Oslo-based design studio Omhu Projects has completed a colorful and dynamic office and recording studio for Podimo, a leading Scandinavian podcast platform, in Norway's capital. The innovative interior design project demonstrates how thoughtful use of color and materials can create distinct atmospheres for different user groups within a single workspace.
The design team, led by the creative duo JenkinsUhnger, developed two distinct material and color palettes specifically tailored to serve the diverse needs of the space's users. Vibrant, energizing colors dominate areas used by content creators and podcast hosts, while softer, more muted tones promote focus and collaboration in the daily work areas used by Podimo's production staff.
"What is good for one user group isn't necessarily good for the other; we wanted to respect that with our design for the space," explained Thomas Jenkins, co-founder and creative director of Omhu Projects. He emphasized the psychological impact of color choices, noting that "colour affects our experience of our environment, and the quantity of colour and the amount of time we are surrounded by it can determine whether it is invigorating or draining."
The design concept centered on translating Podimo's digital brand identity into a physical environment that captures the energy and storytelling essence of the platform's podcast content. Spatial designer Poppy Lawman highlighted the company's authentic character, describing Podimo Norway as "a really down-to-earth, authentic and genuine company led by the fearless and talented Fride von Porat, who has an amazing energy and playfulness."
The bold color approach was specifically implemented to inspire Podimo's diverse roster of podcast hosts, including comedians Berrum & Beyer, relationship expert Iselin Guttormsen, and healthcare advisors Katarina Flatland and Harald Dobloug. These creators typically spend about two hours per week in the studio recording their shows, making it essential to create spaces that energize and inspire creativity.
The lobby serves as a showcase for the studio's vibrant design philosophy, featuring sculptural furniture pieces and striking decorative elements. A spiraling magazine holder by Swedish designer Gustav Westman creates a dynamic focal point, while a custom-made coffee table covered in two-tone tiles from Dutch brand Palet adds geometric interest. The space also incorporates iconic Norwegian furniture designs, including a yellow version of Terje Ekstrøm's tubular Ekstrem chair and Peter Opsvik's Variable rocking stool in blue.
Bold shades of yellow, blue, red, and orange dominate the podcast recording studios and creative spaces, applied to wall surfaces, textiles, and custom furniture pieces. The recording rooms feature matching blue tones that extend to a curtain-lined wardrobe area, creating a cohesive visual experience for the content creators.
In contrast, the employee work areas where Podimo staff handle podcast production feature a more restrained color palette. Strategic pops of red and orange are carefully interspersed with wooden furniture, exposed brick walls, and muted textiles to create a balanced environment that supports sustained focus and productivity.
The workspace design includes vintage Luxo lamps positioned at wooden desks, while plants are strategically placed throughout the office to promote biophilia and connect occupants with nature. The breakout spaces feature plywood furniture and exposed brickwork, designed to provide moments of calm and relaxation after long hours spent working with digital devices.
The design process involved extensive collaboration with the Podimo team to understand the daily routines and needs of both podcast creators and production staff. "We worked closely with the Podimo team to understand a day in the life of the podcasters and the Podimo team, creating flow diagrams to understand the user journey for both groups using the space," Jenkins explained.
The completed interior design is complemented by a carefully curated selection of Nordic art and photography, reinforcing the regional cultural identity while maintaining the space's contemporary aesthetic. The project represents a successful fusion of functional workspace design with creative inspiration, demonstrating how thoughtful color psychology can enhance different types of work activities within a single environment.