SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Mar. 5, 2025A successful interplay of different materials, elements, and colors defines the interior of Schneider Engineering’s headquarters in Fulda. Designed by interior designer Simone Möller, the 550 m² space transforms a previously raw concrete structure into an inviting and sustainable workspace that fosters collaboration and well-being.
A Collaboration Built on Shared Vision
Having previously worked together, Christian Schneider, owner of Schneider Engineering, and Möller shared a mutual understanding of durable and long-lasting design principles. "Christian Schneider is a creative person himself with lots of ideas. We noticed that we share similar ideas about how a room should ideally look. He thinks, just like me, that durability and longevity are important aspects," Möller reflects.
Schneider set high expectations for his new headquarters, insisting on a concept that would stand the test of time: "Plan so that nothing stupid happens. I only want to do this once." With this directive, Möller embarked on designing a cutting-edge office space that merged sustainability with a modern aesthetic.
Striking the Right Balance: Warmth Amidst Concrete
To counterbalance the cold, industrial feel of the existing concrete, Möller incorporated natural wood and Cradle-to-Cradle certified furnishing elements. Her goal was to cultivate an atmosphere that not only reflected the company's progressive ethos but also provided employees with an engaging and comfortable environment.
A defining challenge was achieving the goal of making it "the most modern office in Fulda." Schneider had publicly committed to this ambitious standard, even advertising it on posters throughout the city. Möller met this challenge head-on with a design that combined cutting-edge materials, innovative space planning, and high-end furnishings.
A Workplace Beyond the Ordinary
Rather than conforming to a traditional office layout with enclosed individual offices, Möller reimagined the space. She created an open-plan environment featuring an inviting reception area, a communal get-together lounge, and even a bar where colleagues could unwind after work. "So the plan worked," she says confidently, emphasizing the camaraderie fostered by the new setup.
A striking photo wall at the entrance, featuring portraits of all employees across Schneider Engineering’s four locations, serves as a testament to the company’s dedication to teamwork. The installation required meticulous planning by carpenter Dominik Koch and the lighting specialists at Lightnet.
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Möller prioritized premium materials in every aspect of the office. Flooring was a key element, and she opted for oiled industrial parquet, an investment that, despite its higher cost, aligned perfectly with the sustainability ethos of the project.
The interior also incorporates wooden ceilings by Lignotrend, acoustic wall panels from Knauf, and custom wooden cladding with sound absorbers from Woopies. Flooring consists of recycled-material carpets and high-quality porcelain stoneware tiles.
Furnishings, far from being off-the-shelf, include customized carpentry, metalworking, and upholstery. Office furniture brands such as Sedus, Walter Knoll, COR, and Kinnarps were selected for their ergonomic design and aesthetic appeal. Lighting solutions from Lightnet and Muuto complete the carefully curated interior.
A Personal Approach to Design
Möller prides herself on designing spaces that reflect the client's needs rather than imposing her own style. "I don’t want to immortalize myself in the orders. In this case, I think I have achieved a more masculine character. This shows that I identify with the client," she explains.
For Möller, empathy is key to effective interior design. Her meticulous planning and attention to detail resulted in an office space that employees eagerly embraced upon moving in August 2024. Social media posts from Schneider Engineering's team continue to highlight their enthusiasm for the new workspace.
Looking Ahead: New Challenges Await
While her expertise spans office and restaurant design, Möller has recently expanded into bathroom design, particularly with a focus on accessibility. "But to be honest, I'm always interested in anything new. Planning a doctor's office would be a challenge that I would gladly take on," she shares.
Already, a new project for Schneider Engineering awaits her attention, underscoring the lasting success of their collaboration. "Whatever comes next will challenge me. And that's what makes my job so much fun."
Project Details
- Project: Office design for ground floor and first floor
- Construction Task: Interior design of a new building
- Location: Dalbergstraße 1, 36037 Fulda
- Client: Christian Schneider, Owner of Schneider Engineering
- Interior Design: Möller ImHaus
- Completion: August 2024
- GFA: 550 m²
- Specialist Planners: Ouadro Office (Eschborn), Lightnet GmbH (Cologne)
- Carpentry: Dominik Koch (Neuhof)
- Materials: Wooden ceilings (Lignotrend), acoustic panels (Knauf), painted concrete walls, wooden cladding with sound absorbers (Woopies), industrial parquet, recycled carpets, porcelain stoneware tiles
- Furniture and Fittings: Custom carpentry, metalwork, and upholstery
- Equipment Selection: Office tables and chairs (Sedus), seating and tables (Walter Knoll, COR, Materia/Kinnarps, Softline), bar stools (Hay), lighting (Lightnet, Muuto), upholstery fabrics (Camira)
About Simone Möller
Originally from Fulda, Simone Möller first trained as a carpenter before earning a degree in interior design from the University of Applied Sciences in Hanover. After gaining experience in architectural firms, she founded her own firm, Möller ImHaus, in 2006. Her expertise spans office, commercial, kitchen, and bathroom design, with a particular focus on sustainability and user-centric spaces.
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