ADF01 D&AW Supp Cover Layout 1 04/01/2018 10:48 Page 1 WORKPLACE …€¦ · Designing the ideal workplace acoustics is a complex challenge, but getting the right balance of aesthetics

WORKPLACE ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN 01.18

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ADF01_D&AW Supp Cover_Layout 1 04/01/2018 10:48 Page 1

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Workplace architecture & designsupplement

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Upgrading to a new versionJess Unwin visits Microsoft’s new base in Paddington to see howtransparent and flexible workspaces encourage collaboration, reflecting a‘sea change’ in the IT giant’s approach

A pioneer reaches new heightsWith its original height having been restricted during the First World War,the UK’s first concrete framed building has finally reached its originalpotential thanks to a glazed addition that provides a thoroughly modernworkplace. Mark Smulian reports

A different way of co-workingToday’s co-working spaces need to be vibrant and engaging if they are toattract dynamic young businesses, and in that context the newly openedHuckletree West doesn’t disappoint, reports Ray Philpott

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The value of wellbeingOliver Ronald of Boss Design looks at why employee wellbeing is heavily influencing workplace design and office furniture specification

Smooth operatorsMartin Cummins of Bostik looks at why smoothing compounds areadvisable for workplace floors, and the key specification considerations toachieve the right result

Efficiency expectationsMaria Holton of Luceco explains how the importance of lighting comfortin the workplace has grown in importance, alongside the continued focuson efficiency

First impressions Franz Lorenschitz of Allgood explores the power of ironmongery to offerthe right first impression to users across a range of settings

Successful soundproofingDesigning the ideal workplace acoustics is a complex challenge, but gettingthe right balance of aesthetics and effective soundproofing is crucial forbusiness success, as Hush Acoustics’ Robert Crampton explains 22

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PROJECTS

FEATURES

CONTENTS

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Industry news

COMMENT: Retail parks need to shape up

COMMENT: Workspace at your service

ADF01_D&AW Supp 03-10_ADF Flatplan 05/01/2018 10:03 Page 3

4 NEWS

WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK ADF JANUARY 2018

FROMTHE EDITORThe design of workplaces has been going through something of a renaissance over the past fewyears. Alongside the work instinctively done by architects and interior designers to createhealthier, more productive settings for us to look at screens but also gather and meet effectivelyat work, there have also been an array of studies on the benefits of better design.

Backed by such evidence, emergence of the WELL Standard has been a key force in this move tomake offices places which actually support rather than undermine wellness. Now working inclose partnership with BREEAM, WELL is helping design teams and their clients to promoteand drive the creation of better workplaces across the world.

Of course offering good air quality, ample natural light, and the right acoustics, as well as spaceto congregate, socialise and have meetings are not the only goals for modern workplaces. Inorder for clients to attract the right staff in increasingly competitive marketplaces, they want tomake these places attractive and even ‘cool,’ reinforcing employees’ perceptions of the companyand making them somewhere they want to spend a significant portion of their time.

Paradoxically, although we spend more and more of our time working flexibly, includingincreased home working, and we are not always rooted to the same desk and chair, there ismore and more design focus placed on looking holistically at the office as the locus of thatactivity. Employers are using workplace design to express their values more fundamentally, andour project case studies in this special supplement contain some good examples.

Staff are also putting in more work than ever before, as companies tighten their belts but alsowork smarter across a wider range of platforms including exponentially increasing onlineofferings, so the power of environments to minimise stress for staff needs to be at the top of theagenda. With published studies showing how much flaws in design can affect staff wellbeing,and conversely how good design benefits productivity, there is a compelling need for clients toinvest in good design.

James ParkerEditor

ON THE COVER... 184 Shepherd’s Bush Road is a workplace projectwith a difference – adding a new glazed storey to theUK’s first concrete framed building. For the full reporton this project, go to page 16.© Eugene Codjoe

