Reception desk Basel

Central orientation for a modern office campus in Basel.

A company's first impression is often formed within seconds of entering a building. Especially in large corporate locations with numerous meeting rooms, training facilities, and external visitors, wayfinding within the premises plays a crucial role. This project in Basel aimed to create a central reception point within an existing commercial space. The new reception desk was designed to provide orientation for guests, serve as an information point, and simultaneously reflect the company's identity. The project was implemented in a fully developed section of the building. The challenge lay in integrating a high-quality and functional solution into the existing structure without disrupting the existing workflow. The result is a reception desk that now serves as a central point of contact for employees and visitors, significantly enhancing the entire area.

Reception desk Basel in the existing building structure

The client operates a large corporate campus in Basel with various meeting and training rooms. The approximately 800 square meter area serves both internal meetings and external meetings with guests from Switzerland and abroad.

Although the space was already well-developed, a clearly defined reception area was lacking. Visitors regularly faced the same challenges:

• lack of orientation within the area

• no central information point

• no defined contact point for guests

• Uncertainty regarding registration and visitor guidance

At the same time, the spatial requirements were challenging.

The existing building extension was already complete. The numerous meeting rooms, traffic routes, and functional areas could not be altered. Furthermore, the available sources of daylight were located far from the intended site. Additional challenges included:

• limited space

• existing building structure

• predetermined budget framework

• Subsequent integration of electricity and IT

• flexible dismantling of the structure

The client wanted a solution that would blend harmoniously into the existing architecture while simultaneously creating a natural counterpoint to concrete, glass, and vinyl flooring.

Interior design Basel with a focus on visitor guidance

The central question of the project was how to optimally integrate a reception desk in Basel into the existing floor plan.

The existing spatial structure was deliberately preserved. Instead, a position was chosen that supports the natural flow of visitors and ensures good visibility within the space. The new reception desk fulfills several functions simultaneously:

• Welcoming guests

• Information gathering

• Orientation within the building

• Coordination of meetings

• Support for visitor guidance

The design of the counter was intended to create a deliberate contrast to the existing architecture. While the building is characterized by exposed concrete, glass, and technical surfaces, the new reception area was conceived as a warm and natural element. The material concept is therefore based on:

• high-quality wood surfaces

• custom-made carpentry work

• integrated workplaces

• additional carpet areas

This created an area that is both functional and atmospheric.

Important decisions in the project

A key decision concerned the positioning of the counter.

She had to:

• be clearly visible

• Respect existing paths

• remain flexible and usable

• function independently of the building structure

The choice of materials was equally important.

The wood was deliberately chosen to bring warmth and a pleasant atmosphere to the room. At the same time, the design was intended to support the company's identity and convey a modern, professional image. Another important decision was to have INBYKO handle the complete detailed planning. Instead of leaving the detailed design to the carpenter, the entire structure was planned in 3D and developed down to the production level. This allowed for:

• Details will be agreed upon early.

• Interfaces will be reduced

• Production data can be directly transferred

• Quality of execution is ensured

This approach enabled exceptionally precise implementation.

Interior renovation in Basel while operations continue

The implementation required close collaboration between various departments. Preparing the technical infrastructure was particularly important. Since no reception facilities were originally planned, all connections had to be integrated subsequently.

• power supply

• IT connections

• Workplace infrastructure

• lighting

The following trades were involved:

• electrician

• joiner

• floor layer

• painter

The focus was on the carpentry work. Measuring approximately 8 x 3 meters, it was a complex piece of furniture consisting of numerous individual parts. Many elements had to be assembled and adjusted on site.

The biggest challenge during implementation was the tight timeframe and the high precision required for assembly.

Despite the complex construction, the project was completed on schedule.

Reception desk in Basel as a central point of contact

The new reception desk in Basel has significantly improved the use of the space. Visitors now receive clear orientation immediately upon entering the area. The new layout offers:

• central information point

• improved visitor guidance

• professional greeting

• improved quality of stay

• stronger identification with the location

The use of wood has significantly improved the atmosphere. The previously technically dominated area now feels warmer and more inviting.

In addition, a lounge area was created opposite the counter, which pleasantly bridges waiting times and further enhances the overall experience. For the customer, this means:

• better organization of visitor flows

• greater comfort for guests

• professional overall impression

• long-term enhancement of the area

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Conclusion

This project demonstrates how targeted interior design and fit-out can create significant added value even within existing commercial spaces. The new Basel reception desk combines function, wayfinding, and design into a holistic solution. Despite limited space and existing spatial structures, a central meeting point was created that improves visitor flow and visually reinforces the company's identity. The detailed planning, extending down to the production level, proved particularly valuable. It enabled precise implementation and underscores the commitment to realizing interior design at a high level, not only aesthetically but also technically. Today, the project serves as a reference for how reception areas in existing office and commercial spaces can be sustainably enhanced through targeted interventions.