Elastiko: Innovation and sustainability in workspace design

Elastiko is an architecture studio based in Barcelona, multidisciplinary and flexible, capable of adapting to the particularities of each project without losing its essence: an innovative perspective, committed to society and the environment. Under the direction of Iker Alzola, the studio has managed to establish itself as a benchmark in the design of new ways of working, where functionality and humanity are intertwined. Today we speak with the director to discover more about NN Workingflex, a project in the office area of Grup Núñez i Navarro under the design of Elastiko that not only transforms a building but also proposes a new way of understanding work.

A trajectory of Elastiko marked by international experience and specialization of the director

After studying Architecture in San Sebastián, Iker began his career in Barcelona during the 2008 crisis. "This led me to look for opportunities outside of Spain and that's how I arrived in London, where I worked for five years at Foster & Partners," he comments. During this period, he participated in major projects, including the design of Apple's headquarters in Cupertino, California. "That experience allowed me to understand the new trends in work environments and the importance of designing places that encourage creativity and collaboration."

Upon returning to Barcelona, Iker decided to forge his own path. "I felt that I had gained valuable knowledge that I could apply here. That's how I founded Elastiko, with the goal of developing concepts that would respond to the new ways of working". Currently, the studio has a specialized and constantly growing team, developing projects in both the public and private sectors.

A new concept of the work environment

One of the most recent projects of Elastiko has been the creation of NN workingflex, the first model of flexible offices promoted by Grup Núñez i Navarro. "They contacted us because they wanted to develop an innovative concept, and we had the experience in flexible work environments and innovation hubs", explains Iker. The

The chosen location was Pau Claris 194-196, a historic building right in the center of Barcelona. "It's a perfect location, close to Avinguda Diagonal and Passeig de Gràcia, which also had unique architectural features.”

The outcome is not just a place to work, but an experience designed to enhance collaboration, well-being, and efficiency. "It's not just about renting square footage, but about offering a complete experience. They are ready-to-use spaces, with common areas designed to create real synergies among people," he adds.

The future of work: flexibility, efficiency, and purpose

Elastiko is committed to designing environments that adapt to the changing needs of businesses. “We work with technologies and strategies that optimize use, from modular solutions to proposals that encourage interaction and creativity.” But their approach goes beyond functionality. “Design directly influences productivity and talent retention. A well-conceived space motivates, engenders loyalty, and reflects the values of the company. It must be functional and sustainable, yes, but also convey the essence of those who inhabit it.”

A commitment to sustainability

Sustainability is a cross-cutting axis in all Elastiko's projects. "In architecture, sustainability is no longer an option, it's a necessity. In the public sector, competitions already include sustainability criteria that can represent up to a third of the total score. In the private sector, more and more clients demand it because it also represents a long-term economic advantage".

For Elastiko, energy efficiency is key. "Office buildings are major energy consumers. If we design using passive criteria, such as optimizing natural light and good orientation, we can reduce consumption without the need for large technological investments", states the director. In addition, Elastiko works with sustainable materials and recycling strategies. "Customers highly value these initiatives, and companies looking for flexible environments do too."

Between tradition and modernity

NN workingflex at Pau Claris 194-196 engages directly with Barcelona. One of the most striking elements is the ceiling, where the Catalan vaults become a focal point

special. Unlike traditional ones, these feature a large format, creating an imposing and unique presence. The decision to highlight them reinforces the connection with the architectural tradition of the Eixample.

Another fundamental aspect were the party walls, solid brick walls that separate properties and are difficult to find today. The decision was made to completely strip these walls and leave them exposed, allowing their original hues to become part of the character of the surroundings. During this restoration process, old doors that connected to the adjacent building, now the Seventy Barcelona. These connections were part of the former Bayer headquarters, and although they have been sealed up, they have been preserved as witnesses to the industrial past of the place.

The pavement also pays tribute to the Barcelona tradition with the use of hydraulic tiles, a characteristic material of modernism. The combination of these elements allows the design to engage with the city's history while adapting to a modern and functional concept.

For the development of the project, the architecture was done in-house, while the interior design was carried out in collaboration with Estudio Rosa Rosselló and the internal team of Grup Núñez i Navarro. The key was to play with a coherent color palette, where earth tones predominate on the fourth floor.

Looking towards the future

Elastiko continues to evolve constantly, exploring new trends and collaborating with companies that share its vision. "Our goal is to continue innovating and designing work models that truly make a difference. We believe that the future of the workplace lies in adaptability, sustainability, and the integration of technology."

With a clear vision and a passion for transforming people's everyday lives, Iker Alzola and his team continue to establish Elastiko as a benchmark in the industry. "We want to keep transforming the way companies work and create. For us, a well-thought-out environment is not just architecture: it's culture, it's innovation, it's the future," concludes Iker.