Government Services Office, DIFC

A very recent project that is making ‘waves’ (reference to its unique ceiling), is the Government Services Office in DIFC, designed by the innovative and cutting edge Opaal Interiors. And tasked with the complete fitout, including MEP and joinery for the entire project, was the very experienced team at Bond Interiors.

The brands used in the design are laundry list of the finest offered in the products world, and even more impressive is their adaptation into this unique office space.

The client wanted a combined hub for their services of immigration, registry and properties, all under one entity. And located in the heart of DIFC, alongside the courts, these offices also serve as a passage through to other DIFC units.

The overall design has been given a timeless, modern approach, with the pièce de résistance undoubtedly being the ‘wave’ ceiling that illuminates the front of house, with wooden ceilings surrounding it that serve as ventilation grills. The various spaces are innovative and professional with subtle tones of green and brown to create an area that is modern and detailed, while colourful furniture adds an element of quirky elegance.

Tarek Shafagoj, lead designer on the project enlightens us on the design concept: “The Government Services Office is a smart design with an interior that facilitates multi tasking, and tackles the process of a customer’s journey, creating social and professional platforms.” On the key challenges experienced, he mentions that these offices were meant to replace DIFC’s old conference centre. “So many of the existing MEP couldn’t be moved or relocated, along with the fact that they were still supplying other DIFC services and departments. The ceiling then had to form and shape up to wrap around, and respect its existing environment without any disturbance.” A hurdle they handled with finesse.

The designer mentions that their favourite interior element is most certainly the ‘wave ceiling’. “It is not your typical rigid ceiling; it’s lightness in motion,” says Tarek.