Case study:  Assembly

Etihad Rail Office - The UAE's National Rail Project

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

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Etihad Rail stands at the core of the UAE’s transport infrastructure.
 
As the nation’s railway operator, it is set to play a significant role in Abu Dhabi’s 2030 Economic Vision.
 
Its previous office, having served for two decades, had become outdated, worn, and no longer fit for purpose – necessitating a much-needed transformation. The challenge of relocating and redesigning Etihad Rail’s office was entrusted to the experienced team at KPS World. Tasked with creating a space that maintained a sense of familiarity while introducing modernisation and enhanced functionality, KPS was briefed to deliver an environment with the capacity for future growth.

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The first challenge for the KPS team was to overhaul the existing water supply and air conditioning systems. However, an even greater challenge lay in coordinating the work around the ADNEC exhibition, which required navigating restricted access and finding innovative solutions to transport materials and labour to and from the site – without delays or disruptions to the event.
 
Despite these constraints, KPS collaborated with suppliers to develop a distinctive design that reflected the ambition of the organisation. For the flooring solution in meeting rooms and workspaces, the Shaw Contract Assembly collection was selected, complementing the mesh-clad pillars with limestone chippings that emulate the track ballast used beneath railway sleepers. This unique design approach seamlessly blended functionality with symbolism.
 

The choice of carpet tiles focused on harmonising different environments and styles, catering to the evolving needs of modern interior spaces. The Assembly collection was specifically chosen to foster meaningful interactions at the intersection of community, people, and place.

The Support style established a neutral foundation with a textured pattern, while the Convene style built upon this by incorporating a neutral colourway infused with a saturated red hue, creating an organic overlapping effect. The neutral grey, with its subtle texture, provided a sleek and professional aesthetic while offering practicality for high-traffic areas. This versatile choice complemented various office furniture styles and colour schemes, resulting in a balanced and sophisticated environment.
 
Manufactured in the UK at a carbon-neutral facility in Scotland, the collection is optimised for low embodied carbon and maintains a carbon-neutral footprint. It is Cradle-to-Cradle® Certified and holds the Indoor Air Comfort Gold® certification, ensuring high sustainability and indoor air quality standards.

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Despite the restrictions, the creative and executive teams at KPS World successfully completed the project from inception to completion within just four months. The result is a modern, flexible, and highly functional space.
 
The transformation of Etihad Rail’s office stands as a testament to innovative design, strategic planning, and seamless execution. Overcoming logistical challenges and site restrictions, KPS World delivered a workspace that is not only modern and functional but also reflective of the organisation’s ambition and growth.
 
·      Shaw Contract Collections/styles/colours specified: AssemblyConvene Tile in colour Dynamic Link; Support Tile in colour Link
·      Aligned Dealer: KPS World
·      Design and Fit-out: KPS World
·      Total sqm: 550 m2
·      Date of completed project: 2021
·      Photographer: Chris Goldstraw

Modern education facility with gray commercial carpet tile and teal accents, featuring a study area with black chairs and white desks

Asssemby collection 

The places where we work, play, learn and heal are blending, becoming more flexible and multi-functional. Assembly represents a thoughtful approach to the floor that reflects the evolving needs of our interior environments. It sets the foundation for impactful moments, encouraging conversation, collaboration and a sense of belonging. Assembly is meant to encourage meaningful interactions at the intersection of community, people and place.

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