balbek bureau introduces cinematic multi-space office in zurich
Interior design workshop balbek bureau reveals a multifunctional office for Dynamic Frame, a film production company in central Zurich. Designed to offer varied spaces to support each facet of the company’s work, the office includes editing studios, a small cinema, a warehouse, a kitchen and dining area, and an open workspace for 14 team members.
Inspired by the name of the company, Dynamic Frame, the design concept plays on the dual meaning of a frame— the foundation in construction and the final cinematic image that conceals intricate work behind it. To evoke this idea, the team used an architectural frame that reveals the inner workings of the office, akin to peering into the film production process itself. The layout is structured into a grid that mimics the classic 4:3 aspect ratio, with glass-enclosed functional spaces separated by visible ceiling beams. The cube-like rooms do not touch the ceiling and have no adjacent walls, enhancing the sense of transparency.
all images by Ivan Avdieienko, courtesy of balbek bureau
ticket booth cloackroom welcomes visitors in the workspace
Working remotely on the Dynamic Frame office project, Kyiv-based balbek bureau faced significant challenges due to the complexities of logistics during a time of full-scale war and closed airspace. However, the involvement of numerous Ukrainian contractors enabled the client to reduce costs without compromising on quality. Located on the ground floor of a newly constructed building in Zurich’s Binz district—an area with an industrial history—the project adopts the characteristic round windows and exposed concrete beams of the dwelling.
Upon entering the office, a galvanized steel cloakroom welcomes the visitors, evoking the charm of a retro cinema ticket booth. Beyond a traditional coat check, the adaptable structure doubles as a display for event invitations, tickets, and souvenirs, and its foldable design can transform into a showcase. This element is also enhanced with elastic bands, shelves, and a built-in RGB lamp for adjustable backlighting. The adjacent kitchen, complete with a HAY dining table, vintage chairs, and film posters with Dynamic Frame’s work, caters to the team’s interest in cooking. Warm ocher tones and green accents throughout the space take cues from the short film People on Saturday from Dynamic Frame’s portfolio, adding a cinematic warmth to the space.
visitors are welcomed by a galvanized steel cloakroom
soundproofing and lighting complete the dynamic frame project
Natural light floods the main open space, where balbek bureau balances collaboration with the need for soundproofing. Starting with an unfinished space, the architects teamed up with a Kyiv-based acoustic specialist to add perforated plasterboard cubes that allow sound control. Ukrainian company Expolight developed a dynamic lighting system that allows users to adjust warmth, color, and intensity, adapting to the needs of tasks such as editing, presenting, and film screening. Acoustic partitions divide the desks, while a wooden floor square differentiates the lounge area. A central gathering point is the custom plywood amphitheater, featuring integrated bookshelves, inviting team members to meet, relax, or brainstorm.
the design concept plays on the dual meaning of a frame
each space features thoughtful visual elements
Inside the editing rooms, balbek bureau integrates equipment racks for the workstations and unique visual elements, including glass blocks that let in diffused daylight. The larger editing room allows for collaborative reviews around a TV screen, while seating on comfortable podiums. Artworks from Ukranian painters like Viktor Barbara’s Peaceful Sky and Igor Nekraha’s Pink Cloud bring warmth and inspiration. The meeting room, set within a glass-partitioned block, is centered around an irregularly shaped bespoke table and equipped with a TV and acoustic panels.
The screening room can be used for final presentations and a place to view rough cuts of films on the big screen. It features a separate workspace with screens for individual tasks, ensuring the team can collaborate efficiently. Custom-designed sofa units by Ukrainian furniture brand propro furniture provide comfort, while the room’s round windows echo the architecture of the industrial building. These windows can be covered with hatches during screenings to create an immersive experience and opened during discussions or work.
the adaptable structure doubles as a display for event invitations, tickets, and souvenirs
a central gathering point is the custom plywood amphitheater
natural light floods the main open space