WORKPLACE ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN 01.18

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5NEWS

WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UKADF JANUARY 2018

An independent study of 1000 UK office-based office workers and 50 facilitiesmanagement experts, has identified a “clearand consistent” link between personal spaceand wellness at work.The study commissioned by Bisley found

that colleagues encroaching on personalspace is the second biggest distraction in theworkplace (after the office being toowarm), with 34 per cent of respondentssaying they were struggling with the issue.Furthermore, storage issues featured fivetimes in the top 15 disruptors, with messydesks, smelly sports kit and food andstationery hunting all featuring.Many of these issues can be overcome by

the appropriate/intelligent use of storage;something which is often forgotten or notconsidered in the drive towards flexiblespaces and accommodating the diversity ofworking styles.The storage supplier believes there are

four key areas that need to be consideredby facilities managers, architects anddesigners when looking at personal spaceand storage in the workplace.The first of these is ‘Creating a sense of

control’; with communal workspaces andnomadic working becoming the norm,having somewhere for people to keeppersonal things is increasingly importantbecause it gives them a space to control andown, and therefore peace of mind. It’s not easy to create a flexible working

environment that works for everyone, butmaking people feel quickly at homethrough clearly identified and individualstowage spaces helps keep employeesconnected and feeling part of the team.Surprisingly, however, only just over half ofthe respondents felt they have adequatecontrol over their conditions.Second is ‘Creating a sense of belong-

ing’; employees still desire their own desk,but agile working practices mean this is farfrom guaranteed. It is becoming increas-ingly important, therefore, for companiesto create a ‘sense of belonging’ in theworkplace, to help employees feel at home

as well as being part of something. Forexample, postal slots and moveable inter-nal fittings are common customisableadditions to lockers and employees can begiven the freedom to personalise theirlocker with an identifying photo andaccessories. Using a mixture of colours andmaterials on locker doors is a simple andcost-effective way to reflect team zones,company culture or brand.Regarding ‘Creating a sense of personal

security,’ employees are taking more andmore expensive items to work with them,such as gym kit, cycling gear and tech, so it’sunsurprising that people want to keep theirbelongings close-by throughout the day.With such items in addition to the

contents of bags and handbags representingconsiderable value, a safe place to stowpersonal belongings is essential. Localbanks of secure lockers can help organisa-tions achieve safe, easily accessible storage.The last factor is ‘Reducing disruptive

factors’; as well as providing lockers forpersonal use and units for team storage,office and facilities managers can use

storage as way to delineate open planspaces, and by adding acoustic dampeningfeatures to doors, noise travel can bereduced which can help create quieter breakout zones. For added flexibility, countertops and power units can be installed ontop of standing-height units for additional‘touchdown’ or meeting areas.Richard Blackwell, CEO at Bisley

commented: “In light of these survey results,we believe that personal storage needs to bemoved further up the workplace designagenda. Storage is a critical element of everyworkplace and without adequate provision,businesses simply can’t function effectivelyand efficiently.” He concluded: “Whenconsidering wellbeing in the workplace, whynot start with storage? Reconfigure it, makeit multi-functional, use it to inject somecolour into the office or reassign it. Neverunderestimate the peace of mind and senseof control employees can get from havingsomewhere to keep their personal items.”

To read the full report please visit:www.bisley.com/wellbeing/

Storage first for a healthy workplaceRESEARCH

Recent wellbeing research commissioned by storage specialist Bisleyshows that people are “desperate for their own space in the workplace”


trinetic.com


www.trinetic.com/

7NEWS


International design and innovation officeCarlo Ratti Associati has completed thetransformation of the AgnelliFoundation’s landmark 20th centurybuilding in Turin into an ‘Office 3.0’ – anapp-controlled environment that offers aglimpse of the workplace of the future.

By leveraging Internet of Things (IoT)technologies, the renovated headquartersof the foundation (named after Fiatfounder Giovanni Agnelli) has become abuilding that is able to adapt in real timeto its users’ needs. The century-oldedifice is equipped with hundreds ofsensors that monitor different sets ofdata, including the location of the build-ing’s occupants, temperature, CO2concentration, and the availability ofmeeting rooms. By interacting with thebuilding management system (BMS) via asmartphone app, each person cancustomise his or her workspace experi-ence in a streamlined fashion.

Among its multiple features, the app

might put an end to the so-called ‘thermo-stat wars’ in the workplace. Once anoccupant sets his or her preferred temper-ature and illumination settings, the BMSresponds accordingly, adjusting the

levels of lighting, heating, and air-conditioning. The system can followoccupants as they move around the building, creating a personalised“environmental bubble.”

Gensler has designed a “highly flexible andauthentic” environment spanning 869 m2

for Hyundai Capital’s UK headquarters inReigate, Surrey. The office has not onlybeen created to match Hyundai Capital’s(HC) progressive office design around theglobe, but one that will meet the evolvingneeds of HC as it transitions from financialservices to the latest ‘fintech’ model.

The architects were asked to create anenvironment that would attract talent whiledelivering an office that meets the needs ofexisting clients and employees.

