Almost two years ago, Microsoft launched its Innovation Centre with the main purpose of supporting the local IT industry. The Microsoft Innovation Centre in Malta is part of the global network of more than 100 centres, which focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and technology learning. It serves as a launch pad for start-ups through its facilities, software and hardware devices.

The purpose of the centre was to fuel local innovation. Architecture firm DeMicoli & Associates was chosen to design and deliver the Microsoft centre. The client brief was very straightforward: the design should reflect an environment that triggers creativity.

Since the centre is also an incubation space for start-ups, one of the main objectives of this project was also to offer an environment that is comfortable and flexible. DeMicoli & Associates maximised space in such a way that it allows various start-ups to work concurrently, without infringing on each other’s space.

This meant that a delicate balance of space design and function had to be created in order to make sure that the layout would enable different activities simultaneously. It was also essential that the design was both dynamic and inspirational. The exciting use of form is seen through angular shapes and irregularly positioned meeting rooms which run throughout the design.

The exciting use of form is seen through angular shapes and irregularly positioned meeting rooms

Immediately upon entering the building one feels the sense of a professional workspace. This was achieved through the implementation of a white, light and clinical form of design. The entrance of the centre boasts designed demo areas where visitors can view displays for new products.

The demo area, training room and glimpses of interesting graphics, colours and logos are all visible from the entrance, thus transmitting a sense of innovation, right from the start. At a distance, new takes on the Microsoft brand can also be seen. Windows 8 “Metro” graphics can be spotted in the background of the training room.

The Microsoft centre provides students and the local community with regular training opportunities, so this brief requirement had to be met, while offering comfort as well as flexibility.

This was achieved though the implementation of design concepts such as moving walls which could turn a small meeting or training room into a larger one, as well as an open demo area with a coffee bar and tables for informal meetings. Everything was designed with the intention of encouraging interaction, communication and creativity.

The rooms were also named to reflect the purpose of the design – they range from ‘The Incubation Room ‘for teamwork and collaboration, to ‘Labs’ and ‘Phone Booths‘ for quieter, more reflective spaces.

In conclusion, the parameters set by the Microsoft were met with an exciting design space featuring state of the art technology; which centres on development with local business, research with the University, and has the space to support start-ups and encourage specific local projects.

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