Foster + Partners Unveils XYZ Office System, a Modular, Customizable Workplace Solution

Foster + Partners has introduced the XYZ office system, a modular one that facilitates the design of dynamic and individualized work environments. Developed in tandem with Italian office solutions provider UniFor, the minimalist, adaptable system features a shelving unit (X), a lightweight conference table (Y), and an easy-to-use sit/stand desk (Z). This year’s Salone del Mobile in Milan features X, and Y. Z is scheduled to debut by the end of the year.

©Foster + Partners

Mike Holland, Senior Partner and Head of Industrial Design at Foster + Partners, said, “The XYZ office system is based on a human-centered approach to workspace design. It enables everybody to tweak their workplaces to meet their own needs, which can have a big impact on mood and overall mental health at work.”

The New Versatile XYZ Office System Components

1) Timber Shelving Unit (X)

The X shelving units, so-called for the x-shaped timber or aluminum post that serves as the fundamental component, can be used to rearrange the layout of any office, creating airy partitions that don’t obstruct the view. Separate and quieter workspaces are possible without sacrificing cohesion in the workplace.

The stability and portability of the frame are maintained via spring-loaded ceiling supports and foot connectors. Rather than cables, built-in lighting is powered by shelves clipped onto hidden fixings. Frames allow the simple insertion and removal of modular components such as shelving units, acoustic panels, pinboards, and magnetic whiteboards to adapt to evolving needs.

The shelving unit can be used for both temporary and permanent storage needs. It’s easily expandable, and its sleek, modern design makes it home in professional and private settings. The timber shelves add coziness and texture to any room, while the aluminum shelves have an elegant, contemporary look.

Timber Shelving Unit (X). ©Foster + Partners

2) Table (Y)

©Foster + Partners

The Y Table is an adaptable system requiring little space and accommodating various seating arrangements. The Y-shaped steel legs are removable and adjustable for a variety of seating configurations and for ease of moving and storing. The legs can also join multiple tables, allowing you to create longer and deeper arrangements with minimal effort. Because of this, the table can quickly adapt to changing work environments.

The addition of a slim display shelf down the middle of the table makes it possible to have individual space without sacrificing the group dynamic. Underneath the tabletop are some concealed storage for your belongings, a sheet metal cable trough, and wiring.

©Foster + Partners

3) Desk (Z)

The Z Desk is the culmination of a group effort to design a sit/stand desk that doesn’t rely on electronic mechanisms or cranking handles; it will be released later this year. The desk’s aluminum frame conceals a unique function. The engineered tension remains constant to support the desk at any height.

Simply pulling the work surface up or pushing it down allows for quick and easy height adjustment of the desk. Many other materials, including acoustic textiles and wood veneer, can be used with the frame. The desk’s portability and independence from an external power source make it ideal for dynamic workspace layouts. Desks can be pushed together to form an extended wall across an office or used singly as needed.

UniFor’s Managing Director Carlo Molteni remarked, “The partnership with Foster + Partners for the XYZ office system has been an opportunity, once more, for exploring beyond the typical ways of understanding offices. The modern workplace should be a setting that encourages cooperation, inspiration, and relaxation.”