For HC to achieve a successful transitionto a digital and innovation-led company,Gensler “understood the importance ofaccommodating the diverse working stylesof its current and future employee basewith a lean and agile environment.” Inresponse to this brief, the architecture firmhas designed a “highly practical, flexibleand collaborative office that strongly

encourages employees to personalise theirworking environment and to create aworkplace that truly feels their own.”

The office plan is split into six key areas,several of which are directly inspired byfeatures of the traditional ‘home’: the livingroom, the kitchen, the game room, themeeting rooms, the open workspace and theoffice lockers. With social integration a keypriority, the new office eliminates the tradi-tional reception area in favour of an openplan social hub said to “enable visitors tomix with employees as soon as they arrive,and gain immediate insight into the philos-ophy of HC.”

The design features a “functional, yetsophisticated industrial aesthetic.” Inaddition to the kitchen, lounge and gamesrooms, other features such as optimisedviews, plenty of natural light and biophilicfinishes, give the space a “calming andrestorative atmosphere” to which employ-

ees are encouraged to bring in plants, vinylrecords and books, enabling them to “co-opt and hack the space to truly make ittheir own.”

The individual table system allows staffto adjust the height of their desk for stand-ing, sitting and lounge options. Foldingwalls, pull down power cords and writablewalls within different spaces allow foremployees to further adapt their space.

Philippe Paré, design director and princi-pal at Gensler, commented: “DesigningHyundai Capital’s new headquarterschallenged our team to think criticallyabout employee habits, instincts, and mostimportantly, the environment whichharnesses those behaviours to the best ofeach employee’s ability.” Paré went on tosay that “this new environment is aboutempowerment, expression, authenticity andthe flexibility for employees to adapt theirworking styles to the task at hand.”

Gensler “redefines corporate workplace”PERSONALISATION

SMART OFFICES

‘Office 3.0’ premieres at Foundation’s renovated Turin HQ


COMMENT

Before retailers and developers are able to future-proof retailparks, they must first understand why the common layout,which has remained unchanged for many years, now needs

to evolve. The current format is, in part, the reason that many ofthese developments are missing the mark for consumers, and inturn for owners and staff.

Typically, the layout of most UK-based retail parks is simple: anumber of large ‘bulky goods’ units, occupied by big-name retail-ers, fronting a large car park. While this may be architecturallyuninspiring, this formula has met the needs of consumers for manyyears. However, changes in shopping trends and consumer habits –including the rise of internet shopping and click and collect services– alongside busier lifestyles, have resulted in many of the large unitsbecoming less desirable, leading to an increase in vacant spacewithin retail parks.

These issues are all part and parcel of a general apathy in retailtowards the change needed to meet the demands of the modernconsumer. By failing to meet their needs, the ‘ripple effect’ is passedon to unit owners and staff. Vacant units mean job losses andbusiness closures, and limited footfall and dwell time fromcustomers impacts business turnover and job satisfaction.

LK2’s StreetLab and SportsLab initiatives are exploring opportu-nities to incorporate additional mixed uses into retail parks andbuild over existing units to exploit “air rights.” Retail parks withvacant land adjacent are particularly attractive in terms of creatingopportunities to introduce community and commercial sports andleisure uses to create a true community destination.

Some retail parks are already working to address this, withlarger retail parks introducing leisure and entertainment facilitiessuch as multiplex cinemas, food and beverage units, and discountretail stores to fill vacant space and reflect the changes we haveseen on the high street in cities and towns. More and more conven-ience stores and upmarket food operators are choosing to openstores within retail parks, which is a relatively new trend and apositive change.

In fact, this current trend has seen retail parks slowly increasefootfall and decrease the number of vacant units, highlighting howthe traditional model for retail parks can be easily modernised andevolved. With land for development becoming increasingly hard tofind, retail parks offer a number of exciting opportunities,especially for more mixed-use schemes incorporating residential,student accommodation and office space. Retail parks can also bethe ideal location for finance and business units, community andmedical care facilities.

The offering of an over-arching ‘destination’ enhances retailappeal and in turn reaps dividends for staff and business owners.For example, the introduction of leisure, sport and entertainmentfacilities would improve the working environment for staff, boost-ing job satisfaction. Providing staff with a choice of after workactivities would allow them to take part in sporting activities andimprove fitness or socialise outside of work. The creation of newbusinesses through added facilities would also create new jobs andallow staff to choose to work closer to home rather than travellinginto the nearest town or city centre.

