Office Space in Town

Area’s task was to create a professional, high-quality setting that would boost productivity and wellness. The facilities include cellular offices, meeting rooms, client lounges, breakout spaces and communal kitchen areas, as well as wellness features such as a gym studio, cycle storage and shower facilities. The client envisaged a unique design style based on the concept of ‘happiness’.

The Area team established a close working relationship with the client from the start, advising on the building selection and due diligence. Area worked with Sam Kopsch Studio to ensure the design and fit-out matched the client’s vision. The scope was full Cat A and B, essentially beginning with a concrete frame, and included a lift extension to the roof where a new cafe and terrace area has been built.

The building is sophisticated and advanced. It is the first in the UK to feature View Dynamic Glass – intelligent, electrochromic windows that automatically tint to maximise natural light and reduce heat and glare. The building has achieved a Wired score rating of gold and offers a high standard of soundproofing and individually controlled air conditioning.

The creative concept is imaginative and stunning, and is based on the project team’s happy memories. The ten themed meeting rooms incorporate features such as hot air balloons, model train sets, even an aquatic haven complete with its own mermaid. There are a total of 475 workstations split over five of the seven floors, with each floor having its own colour palette. Sit-stand desks are provided as standard.

The client was delighted with what it describes as ‘the ultimate home of happiness’. Simon Eastlake, Developments Director at Office Space in Town, commented: ‘From the innovative technology through to the bespoke meeting rooms and breakout spaces, everything has been meticulously designed to offer clients the best possible service and the optimal working environment that will allow them to thrive, as well as support the wellbeing of employees.’

Nathan Wroughton, Project Director at Area commented, “From a construction perspective, the scope of this project was huge. In order to deliver a project of this magnitude within the given time-frame meant we had to work to extremely tight deadlines, while also ensuring the project was delivered to an exceptionally high standard within the set budget. It was a real team effort and we’re thrilled to have shared such a great relationship with both Office Space in Town and Sam Kopsch Studio, which ensured we achieved what we set out to do.”