Given a century-old brick atrium in which to build a 5,500-square-metre co-working space, Linehouse opted for a festive theme that dynamically contrasts with the industrial surroundings. A reception desk in heritage wood exemplifies the transition from old to new; from here, an ivy-green staircase meanders up three levels, while a brass scaffolding (with counters, shelves and mirrors mounted atop a pastel-striped terrazzo platform) frames the main floor. The pièce de résistance is a custom lighting installation that fills the cavernous three-storey space: Pink and grey cables attached to bronze rings dangle globe pendants – heavy materials that create a criss-crossing effect of surprising lightness.

Project: WeWork Weihai Lu China Flagship Location: Shanghai, China Firm: Linehouse, China

Team: Briar Hickling and Alex Mok with Cherng Yu Chen, Evelyn Chiu and Zhao Yun