‘Super surgeries’ are also a rising trend, with more and moredoctors, dentists, opticians and physios opting to share space andwork collaboratively. Locating surgeries close to a sport, leisureand recreation site can only be beneficial, with retail parks theobvious next step and one which we are starting to see already.Having these facilities easily accessible to staff would also helpreduce sick leave or time off to attend medical appointments, andwould relieve the pressure on staff to book medical appointmentsaround work hours.

The creation of these sustainable ‘communities’ around retailparks would also benefit unit owners, as having a wider choice ofactivities for customers would lead to increased footfall, dwell timeand ultimately spend. Extending the operating hours of a retailpark would also reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

CHANGING HABITSChanges in shoppers’ lifestyles have resulted in many of the larger unitsbecoming less desirable, leading to an increase in vacant space

Fighting a losing battle with the internet to attract shoppers, the design of retail parksmust evolve to offer consumers a compelling case to visit. Gary Johnson and PaulStarbuck from retail, sport and leisure specialist architects LK2 describe why mixed usedevelopments including sports, leisure and healthcare are the way forward

Retail parks need to shape up

8 COMMENT



When looking at existing retail parks, our team of retail andleisure experts begin by conducting research, investigating howthey could be transformed and regenerated to better suit the needsof retailers and consumers, providing a cohesive offering to theircatchment area. As part of this research, we investigate currentretail and leisure offerings, the opportunities which could be incor-porated into them and the space that’s currently available.

We also consider how initiatives from organisations such asSport England can support the developments in bringing retail,leisure and sport together. Sport England is currently leading the

way when it comes to introducing ‘break-out’ sports areas into carparks and general public realm spaces. Developers working withSport England to support its ‘Towards an Active Nation’ strategy,will see the benefits of a holistic approach that may even align tofinancial support. We work closely with our clients and developersto encourage and to engage in conversations with organisations,like Sport England, which are looking to revolutionise sport andleisure in the UK.

Often, out-of-town retail developments come up against a tiradeof objections during planning, as they are seen as having a negativeimpact upon nearby town centres. However, by incorporating astrong sport and leisure offering, developers are able to overcomethese challenges and in doing so, support organisations like SportEngland in tackling dropping participation rates and addressing thein-activity of the nation in general. This is a key target in reducingthe reliance and cost on the NHS; it’s a long-term objective, butcertainly one that can be supported through this innovative way ofcreating sustainable destinations.

As the face of retail changes, developers and retailers shouldconsider the impacts on not only consumers, but staff and businessowners. Developers need to consider how sport and leisure cansupport retail within parks, helping to create more of a communitydestination, boosting staff morale and making them an attractivemove for business owners.

With this in mind, there is huge potential for the wholesalerepositioning of retail parks via the creation of a new model –which we called StreetLab and SportsLab, which will increasevalues, footfall and dwell time, thereby extending the life andviability for retail park owners and developers.

HEALTHY LOCATIONLocating GP surgeries on retail parks is an obvious next step, and one that isalready beginning to be seen

9COMMENT


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COMMENT

Agrowing demand for modern, flexible office spacewith ‘future-facing’ tech capability is prompting smalland established businesses alike to turn to serviced

offices, which can also support their business models andenhance workers’ office environment.

Freedom to expandServiced offices can provide HQ facilities and on-site serviceswithout the long-term financial commitment attached to standard offices leases. By avoiding tying companies down torestrictive contracts and fixed letting agreements, serviced officescan support start-ups as well as established companies by allow-ing them to focus their resources on expanding, and improvingcompetitiveness.

Serviced offices are designed to reflect an increasing demandfor flexibility from tenants, with adaptable office spaces able toshrink and expand to meet businesses’ needs. They can bedesigned to respond to different business sizes, preferred locationand operational requirements, and in doing so, allow companiesto focus on growing their business.

Serviced offices provide the potential to allow businesses to

gain a global footprint quickly and affordably. Organisationslooking to expand abroad can take advantage of the flexibilityprovided by serviced offices. They help to cater for such expan-sion by allowing firms to take up as little office space asnecessary, while using it effectively.

Boosting productivityThe challenge for providers however is to offer unique designsand high-spec facilities as well as flexible space. Embedding newtechnology is one way to win tenants over, and equippingserviced offices with the latest technological innovations is key toimproving the productivity of businesses. Offering turnkeyvirtual office solutions and tailored office support, such aspersonalised call answering, message management, mail forward-ing and administration, are important features which can enablebusinesses to run highly productive offices at a lower cost, whilemaintaining a strong local and international presence.

