The project is a creative work space where startups develop and ultimately prove their technology. In addition, the location is used as a hub for keynote speeches of the Venture Client Model as well as for networking events.
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The Garage provides a clear distribution and separation of working areas, whilst still remaining very flexible and accommodating a variety of uses and happenings. We approached this by questioning the open office concept and giving it a fresh twist to avoid its pitfalls.
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The inspiration for our open plan design of the BMW Startup Garage was a bazaar, which deliberately deviates from traditional work environments. As in a bazaar, passages cross the space so users are guided through it and can discover new things, swap ideas and find inspiration. In addition to a presentation area with a large atrium, a number of retreats and a meeting zone, the space includes numerous different clearly delineated work areas. These are located on different levels which ensures both visual and acoustic privacy.
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In a world in which the number of co-working spaces has grown considerably in the last few years, we have all come to expect something special about our working environments. Here is a design that clearly distinguishes itself: it is as buzzing and exciting as a bazaar and can also be as calm and reassuring as one’s own home.

This project was led and managed by Sebastian Ritzler while working as Managing Director at gravity GmbH.
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Bildrechte: Jens Heilmann for BMW Startup Garage