As the Office Fit Out comprised the intervention of elements of modern office design in to an historic warehouse building it was important that the detailing was respectful of the original character of the building. We adopted the principle of reversibility in all aspects of the design in accordance with recognised conservation principles so that the fit out elements could be easily removed.
The workplace strategy that we have developed with HAP and LC&CC is based on an open plan environment supplemented by an appropriate ratio of meeting / quiet rooms per person with a high standard of acoustic performance of 40 db to the room enclosure to ensure that staff in open plan areas are not affected by noise from conversation or conference calls in meeting rooms. The works to the fabric of the Protected Structure consists of the installation of a floating acoustic floor on anti-vibration pads to eliminate impactsound transfer to the floor below and to provide a level floor finish due to the uneven nature of the existing exposed timber floor. To mitigate risks of variations in the Main Contractdue to unforeseen issues which can arise in an historic building we organised a Phase 1 Enabling Works Contract to include demolitions and stripping out of all existing cellular offices. We also commissioned an inspection by a timber specialist to inspect for insect attack or evidence of decay following opening up of selected areas.
The office accommodation consists of an open plan layout comprising 75 desks, CEO Office, meeting rooms, quiet rooms , enclosed print facilities, staff tea-station/ canteen and kitchenette, waiting/ break out area, comms facility, file storage areas and locker room with new disabled toilet facilities and staff welfare area and entrance lobby.
Our Design approach was strongly advocated by the nature of the building where the existing fabric needed to be complimented with strategically placed services. As a base principle we provided a monotone finish and textured backdrop with splashes of colour being introduced by vibrant colour fabric acoustic panels.
Our service included full interior design services including preparation of 3D images, mood boards and finishes boards to indicate the interior concept to the client. Our Design approach was strongly advocated by the nature of the building where the existing fabric needed to be complimented with strategically placed services. As a base principle we provided a monotone finish and textured backdrop with splashes of colour being introduced by vibrant colour fabric.