Diversity of design is particularly important, as adding quirkyinteriors can boost employees’ creativity. Recent examples ofserviced offices we have delivered range from 1920s ‘GreatGatsby’ themed decorations to Lewis Carrol-inspired ‘Alice inWonderland’ spaces. In addition, clients have been provided withaccess to rooftop terrace cafes, cycle storage, beauty treatmentrooms, and even serviced bedrooms.

Getting tenant satisfactionWe are all spending more time in our offices than virtuallyanywhere else, which is leading to a greater convergence between our work life and our private life. This has led to a demand forworkspaces to offer more facilities and services to reflect employ-ees’ varied needs. People working longer hours, for example, mayrequire that their offices provide more amenities, breakoutspaces, and proximity to restaurants and bars. Occupiers are alsodemanding better customer service and expect better amenities,technology and on-site customer service.

This is why serviced office providers are increasingly investing in training and equipping staff with the right skill set to allowthem to respond quickly and effectively to the varying needs oftheir office tenant clients. Ensuring that staff has bespoke techknowledge can allow them to respond quickly to any tenantqueries and concerns promptly.

Ultimately, in providing a wider range of amenities andcustomer service, serviced offices can contribute to an enjoyableand inspiring work culture that improves tenant satisfaction, andin turn, the performance of their businesses.

Simon Eastlake is developments manager at Office Space in Town

Offering flexibility for tenants, serviced offices are instrumental in supporting thesuccess and growth of businesses, argues Simon Eastlake of Office Space in Town

Workspace at your service

DESIGN DIVERSITYDiversity of design is paramount to creating a serviced office that fulfils aclient’s goals, as quirky interiors can boost employees’ creativity

10 COMMENT



https://www.officespaceintown.com/

https://www.officespaceintown.com/

Anyone who has worked in an openplan office has given in to thetemptation to email a colleague who

is just a few paces away across the floor.Undoubtedly convenient but also

somehow disconnected on a human level,this ‘digital dialogue’ – as studio head atMicrosoft’s Lift London studio LeeSchuneman described it – was something hewas looking to discourage in phase two ofthe firm’s relocation to a new home.Part of his vision for floors seven and

eight at 2 Kingdom Street, Paddington wasstaff benefiting from a more ‘analogue’relationship. Surprising language givenMicrosoft is a tech giant – but gettingpeople up from their desks to talk face toface is part of the company’s strategy tocreate shared, transparent and flexibleworkspaces that encourage collaboration.Architects Gensler were asked to deliver

those workspaces when they took on theproject in November 2015. The two-floorrefit started just as phase one of the reloca-tion (on floors four and five) was beingcompleted. The overarching plan for phasetwo was to bring further Microsoft businessgroups – including the Lift London andSwiftKey engineering teams, but also Bing,Xbox and HoloLens – under one roof,reflecting the company’s aim to establish anintegrated London base.Gensler were already working on

Microsoft’s European HQ in Dublin whenthey got the call to take on Paddington.Stuart Templeton, lead interior designer andassociate at Gensler, soon understood thetwo biggest challenges ahead.

Winning over end usersFirstly, a modest budget for the combinedaccommodation of 4,830 m2 would meanimaginative and creative design solutions.

Secondly, the designs would need to winover some of the people who were to usethe office spaces. In particular, the LiftLondon and SwiftKey teams, who weremoving from very different environments atoffices in Soho and Southwark respectively.Templeton says: “Both these groups are

staffed by younger people with a strongstart-up mentality and there was somenervousness about relocating to a morecorporate setting.”Happily, the project coincided with a sea

change in thought at Microsoft that hashelped Gensler recreate the start-up energy,creativity and general ambience that theLift London and SwiftKey teams wanted. Templeton explains: “It’s an interesting

time to work with Microsoft. Previouslythey’ve had an office design manual forarchitects which was pretty prescriptive:you know, put a table here that’s thisheight, a screen here of this height. But, ofcourse, that was producing a commonalitythat they’ve decided to get away from. “Now, there’s a new design language for

their offices that gives architects anddesigners much more flexibility in howspace can be laid out to be more suited tothe end user.”

