Designed by Gensler, Sanofi’s Hyderabad Hub transforms the workplace into a welcoming, homeinspired environment that celebrates local culture, inclusivity, and employee well-being while supporting the company’s growing global operations.
Designed by Gensler, The Hyderabad Sanofi Hub design embodies the concept of “The House of Dreams.” Envisioned as a home away from home for employees, the design prioritizes comfort and a welcoming atmosphere. Corporate vibes are replaced by thoughtfully selected furniture that fosters a sense of familiarity and warmth, reflecting the spirit of an Indian home. This design celebrates the local culture while creating a space where employees feel valued and relaxed.
Accessorized like a home, every element- from locally sourced furniture to art installation by a local transgender community- is carefully picked with care and purpose. Artistic interventions highlight diversity, equity and inclusion through art. “House of dreams” started as a design concept evolved into a movement—shaping hiring, branding, and every gathering within the space.
As Sanofi continues to evolve its global footprint, the Hyderabad Hub now supports a growing range of functions, expanding its role in meeting the company’s operational needs. The site is positioned to become one of Sanofi’s largest hubs, playing a key role in supporting teams around the world. Sanofi is an R&D-driven, AI-powered biopharma company committed to improving people’s lives and delivering compelling growth.
As Hyderabad continues to emerge as a leading tech hub after Bengaluru, the need for holistic workspaces that function as integrated ecosystems has become increasingly essential. Sanofi’s office features an iconic work cafe at its heart, fostering connection & collaboration among employees. Inclusivity & community are integral aspects of daily life, breaking down barriers & empowering individuals to bring their authentic selves to work. Artistic interventions highlight diversity, equity, and inclusion through art.
Holistic care in nursing recognizes the interconnectedness of a person’s social, emotional, spiritual & physical well-being. Designated nursing rooms are available for employed parents to promote their holistic physical & emotional well-being.As an extension of ‘One Sanofi story’, these spaces resonate the concept of improving people’s lives through design as well.
Activity-based working encourages people to plan their day efficiently and physically locate themselves where it is most suitable for them to complete their work, depending on the nature of the work or task. The new office offers a tailored work environment with a variety of workstations that fits our daily work activities, like a cinema and game room for leisure and social interaction among employees.
Sanofi’s collaborative spaces are strategically designed to enhance teamwork and creativity. There are open workspaces promoting spontaneous interactions, meeting rooms equipped for effective communication, and breakout areas fostering focused brainstorming.
From culinary excellence and enticing spices of authentic Indian dishes to delectable continental dishes, under one roof, designed to provide unique and memorable experiences. The elegant dining spaces are adorned with Indian-touch fabrics and carpets that welcome us with warmth and exuberance.
This project faced several design challenges, each of which required innovative solutions to overcome. One of the primary challenges was striking a balance between the complexities of Indian culture, Sanofi’s global design guidelines, and creating a welcoming work environment. The design team had to ensure that the space felt authentic and inspiring without resorting to cliché design elements. This involved a thoughtful balance of spatial innovation and cultural references to Indian hospitality.
Another significant challenge was the introduction of a central staircase. In traditional Indian homes, staircases are often more than just functional connectors; they can be intricately designed and serve as central gathering spaces. The Hub reimagined this concept with a modern twist, featuring a wide, inviting design with integrated seating nooks to encourage informal interaction and collaboration. The material palette incorporated locally sourced wood, echoing the warmth and textures found in Indian homes.
Furthermore, the design avoided stereotypical cultural references like elephant motifs or overly bright colors. Instead, it subtly incorporated design elements that evoke a sense of Indian heritage. For example, traditional geometric patterns were reinterpreted into modern wall art installations. Natural light, a crucial aspect of Indian architecture, was maximized through expansive windows and skylights, creating a sense of openness and vibrancy. The furniture selection also played a vital role, blending handcrafted pieces made with indigenous materials alongside modern ergonomic furniture.
By focusing on these subtle yet impactful design choices, the workspace celebrates the diverse and vibrant culture of India, while simultaneously fostering a sense of comfort and familiarity for employees. This innovative approach goes beyond mere aesthetics; it creates a non-corporate work environment that is truly representative of the people who use it, fostering a sense of belonging, familiarity and pride.
Sustainability through local impact
The project embraced sustainability through various dimensions, ensuring a holistic approach to environmental responsibility.
Sustainability was a core principle throughout the Hyderabad Hub design. The project prioritized local sourcing for the majority of furniture, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. This approach not only minimized environmental impact but also supported the vibrant Indian craft industry.
Additionally, housed within the LEED Gold-certified RMZ Spire, the Sanofi Hub itself has achieved LEED Platinum certification, with WELL certification underway. Every design choice, from material selection to spatial planning, aligns with Sanofi’s global vision of improving lives through thoughtful innovation. By incorporating energyefficient systems, maximizing natural light, and utilizing recycled materials where possible, the aim was to create a healthy and sustainable work environment for the employees.
The design team also focused on reusing materials wherever feasible. For instance, the material palette incorporated locally sourced wood, echoing the warmth and textures found in Indian homes. This not only added to the aesthetic appeal but also ensured the use of sustainable materials.
Furthermore, the project aimed to be economically sustainable by balancing cost-effectiveness with high-quality design. The furniture selection included a mix of handcrafted pieces made with indigenous materials alongside modern ergonomic furniture. This blend reflects the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity in contemporary Indian life. The building design includes 3,000 sqm of vertical gardens and electric charging stations are available for convenience.
