Alcon
A Purpose-Built Space from the Ground Up
As the global leader in eye care, Alcon partnered with Trend Group to bring their new Johannesburg facility to life. The result: a sophisticated, future-fit workplace that reflects the brand’s mission to help people see brilliantly through both design and experience. This 1200 sqm ground-floor space was developed in collaboration with Abland as a brand-new build. The brief called for a workplace that could balance high-performance zones with people-first design. The result includes a range of environments, from tech labs and production floors to client-facing areas, training rooms, a canteen, and even prayer and mother’s rooms, each designed to support focus, flexibility, and connection.
Clarity in Every Detail
Glass plays a central role in the design, enhancing openness and connection throughout the office. The architectural language speaks to transparency, mirroring Alcon’s brand promise of clarity and brilliant vision.
Texture and pattern are layered throughout the space: woven upholstery, subtle motifs in floor finishes, and sculptural ceiling features. These thoughtful details catch the eye and add dimension to the minimalist foundation, echoing Alcon’s belief that beauty is in the details.
Colour Psychology Meets Brand Energy
Vivid hues inspired by Alcon’s visual identity bring specific zones to life. A cooler palette of whites, greys, blues, and turquoise enhances motivation and collaboration in work zones, while warmer neutrals create calm in breakout and pause areas. This deliberate use of colour ensures a balanced energy throughout the space.
A Space That Supports People
Biophilic elements are used strategically to bring life and vitality to the workplace. Natural greenery softens the tech-heavy functions of the space, reinforcing wellness and a sense of growth. Private nooks were also built into the plan, perfect for quiet calls or impromptu meetings. With managers working in open-plan areas, these nooks provide much-needed moments of privacy without interrupting the overall flow of the space.
Sustainability was built into the project from the start. At Alcon’s request, local suppliers were prioritised for both construction and furnishings, resulting in 90% of the project being locally sourced. It’s a decision that reduced environmental impact while directly supporting South Africa’s design and manufacturing industries.
Circularity as a Design Motif
Circular forms, subtly embedded in the architecture and décor, pay homage to Alcon’s core product – contact lenses. From lighting fixtures to floor layouts, these repeated shapes offer a gentle visual cue that ties the space back to its brand essence.
Flexible, Focused Workstyles
Designed as a true retreat, the beach house inspired canteen offers a sensory contrast to the operational zones. With calming textures, warm finishes, and soft lighting, it encourages employees to fully relax, recharge, and return to work refreshed.
Neutral hot-desk zones offer flexibility while inviting calm and focus. Designed to be easily adaptable, these areas support both quiet individual work and dynamic team collaboration, ensuring Alcon’s teams can thrive in any mode.