Spaces to suit all needsAlthough the two floors were treated astwo separate projects, both had the sameobjective: a working environment forMicrosoft engineers and designers consist-ing of myriad spaces where they candiscover different locations to suit theirneeds, whether that be formal, informal,quiet, or lively. And, in recognition of the ever-changing

nature of tech work, the spaces had to besufficiently fluid and flexible so that theycould be tweaked and rearranged as the

Jess Unwin visits Microsoft’s new base in Paddington to see how transparent and flexibleworkspaces encourage collaboration, reflecting a ‘sea change’ in the IT giant’s approach

Upgrading to a new version

MICROSOFT HUBWEST LONDON

BUILDINGPROJECTS

The new design languagefor their offices givesarchitects and designersmuch more flexibilityStuart Templeton, lead interior designer & associate, Gensler


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LOUNGE MUSICLounge areas feature comfortable furniture and rugs,and even musical equipment for staff to use


teams’ needs changed.The work was completed earlier this

year. Beginning with floor seven, visitorsfind at its centre the Refresh Hub – adynamic, open space that’s slightly hard todefine. One part feels a little like a univer-sity campus canteen and/or common roomas a result of its kitchen and functionaltables and chairs. Yet nearby are loungeareas with stylish armchairs, coffee tablesand carpets. There’s even room for a drumkit and guitar amps for staff with musicaltalents. Much of this area features therelative luxury of timber flooring, whileoverhead there’s a stripped-back aestheticwith ceiling tiles removed to reveal services.The result of this mix is a vibrancy that isrelaxing and inviting – exactly whatMicrosoft wanted.Templeton says: “The space on floor

seven is mostly occupied by Lift London,who were used to having the energy ofSoho on their doorstep at their old home.They were also familiar with Soho House[a private members club popular withcreatives], which they liked because of theintimate, textured ambience, and because ithad a certain exclusivity. Putting thosethemes together with Paddington’s historyaround the railway station, we thought

there was an interior design dialogue wecould tap into – Soho meets Paddington.”Despite the absence of very many physi-

cal barriers, the neighbouring HoloLens‘client’ space is quiet, providing a library-like environment of focus and peace.

Small changes, big impactThe floor also features plenty of more‘traditional’ working areas – but subtlesteps have been taken to encourage staffnot to be too tied to their desks. Templetonsays: “Small things have had quite animpact. Things like removing storagepedestals under desks, everyone usinglaptops rather than desktop PCs to encour-age flexible working and sit/stand desks forstaff that wanted them.”

Although much of theprevious tenant’s layoutwas retained, doing awaywith several meetingrooms allowed for a muchmore open-plan setting

FLEXIBILITYSpaces needed to be fluid and flexible to support theever-changing of nature of tech work

PROJECT FACTFILE:MICROSOFT HUB

Main contractor: OverburyArchitect: GenslerLighting consultant/ M&E contractor: Hoare LeaJoinery: Brown & CarrollFlooring: Timber – Havwoods; Ceramics tiles – DomusFurniture: Knoll desk systems; Conran; SCP; Very Good & Proper;Retrouvius (reclaimed table tops)Lighting: Trainspotters; Skin2intDesignCurtains: VescomWritable Paint: Idea PaintFabric Panels: Kvadrat

13MICROSOFT HUB, WEST LONDON



The reduced number of meeting rooms isanother key aspect of the interior designethos. Templeton says: “There are fewermeeting rooms here than I think I’ve everplanned for an office. Again, the idea is toget people to collaborate in more flexible,transparent spaces.”In the same vein, Templeton says the

engineers’ tech requirements have been setup to be ‘super flexible’. He explainsfurther: “The tech isn’t embedded in parti-tion walls, and there aren’t screens set uparound fixed furniture in a meeting room.Staff wanted to be able to set up whateverthey want, wherever they want it. In fact,anytime I’ve been at the office, spaces arebeing used in a slightly different way.” On floor eight, occupied by SwiftKey, the

aim was again to create shared, flexibleworkspaces for a young, creative team whowanted to retain the informal environmentof a start-up.Although much of the previous tenant’s

layout was retained, doing away withseveral meeting rooms allowed for a muchmore open-plan setting. Sunken loungeareas were also created as collaborationzones. As with floor seven, the existing SAS

plank metal ceiling system was partiallystripped out, exposing services and givingadditional height up to the slab. Pendantlighting was also installed to create moreareas of ambient lighting.But the signature touch here is specialist

joinery, which is used to help divide spaces.Templeton says: “On this floor our ideawas to create an aesthetic that would becanal warehouse – again tapping intoPaddington’s history – meets Londonmarkets. The timber partitions we createdgive the impression of what you might findin an old warehouse, while using the influ-ence of London markets by installingartwork collections to animate spaces.”It wasn’t something Gensler had control

of, but it would be remiss not to mentionthe floor-to-ceiling glazing of this impres-sive office building: it offers eye-catchingexterior views of London’s skyline, andequally dramatic interior views of the full-building-height central atrium.

