Balikpapan - Students from the Architecture Study Program at Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) have once again achieved national recognition through an innovative interior design concept that responds to the evolving needs of modern workplaces. The team, led by Muhammad Irfan Santoro (Architecture 2023) with Shavira Anastesia (Architecture 2023) under the supervision of Rulliannor Syah Putra, secured 1st Place in the AMAZINC Office Interior Design Competition organized by PT Fumira.

The award-winning project, titled “The Breathing Steel  Meeting Room,” introduces a “breathing” meeting space concept designed to address a key challenge in today’s work environment: how to create spaces that are healthy, flexible, and productivity driven.

A “Breathing” Meeting Room: More Than Just Design, A Practical Solution

The idea of “breathing” goes beyond a visual metaphor. It represents a spatial approach that prioritizes indoor environmental quality. By integrating optimized air circulation, natural lighting, and green elements, the meeting room is designed to reduce fatigue, enhance focus, and improve user comfort during extended working hours.

This concept is highly relevant in the modern workplace, where offices are no longer just places to work but also spaces for collaboration, creativity, and employee well-being. In this sense, the design serves as a practical solution to promote healthier and more productive work environments.

Material Innovation: Galvanized Steel Beyond Structure

A key strength of the project lies in its material exploration. The team introduces the concept of “Refined Industrial Biophilic,” combining industrial aesthetics with natural elements. The primary material, FUMIRA galvanized steel, is not only used structurally but is creatively applied to partitions, wall panels, modular furniture, and interior details.

This approach results in a refined industrial look that feels modern, clean, and professional while maintaining material efficiency and long-term durability. It demonstrates how industrial materials can be transformed into design solutions that are not only robust but also sustainable and visually appealing.

Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature into the Workspace

To balance the strong character of steel, the design incorporates a biophilic approach. Indoor vegetation, green walls, and natural color palettes are integrated to create a more refreshing and comfortable atmosphere.

These natural elements contribute positively to users’ psychological well-being by reducing stress, improving concentration, and creating a more human-centered spatial experience. This is where the concept of a “breathing” space truly comes to life dynamic, responsive, and user-oriented.

Flexible and Adaptive: Responding to Future Workspaces

The meeting room is also designed under a smart office concept, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability. The modular layout allows the space to transform seamlessly from a formal meeting room into a collaborative or communal space without losing its identity.

Interior elements are not merely separators but also act as interactive features and visual identity markers. Fluid circulation, adaptable furniture configurations, and integrated acoustic elements ensure the space supports diverse working activities efficiently.

From Competition to Real Impact

For the team, participating in the competition was not solely about winning but also about developing critical and exploratory thinking. Their process involved in depth analysis of the competition brief, design research, and the formulation of solutions considering ergonomics, lighting, materials, and sustainability.

This achievement highlights that ITK students are capable of delivering design solutions that are not only visually compelling but also practical and impactful for real world applications.

They hope this accomplishment will inspire fellow students to actively participate in competitions and continuously push their boundaries. Innovation, after all, is not born from perfection, but from the courage to explore, learn, and create.