makes use of the following materials and features that are instrumental to our Next Generation Logistics concept:

People-oriented:
staff consultation, non-toxic materials, biophilic, natural air quality and climate control, designed to promote productivity and well-being, communal green outdoor area, connected to transport and services.

Circular design:
built for disassembly, bolted, not welded, traceable materials, green roof, solar panels that produce 25% of energy demand with the rest coming from nearby solar power installations, natural helophyte filter grey water recycling.

Intelligent technology:
fully electric with charging points for cars, light sensors, acoustic sensors and interactive dimming.

*Poly merged into HP by way of an acquisition in 2022 and has since left the premises as a consequence.

"Particularly impressive are the exceptionally high satisfaction ratings for sound levels. It is an excellent example for many other organisations who find it difficult to achieve the same."

Gideon van der Burg

Managing Director Benelux at Leesman

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Specifications

Client

Poly

Location

Park 20|20, Hoofddorp, Netherlands

Surface area

3,500 m² office space, fully in use

Architects

William McDonough + Partners, N3O

Development partners

Reggeborgh, VolkerWessels

Certificates

BREEAM-NL Excellent

Awards

Winner of the Connell Soundscape Award, Winner of the German Design Award – Excellent Communications Design Interior Architecture

Sustainable Development Goals

Other projects