Sticking to budget with sustainable solutionsGetting maximum design impact within theavailable budget was certainly the project’sbiggest challenge, says Templeton. “I thinkwe did just that, and we enjoyed coming upwith solutions that we might not otherwisehave considered. More money might have

14 MICROSOFT HUB, WEST LONDON



meant an uplift in finishes but the designconcept would still have been the same –and there should be a way to achieve thatwhether you’ve got £100 or £1,000 tospend. We worked closely with the contrac-tor on sourcing materials, which fostered avery positive collaborative process.”A major contribution to both affordabil-

ity and sustainability was therelocation/reuse of existing Microsoftfurniture and kitchen equipment.Templeton says: “Much of the furniturewas about functionality rather than brandnames – in line with the stripped-back,start-up ‘vibe’ the end users were comfort-able with. The company had plenty offurniture across their campuses, some of itunder stairs and in stock rooms. Around 60per cent of furniture at Paddington hasbeen relocated there – a saving thatallowed us to spend on the new timberflooring on floor seven, which was a nod tothe luxury of Soho House.”A design rethink of that timber flooring

prevented the need to buy new electricalbusbars, while, in other areas carpets wereremoved to reveal the existing raised floortiles. Templeton explains: “Microsoftdesign guidelines talk about elevating theordinary and this is an example – wepolished the tiles and added vinyl graphicsto turn the ordinary into something more.”Elsewhere, reclaimed timber crowbars,once used to lift railway tracks in the area,have been repurposed to create tailor-madespace division.

Transparency & collaborationLift London and SwiftKey staff have beenmaking use of their new Paddington homefor some months now. Lift London’s LeeSchuneman says: “We set out to rethink theway we work together as a team, with a newenvironment designed around the principlesof transparency and collaboration.”

Talking about how the new spaces havegone down with the firm’s staff, he adds:“The space has been enthusiasticallyreceived and people are using it in a waythat suits them best – which was one ofour main goals. The feel of the place hasalways been really important to us, andemployees comment on how positive it is.It’s an environment where they can dotheir best work.”Gensler’s Templeton happily agrees that

Microsoft staff’s initial apprehensionaround the project has melted away. Hesays: “Of course it really helps to be able toengage with end users like Lee – thatalways creates for much better design.”�

All photos © Hufton + Crow

15MICROSOFT HUB, WEST LONDON



With its original height having been restricted during the First World War, the UK’s firstconcrete framed building has finally reached its original potential thanks to a glazedaddition that provides a thoroughly modern workplace. Mark Smulian reports

A pioneer reaches new heights

184 SHEPHERD’S BUSH ROADHAMMERSMITH, LONDON

BUILDINGPROJECTS



Anyone crossing Brook Green, a parkin Hammersmith, west London, willbe in close proximity to a radically

refurbished listed building, but they maymiss both the building and its key designfeature unless they look closely.If they do notice the building, they may

wonder why 184 Shepherd’s Bush Roadlooks rather squat – surely a building withsuch a large footprint should be taller?Look again. Although it is hidden from

Brook Green by large trees, 184 Shepherd’sBush Road has had a vast domed glass rooffitted, transforming what was a three storeybuilding into a six storey one.

184 Shepherd’s Bush Road was built in1915-16 as a garage and showroom for theFord Motor Company in the early days ofcar traffic. It had been designed as a five-storey

building but shortages of raw materialsduring the First World War meant it endedup with only three, providing 117,000 ft2.The building was later used by Citroën as

its UK distribution and sales centre and thenby lighting firm Osram – which has left asmall but significant legacy at the site – andmost recently, as a self-storage facility.Westerland Real Estate, which owned it,

wanted the building to have a more promi-



STEELSRather than the 1915 concept of continuingthe concrete frame, the new domed extension isin lighter steel frame to allow three storeys

nent use and asked architectural practiceCollado Collins to initially make sugges-tions as to what this might be.

Hotel and residential uses were consid-ered but discarded and eventuallyrefurbishment as an office was chosen.

The building had been built using thethen-revolutionary concrete frametechnique, but by the time Collado Collinsbecame involved almost 100 years later thisframe was showing wear and tear.

Other than the structural elements, only afew original features – including mosaicfloors and wood panelling – remained onparts of the former ground floor showroomarea and a small space thought to haveoriginally been a customer reception area.

Collado Collins’ chosen design was foran open plan office space, as having beenbuilt as a car showroom, the building hashigh ceilings and was ideal for conversioninto offices.

