Office Aquarium

This aquarium was a key feature of an office design project for a Birmingham based web development company. As part of their growth and development strategy, they relocated to a converted Victorian foundry in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham. The aim behind this relocation was to improve the client experience and brand identity of the company, by creating an environment that was rich with biophilic design. This not only reflected a level of aspiration to new and existing clients but also inspired and motivated employees to create exceptional value.

The aquarium was situated in the centre of the office overlooking the dining area and pool table. It was important that this feature was easily accessible to staff members so they could benefit from its calming effect during breaks. The piece they chose was a selection from our range of standalone furniture aquariums, measuring 600mm x 600mm x 1700mm tall. The design of this aquarium drew influences from German kitchen design with a signature of clean lines, and a contemporary finish that’s easily viewable from a seated or standing position.

This was a hand-built unit made of 15mm low iron glass with edges cut at 45 degrees to create mitred seams all bonded together with black silicone. The cabinet comprised of an aluminium frame cladded by sprayed composite panels which were also cut at a 45-degree angle to continue the clean lines from the glass above.

Post-installation we worked with the client introducing different ways of engaging with the tank in the space to improve the overall health and wellbeing of individuals in the team. Over the course of this project, Videre Aquariums saw the purpose of the aquarium evolve from solely being an interior design feature into a therapeutic tool to reduce work-related stress and anxiety.