Beijing company S-GAME enlists LYCS Architecture to create a fantastical yet practical workplace inspired by their hit game Phantom Blade.
The S-GAME headquarters, designed by LYCS Architecture, is an immersive office space that embodies the essence of the company’s gaming world. Located in the China Electronics Building within the Zhong Guan Cun Science Park in Haidian, Beijing, the office spans approximately 1,500 square meters. S-GAME, a leading developer of mobile games and original IP content in China, aimed to reflect its innovative spirit and the thematic elements of its popular “Phantom Blade” series within its new office environment.
Shadow Realm Inspiration
The design of the S-GAME office draws heavy inspiration from the “Phantom Blade” game’s setting, known as the “Shadow Realm,” a semi-fantastical world that combines traditional Chinese martial arts with steampunk elements. This influence is evident in the office’s dark aesthetic, where black tones dominate the space, creating a sense of depth and mystery. The use of black floors, walls, and furniture, contrasted with white elements in the CEO’s office, encapsulates the duality of light and dark, mirroring the game’s narrative themes.
One of the key design features includes architectural columns enveloped in energy body motifs, symbolizing the freezing of dynamic energy fields. These columns, alongside tree-shaped canopy structures, form natural gathering spaces such as meeting rooms and recreational areas. The meeting rooms are designed with custom black gradient glass partitions, providing both transparency and an ethereal visual effect, akin to being inside glass bubbles.
The centerpiece of the office, the tea bar, functions as a communal hub, fostering interaction and collaboration among employees. This space features large steps, Vondom bar chairs, and various tables and chairs arranged around a tree-canopy structure, creating a relaxed and innovative atmosphere. Additionally, the entrance to the office area includes an infinite mirror installation, enhancing the visual illusion of an infinitely extending space, further blurring the lines between reality and the virtual game world.
Every element within the S-GAME office, from the unique forms of door handles to customized conference tables, has been meticulously designed to integrate the fantastical elements of the game into the physical workspace. This attention to detail ensures that the office is not just a place of work but an extension of the gaming universe that S-GAME’s team has created. The project stands as a testament to the seamless integration of form and function, providing an environment that is both practical and deeply immersive, reflecting the company’s creative ethos and its commitment to innovative design.
The S-GAME office by LYCS Architecture is a physical manifestation of the company’s gaming world, designed to inspire and immerse its employees in the very essence of the games they create. This project is a perfect example of how office spaces can transcend their functional roles to become integral parts of a company’s identity and culture.
Project Planning
The planning process for the S-GAME office was significantly influenced by insights and directives from the company’s top executive, Mr. Liang. He emphasized that the design of the office should serve as a magnet for top-tier talent in the industry.
I want to be able to recruit the best people in the industry once this office is completed.
This strategic direction from Mr. Liang underscored the importance of creating an office space that not only meets functional needs but also serves as a compelling draw for potential employees.
Mr. Liang envisioned that new hires should instantly feel a connection between the office environment and the company’s gaming products on a spiritual level. This alignment is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging and engagement among employees. The design was intended to reflect the creativity and innovation inherent in S-GAME’s game designs, thereby creating an immersive and inspiring workspace.
Understanding the creative nature of both LYSC and their company, the importance of crafting an environment that is both surprising and comfortable was recognized. Employees spend a significant portion of their day in the office, and it was essential to design a space that they would find stimulating and pleasant. This approach was not only about aesthetics but also about enhancing employee well-being and productivity.
This vision aligns with a forward-thinking perspective, especially considering the preferences of the younger workforce, such as those born in the 1990s and 2000s. These generations place a higher value on the quality of their work environment, often considering it a critical factor in their career choices. They demand more from their workspace, seeking environments that support their professional and personal growth over the 8-10 hours they spend there daily.
The office design incorporated these insights, resulting in a space that balances functionality with a deep connection to the company’s creative output. Unique design requirements, such as the integration of game-inspired elements and the use of advanced materials and finishes, were thoroughly researched and implemented to achieve this vision. The result is a workspace that not only attracts top talent but also fosters a sense of pride and inspiration among all employees.
Project Details
One significant inspiration for this design is the concept of a tree and its canopy. Under a tree, people can engage in various activities such as reading, picnicking, or simply waiting for inspiration to strike, much like Newton did. This semi-enclosed, continuous canopy structure offers a defined yet open space, providing new possibilities when translated into an office environment. By incorporating tree-shaped canopy structures into the office, LYCS Architecture challenges the traditional “box” design of workspace, creating an innovative and fluid spatial experience that encourages creativity and interaction.
Among the most unique features of the space are the customized furnishings and structural elements that reflect the game’s world. For instance, the S-shaped door handle in the CEO’s office evolves from the S-GAME logo, and various elements like pen holders and tissue boxes are designed to appear as if they are flowing like molten metal. These design choices not only enhance the visual appeal but also create a cohesive narrative that connects the physical space with the virtual gaming world.
Products
AVA DINING ARMCHAIR – Roche Bobois
Chair – Vondom
Orbital Table – calligaris
Overall Project Results
Most employees appreciated the innovative and immersive design of the office, noting that it significantly enhanced their work experience. The open, fluid spaces were particularly praised for promoting creativity and collaboration, essential qualities for a game development company. Employees also felt a stronger connection to the company’s mission, as the office design closely mirrored the themes of S-GAME’s “Phantom Blade” series.
One of the unexpected outcomes was the office’s impact on recruitment and retention. As Mr. Liang had hoped, the unique and inspiring environment proved to be a significant draw for top industry talent. New hires often cited the office design as a major factor in their decision to join S-GAME. This alignment between workspace and corporate identity helped reinforce the company’s brand and values.
Contributors
Main Contractor – Hangzhou Sesame Decoration Design Engineering Co., Ltd.
Their expertise in handling complex designs and implementing innovative building techniques ensured that the vision of LYCS Architecture was effectively realized.
Design Team
- Ruan Hao
- Lai Zhenyu
- Xu Sheng
- Sheng Weiwen
- Du Xiaojie
- Zhang Yang (Interior)
- Zhang Qiuyan
- Zhao Yifan
- Ke Anran
- Yan Tao (FF&E)
Photography
Zhu Yumeng
