
A collaboration between global architecture firm Foster + Partners and Italian office furniture-maker Unifor, the XYZ Office System allows for top-level customization to create tailored workspaces.
The three parts that comprise the modular system – a shelving unit (X), a lightweight conference table (Y) and an intuitive sit/stand desk (Z) – can be used separately or together and were developed with a human-centric approach that intends to uplift the mood and general well-being of office environments.

Named for the shape formed by the timber or aluminum vertical posts that support it, the X shelving unit does double duty as a space divider with open and clear sightlines. The minimalist design features spring-loaded ceiling supports and adjustable feet connectors that provide stability while also being easily demountable; simply clipped onto concealed fasteners, the wooden shelves can transfer power to an integrated lighting scheme without the need for cumbersome wires. Additional accessories that can be installed on the unit include storage containers, acoustic panels and pin and magnet boards.



Using a restrained amount of material, the Y table is defined by its Y-shaped steel legs, which can be easily reconfigured to accommodate a variety of seating arrangements; the legs are also completely removable for easy transportation and storage. Further, the versatile leg system can be used to attach different tabletops together to create longer and deeper spans, giving the table a flexibility needed for agile workspaces. To establish a sense of privacy in a communal space, a narrow display shelf can be added to the centre of the table, while suspended storage for personal items, a sheet metal cable trough and wiring are located out-of-sight under the tabletop.
Finally, the Z sit/stand desk features a specially engineered mechanism within its aluminum frame that relies on consistent tension – rather than electronics or crank handles – to hold the worktop at any desired height, which can be adjusted by simply pulling up or pushing down the surface. Thus free from power cables, the desk (which will officially launch later this year) can be moved, stored and reconfigured freely.