Shanhe Pharma

Shanhe Pharmaceutical’s new office redefines the relationship between geometry, clarity, and human experience. The design concept draws from the company’s dedication to scientific precision and holistic wellness—translating these values into a spatial language of curved gestures, modular divisions, and atmospheric contrasts. The result is an environment where function is seamlessly woven into form, and innovation is made tangible through spatial choreography.

Project info

Client

Shanhe Pharma

Project Type

Workplace

Location

Changsha, Hunan

Project Area

2465qm

Project Area

February 2024

Bridging art and work

At the heart of the design is a celebration of circularity and flow—both literal and symbolic. Circles are integrated into the planning strategy, ceiling language, and key furniture pieces, creating a sense of movement, unity, and rhythm. The office becomes more than a workplace; it becomes an ecosystem of interrelated zones, where research, collaboration, and contemplation occur without visual interruption or architectural hierarchy.

The existing space was a rigid rectangular floorplate, segmented by orthogonal partitions and limited natural light. The transformation began by softening the geometry—introducing curved walls and ceiling arcs to replace harsh corners and linear divisions. By breaking up visual symmetry and introducing concentric forms, the design encouraged organic flow and spatial layering. The resulting plan is both intuitive and fluid, guiding users from entry to work zones, meeting areas, and informal lounges through spatial cues rather than fixed walls.

Geometric motifs such as arcs, rings, and ellipses are not just visual signatures—they’re organizational tools, defining zones without physical barriers. Instead of separating functions with walls, we used overlapping circular footprints to suggest use and transition, creating spatial harmony that echoes the company’s integrative approach to health and science.

Material, Form & Detail

Ceiling design plays a sculptural role, with a continuous curved soffit detail weaving across work zones like a rib – bon—subtly embedded with lighting and acoustics. Furni – ture selections reinforce the circular theme, from rounded meeting pods to soft modular benches. Minimalist joinery and flush detailing echo pharmaceutical cleanliness while supporting spatial calm. The overall feel is both sophisticat – ed and human, merging clarity with character

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? Check our FAQs below or contact us directly.

What was the starting point for the Shanhe Pharma office design?

Shanhe is a company deeply rooted in science, but also in the idea of balance and well-being. From the beginning, I wanted to avoid cold, overly rational spaces. Instead, we looked to geometry—specifically the circle—as a metaphor for integration, precision, and flow. That’s where the design began: with form, meaning, and motion.

The office features many circular elements. What’s the thinking behind that?

The circle is a powerful symbol. In spatial terms, it promotes continuity and removes the hierarchy of straightline planning. At Shanhe, we used arcs and circular zones to soften transitions, define program areas without walls,and introduce a sense of rhythm and calm. The plan became a sort of spatial choreography, where movement feels natural and purposeful.

How did you approach dividing space without making it feel fragmented?

We focused on geometric overlaps instead of partitions.Imagine zones that breathe into each other—one circular seating area bleeding into a meeting zone, which transitions into a semi-enclosed lounge. It’s a holistic system where everything is connected, but each function still has its own identity. That’s very much aligned with how Shanhe sees its own internal operations—collaborative,layered, and continuous.

Can you speak to the use of color—especially the red and black accents?

The overall palette is very quiet and neutral. We wanted the core materials—plaster, soft wood, acoustics—to feel grounded and timeless. But we also introduced black and red as precise injections of energy—through lighting, upholstery, and detailing. Red speaks to vitality and urgency, while black offers structure and clarity. These accents give the space a pulse.

How would you describe the experience of being in the space?

It’s calm, but not sterile. Circular ceilings draw your gaze up, soft walls curve gently around you, and small color highlights keep you visually engaged. It’s not a space that shouts—it listens and flows. I think the most successful part is that you feel the architecture,but you’re not overwhelmed by it. It supports focus, collaboration, and presence—which is what a modern pharmaceutical HQ should do.

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