How to create a clubhouse
The recently unveiled offices of the Dutch Association of Real Estate Agents and Real Estate Experts, known as NVM, defy the typical corporate headquarters archetype. The design intent was to create a space reminiscent of a clubhouse. Silo meticulously crafted a spatial identity that illuminates the collective values, heritage, and identity unique to NVM.
Client
NVM – Nederlandse Vereniging van Makelaars
A Paradigm Shift: Post-Pandemic Office Ecosystem
In the wake of the pandemic, the role of offices has shifted. They are no longer mere workstations but have transformed into hubs for collaboration, workshops, knowledge exchange, and community engagement. Nestled around a spacious, well-lit atrium, the newly constructed NVM office encompasses all the necessary elements of a contemporary, sustainable, and health-conscious workplace. To the architectural design, Silo added a spatial narrative that connects people—be it employees, members, executives, trainees, or partners—with both the organization and the physical space.
To emphasise the organisation’s origin and history in Utrecht, the main meeting room features a map of the city. Upon closer inspection, the map is constructed from code of honour that all members have signed.
Entrepreneurship, innovation and service-mindedness
NVM is the largest association of real estate agents and appraisers in the Netherlands. Almost 75 per cent of Dutch houses are sold through its members. At its core, NVM values entrepreneurship, innovation, and a service-oriented ethos. The headquarters serve as the official certification site, a meeting point, and a hub for educational courses for members. It is the ultimate gathering place to experience the NVM brand and what it stands for.
Representing all of the individual members of the association, the tactile NVM logo at the entrance comprises of wax seals in different sizes and colours.
NVM as a community
Our goal was to focus on NVM as a community, rather than a corporation. Placing the members at the heart, the concept makes the organization more approachable, fosters a sense of connection, and encourages collaborative efforts and shared celebrations of success. A thorough exploration of NVM’s history and practices revealed the key elements defining its club-like identity.
The office interior is a perfect backdrop to make and share memories of the NVM collective.
The elements used for privacy foils relate to the function of the room.
Honour, heritage and data
The resulting design draws inspiration from the honour code, a pivotal document signed by all members during certification—an essential cornerstone of the association. Also, references were made to the realtor seals historically used to formalize real estate transactions.
And finally, we looked into the data usage that is integral to modern real estate practices. By seamlessly incorporating these narratives and symbols into the interior, the values of NVM are not only made visible and tangible but also succeed in transforming the office space into a true clubhouse.
Silo also designed straightforward wayfinding that matches the interior.
