Green Climate Fund creates sustainable future-ready workplace
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was seeking a partner to reconfigure and remodel 12 floors, totaling 102,193 m² (approximately 1.1 million square feet), of office space located in the G-Tower in Songdo, Incheon. The GCF's goal was to provide a flexible and optimised space for approximately 350 employees while creating a sustainable and healthy work environment. In response to these demands, JLL provided comprehensive services ranging from design consulting and interior construction to relocation management.
A modular design for an adaptive future
JLL's approach was centred on sustainability, perfectly aligned with the GCF's mission and values. By proposing a modular design, they enabled rapid and cost-effective interior construction and allowed for easy adaptation to staffing changes or restructuring.
131 tons diverted, a commitment to circularity
The core of the project was sustainability and waste reduction. JLL reused over 90% of existing furniture, including office chairs, desks, and drawers, prioritised the use of eco-friendly building materials with high recycling content, and minimised environmental impact by sourcing materials from local manufacturers. These efforts resulted in the diversion of 131 tons of waste from landfills.
Air, light and living systems
Indoor environmental quality was also an important aspect. JLL used low-VOC materials, placed plants to improve indoor air quality, and applied photocatalytic sprays to reduce the chemical odour of new interior materials. In addition, a distance of 4 metres was maintained between workstations to address modern health issues and reduce the risk of virus transmission.
Design language rooted in nature
The design concept focused on realising GCF's sustainability and global influence. The 12th and 17th floors, which serve as the face of the company, were designed to leave a strong impression, and the impressive reception space, featuring the prominent GCF logo, immediately conveys the organisation's identity to visitors. An open-plan work lounge concept has been applied to the centre of the office. Natural colour accents are added to a neutral background to achieve overall colour harmony, fostering a collaborative and harmonious work environment. A modern reinterpretation of the 'Tree of Life' serves as the central architectural element, symbolising unity and vitality. This element represents the GCF's connection with the world as it plays a central role in climate fund initiatives. The colours, materials, and interior elements surrounding this center reinforce the space's nature-friendly and stable aesthetic.
Navigating complexity, delivering excellence
Throughout the project, JLL navigated various challenges, including frequent layout changes and evolving client requirements conveyed through multiple communication channels. By maintaining close communication with the client and collaborating with the GCF project manager, we secured temporary space for phased construction, ensuring a smooth, uninterrupted relocation.Through this partnership, GCF has established a smart and sustainable work environment that aligns with the organisation's strategic goals. The project not only delivered the flexible, eco-friendly workspace GCF envisioned, but also demonstrated JLL's capability to successfully lead large-scale, sustainability-focused transformations. It stands as an exemplary case of our commitment to creating future-oriented workspaces that combine functionality with environmental responsibility.
Workplace
awards
IDA Awards Gold in Cultural, Community Interior Design & Eco-Friendly Focus 2024
JLL Korea’s workplace for the Green Climate Fund (GCF) in Songdo, Incheon has been awarded Gold in the Cultural , Community Interior Design category & Eco-Friendly Focus, recognising its innovative fusion of symbolic form, sustainable practice, and social purpose.At the heart of the design is a central “Tree of Life” installation, an interior architectural element that reinterprets a timeless symbol of unity and vitality. Modernised in form and function, it serves as both a visual anchor and a metaphor for GCF’s global mission: rooted in climate action, expanding outward to connect communities worldwide.
Design services
Transform your space with design strategy and delivery. Explore our full design services to create workplaces that drive business performance and enhance employee experience.Back to design