Olvi’s combined laboratory and control room solution demonstrates how a compact space can serve multiple purposes. The working environment was designed around the space, the work being done and the needs of its users.
Olvi’s brewhouse in Iisalmi relocated to new premises that combine laboratory and control room functions. The move also created a need for new furniture solutions that would support smooth and efficient daily work.
Standard office furniture had previously been used in parts of the facilities, but it had not been durable enough for Olvi’s working environment. For the new space, Olvi therefore opted for laboratory-grade furniture solutions capable of withstanding chemicals.
One partner, one cohesive solution
VISU was selected as the project partner based on previous projects, references and expertise.
Olvi initially approached VISU regarding laboratory furniture, but as the discussions progressed, it became clear that VISU CC control room furniture would also meet the requirements of the new space. The result was a complete solution from a single supplier, combining functional furniture with a consistent overall look.
Designing a functional solution
Floor plans, visualisations and 3D models were used to plan the furniture and functionality of the space. VISU’s experts also visited the site to take the necessary measurements.
Olvi’s Brewmaster Silja Hylkinen particularly appreciated the 3D model used during the design process, it helped visualise the furniture layout and determine how much furniture the space could accommodate without feeling crowded. This allowed the functionality of the overall solution to be verified before implementation.
The design and delivery process progressed quickly: only a couple of months passed between the start of the project and the installation of the furniture.
“The design process was easy from our perspective. We didn’t have to determine things such as cabinet sizes or suitable worktop materials ourselves. Instead, we simply explained what the space would be used for and which chemicals would be handled there. Based on this information, VISU provided us with a complete proposal for suitable materials, furniture and their placement.”
– Silja Hylkinen, Brewmaster, Olvi
Functionality and adjustability support smooth daily work
The space and furniture solutions have already proven their functionality in everyday use.
Combining the control room and laboratory in the same space makes the operators’ daily work more efficient. Samples can be handled and results monitored without unnecessary movement between workstations.
The operators particularly appreciate the adjustability of the control room desks. Electric height adjustment of both the desk and monitor zone allows each workstation to be adapted to the individual user, even during a shift.
Monitor arms, mobile drawer units and other adaptable solutions also allow the workstations to be reconfigured as needs change.
