Harman/Kardon

... attract attention in Amsterdam Houthaven

The new, dynamic location serves as the EMEA headquarters for the company's consumer audio division. The modern premises span three floors and include a rooftop terrace with stunning views. The new office also accommodates a showroom where all consumer products can be seen and experienced. An environment has been created in which the employees can feel at home and give free rein to their creativity.

Builder: HARMAN Consumer Audio EMEA Headquarters
Occupant: HARMAN Consumer Audio EMEA Headquarters
Planning: OCS+, feco
Completion: 2021
City: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Sector: Economy
Office furniture: Agile work, Cafeteria, Lounge, Storage elements, Workplaces
Photos: Lisanne Redegeld
Brands: Object Carpet, Orangebox, OfficeBricks, Steelcase, Viccarbe

It was HARMAN’s explicit wish to transfer the existing furniture from the previous office in Amsterdam South East to the new office. The concept therefore envisioned a mixture of existing and new furniture. Workstations were equipped with acoustic walls and cable ducts. A number of soft seating elements were also integrated into the new design. The concept of the circular economy has taken on a whole new level in this project. The flooring and some of the furniture were made from recycled materials and the use of plastics in the office was minimised. In addition to the reuse of existing furniture, new furniture was supplied with a sustainability passport.

HARMAN welcomes new ways of working with its people-centred spaces. On average, employees work three days a week in the office and two days at home. The office is designed to allow people to work in the best way possible. In addition to flexible workstations, areas have been created where people can meet, socialise informally or work quietly. The work café offers a marvellous view of the river IJ. The location in Amsterdam’s Houthaven is important to HARMAN. Its neighbours include the new creative centre with media companies, advertising agencies, fashion, entertainment and music studios. It’s inspiring for employees to be at the centre of the creative industry, and it attracts new colleagues.

The result is a working environment that is in line with both HARMAN’s new flexible working model and our shared vision of the circular economy.