Doris Gafitanu + Fabian Schubert

Otl Aicher describes his ideal workplace as being a “three-dimensional garden” in which various types of work are carried out on differing planes. Aicher rejects the conventional subdivision of work areas into small spaces. Instead, he prefers open-plan studios owing to the eye contact they render possible.

Aicher values digital communication as a means of simplifying forms of work together. As far as design is concerned, using computers has no future in his (1980s’ perspective) view. Forms of digital art such as NFTs (non-fungible tokens) now to be found in the metaverse would appear to disprove Aicher’s theory.

Virtual living spaces still need architecture. The metaverse facilitates forms of design that could not be implemented in like manner in the physical world. Limits are instead set by file sizes or the computing power of IT systems. The aim of workspace design remains the same: to create a fitting ambience for people.

We transferred Aicher’s ideal workplace to digital space. Place your feet on the floor marking and put the VR headset on. Then open the door to Otl Aicher’s three-dimensional garden and be ready for a big surprise!