Global Vision, Local Roots: Incorporating Vernacular Design in the Workspace

“At adrianse*, we believe that architecture should reflect the essence of its environment while aligning with the global visual identity the brand has built. By weaving local design elements into our global projects, we honour the distinct cultural heritage of each place while ensuring that the workspace remains functional, sustainable, and globally relevant.”? -Archie Cruda, Creative Director.

As businesses expand their footprints across countries, regions, cultures, and markets, maintaining a cohesive brand identity while staying locally relevant is paramount. At adrianse*, we believe that design has the power to achieve this pursuit.

While global growth is the objective, integrating the essence of local culture becomes essential in fostering meaningful connections with multiple stakeholders - internally and externally. One of the ways we work towards achieving this balance is through the adoption of vernacular architecture and localised design technologies. Our designers leverage this approach to create spaces that not only reflect a company’s global identity but also embody the unique cultural and environmental characteristics in the local context.?

In Singapore, we approached the design of a multinational software company’s office with a vision that embodies the ethos of dualism, balancing the organisation’s intrinsic values with the rich cultural and environmental context of the city-state. By seamlessly integrating the company’s identity with local influences, such as Peranakan-inspired colours and patterns, the space captures the vibrancy and fluidity of Singaporean culture.

Beyond design elements, the thoughtful use of colour further strengthens the connection between the space and its cultural roots, reinforcing its identity. For instance, a leading international life insurance company drew inspiration from India’s profound cultural heritage. Drawing on a palette of hues- amber, fuchsia, teal, green, blue, and purple- workspace becomes a vivid expression of India’s diversity while also embodying the organisation’s core values of trust, care, and innovation.

Each colour holds meaning: amber radiates warmth and energy; fuchsia symbolises boldness and vibrancy; teal conveys calm and balance; green represents growth and renewal; blue embodies trust and stability; and purple stands for creativity and forward-thinking.

?In a similar vein, the design journey of another project illustrates the seamless integration of global identity with local relevance. Named "Pravah," which means "flow" in Sanskrit, the project captures movement, continuity, and evolution values deeply embedded in both the company’s legacy and the local environment. The design thoughtfully incorporates locally sourced Indian stone, green steel, and sustainable materials such as concrete and metal finishes, reflecting the company’s global identity while anchoring it in a local context.?

We understand that meaningful connections begin with understanding the local context. By thoughtfully integrating cultural heritage, native materials, and local indigenous elements in our designs, we ensure that each project resonates with the communities they serve. This careful balance between global identities and local influence enhances brand credibility, engagement with local ecosystems, develops a sense of familiarity, and creates long lasting impressions.