Not all offices have these areas, but in some cases they are essential areas for the development of the activity, as in architecture, engineering or interior design studios, publishers or even perfumery or fashion.

The key is to make them functional areas, which give service to designers, and at the same time, that they are aesthetically integrated into the overall office project.

Sample rooms in studios

Architecture and interior design studios require specific areas to display samples of materials (coatings, textiles, wallpapers, etc.),  in order to consult and teach their clients. These showrooms are areas that must respond to the company's needs, in terms of location and dimension.

An material library inside an office is a space organized and functional dedicated to the exploration, selection and documentation of materials. They are spaces of consultation and information, which simultaneously inspire and facilitate project decision-making by allowing tactile, visual and technical access to real samples.

Characteristics of the exhibition spaces

In general terms, they should be well-maintained spaces. illuminated, near the design area or meeting room, for easy reference during project development.

It is preferable that the lighting is neutral and uniform, preferably neutral white light (5000–6500 K) to faithfully perceive colors, textures and finishes.

In addition, there must be space around the display furniture for easy access. And of course, the space must be ordered millimetrically and clean. Dust or moisture can damage the samples, so a dry, easy-to-maintain space is recommended.

Furniture and displays

The design of the furniture depends on the type and quantity of materials, but in general it should favor the vavailability, access and classification.

For magazines and printed material, it is recommended vertical displays with support to keep the publication upright and visible. Magazine racks are not only practical for printed copies; they can also be used to display material samples. In architectural and engineering firms, specific furniture is used for filing plans.

The modular shelving, No more than 160 cm high, these are very practical for displaying material samples, as they allow direct, easy-to-reach viewing. Open or glass doors are preferable if the material is delicate and needs to be protected from dust.

For samples samples small, thin or delicate (laminates, papers, textiles, etc.), drawer units with closed drawers and labels that identify the contents are used.

In the sample areas there is usually a large exploration table in the center of the room to display several samples simultaneously and facilitate comparison. It's advisable to have them close to natural light and with space around them for team collaboration.

Alexandria Bookstore by Limobel Inwo

Limobel Inwo's modular designs, such as the Alexandria bookstore, They have a wide variety of components that allow organize and structure the shelf according to each need of use. Its design is intended for Public spaces or of large dimensions (libraries, universities, study areas, etc.), where the use of the bookstore is carried out on a daily basis. Furthermore, in publishing companies (books, newspapers or magazines), where a multitude of printed material is handled. Also in design, marketing and communication agencies the bookstores Alexandria They are very useful, since companies can display their graphic work and creativity in front of clients.

La alexandria bookshelf offers a wide variety of plugins such as newspaper holder, bookend and carries CDs. The structure has ergonomic measures focused on all types of users.

It has inclined Shelves, manufactured in 0.8 mm thick laminated steel, with an inclination to expose books, newspapers, magazines, etc. Also, newspaper holder formed by 0.8 mm steel rods to hang newspapers and magazines. It is available in different widths to fit the needs of the company. 

How to organize materials

You don't need to be a librarian or an archival expert to properly classify materials. All you need is a little bit of common sense and logic.

They are generally classified by type (stones, ceramics, textiles, innovative materials, carpets, etc.). Within these broad segments, they are categorized by manufacturer in alphabetical order.

It's important that samples have clear labeling that includes, in addition to the manufacturer's name, the composition, model, relevant properties, and recommended uses. Textiles are a great example of how to properly label a material. 

Digitizing all this material is vital to accessing the documentation with a simple click via a QR code. This will allow for up-to-date material, eliminating duplicates and out-of-print items, and incorporating new features.

Photos: OfficeSnapShot