Sarawak Convention Bureau has been instrumental in promoting Sarawak as a desirable destination for business meetings and international conferences. Their previous location, in a single-storey bungalow in the town centre, had become insufficient for the growing organisation, and so the decision was made to move into a 900 sqm office space within a 1960s office building nearby.

Given the tight construction budget, the design of the new office had to be both concise and efficient in its use of resources. This resulted in a restrained use of materials (polished concrete floors, glass, timber and steel), the elimination of costly ceilings and trimmings, and the use of open planning wherever practical, to maximise natural light and the feeling of space.

As SCB’s public face, the reception area draws on Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage. A hand-woven traditional rattan mat is incorporated into the reception desk. A timber backdrop, which screens a colourful mural of Sarawak’s iconic hornbill, recreates the intricate weaving on the rim of a traditional Iban rice basket, as do the privacy decals on the glass partitions. Abstracted indigenous motifs are featured in the design of the custom overhead lighting, floor patterns and acoustic ceiling panels.

MIID REKA Awards 2019 for Design Excellence – Mention Special Award in Corporate Offices Category