While the work needed to refurbish theinterior would be comparatively straightfor-ward, the problem was how to createenough space to make it attractive to apotential occupier?

Being listed as Grade II major alterationswere out of the question, and the LondonBorough of Hammersmith & Fulham

planning authority was concerned aboutmaintaining views and the building’srelationship to its surroundings.

Collado Collins lead architect SanjaTiedemann explains how the solution lay inthe roof: “The roof was flat as in the origi-nal design, but in 1915-16 the building wasdesigned to be five floors high, and eventhough only three were built the structurecould take five floors and two cores poppedout above roof surface which would havebeen for these floors.”

She continues: “We put in a 1.5 metretransfer zone. On top we placed the newdomed glazed roof, which utilises the exist-ing structure.”

The 1915 version would have continuedthe concrete frame upwards but the newdome is a steel frame with glass to reduceweight, which meant three floors could befitted on the original roof beneath theglazed dome.

The problem was how tocreate enough space tomake it attractive to apotential occupier


18 184 SHEPHERD’S BUSH ROAD, HAMMERSMITH, LONDON


“We wanted to achieve height without itbeing seen from the street, with low intru-sion on the neighbourhood,” she says.

One option was simply to build upwardsbut, the architect confirms, “the council saidthat was a non-starter as it did not lookproportionately right”.

Another factor to be considered was thatthe building next door – now used byretailer Tesco and a housing association –was once part of Osram’s operation, and astriking cupola remains from this. Plannerswanted to retain visibility of this from theroad from central Hammersmith andsimply building upwards would haveobscured it.

Tiedemann says: “In conversations withplanning officers they initially assumed wecould only add a single floor, but we optedfor a curved roof that slants back, so thecloser you get, the less you see of it. Becauseof the geometric proportion of the roof weaccommodated three floors in there.”

The roof is a tubular steel structure withsteel nodes and the glazing is a mix oftransparent and opaque panels to controlsolar gain.

“We retained the parapet and built thetransfer zone so the only connectionbetween the roof and new floors is on thefourth floor and at the top”. Facadecontractor Seele prefabricated all parts ofthe roof and transferred them to the site.

The 50,000 ft2 roof extension is a diagridglass roof, which presented severalchallenges such as predicting how comfort-able it would be to situate a workingenvironment under a large area of glass.

Engineering consultancy Hilson Moranundertook extensive modelling of internalconditions and air distribution to establishthe correct volume of shading needed.

The roof’s curve left limited space forplant, which is accommodated in a well atits centre.

Hilson Moran director Martin Murphysays: “Complex redevelopment schemessuch as this require modelling and analysisto ensure the right building services systemsand solutions are in place to create anoptimum workspace, in this case both in thenew extension and in the historic listedbuilding.”

Below the roof, Collado Collins had todevise a way to use the existing building.Aside from it being listed, the new occupant– retail customer information providerDunnhumby – came on board early andwanted to keep the large open spaces tofacilitate its style of working.

Tiedemann says: “Once we got full access

19184 SHEPHERD’S BUSH ROAD, HAMMERSMITH, LONDON



All images © Eugene Codjoe

PROJECT FACTFILE

Client: Westerland Real EstateArchitect: Collado CollinsStructural engineer:Campbell ReithM&E/ sustainability engineer: Hilson Moran Planning consultant: Jon Dingle Consulting employer’s agent:RISE Management ConsultingCost consultant: AlineaMain contractor:McLaren Construction Roo%ng contractor: Seele HeritageWindows: CrittalM&E support systems: Fixmart Raised &ooring: Floorplan SystemsGas infrastructure: Squire Energy Stainless steel street planters: IOTAInterior design: Franklin Design AssociatesScreeding works:Floor Screeding CompanyPlanning authority:London Borough of Hammersmith& Fulham

we started looking at structure and loadand slabs, which are the first of their kindin terms of concrete framework, which isthe reason for its listing. “This technique had not previously been

used in the UK and we found a lot ofhoneycombing had occurred along theedges of columns and had to re-inject themand do some work to the slabs,” she adds.“Some columns were replaced like for

like, but it was in pretty good condition anddid not need any new columns to supportthe roof.”Collado Collins reinstated the floor and

retained the ceilings and timber panelling.The smaller core was removed and whathad been a loading bay at the rear of thebuilding was partially incorporated into thestructure, retaining some of the originalfeatures but now serving as both a conser-vatory that is an extension of the officespace and an outdoor gym. “Dunnhumby got involved very early on

and we managed to incorporate a lot oftheir variations, such as a new atrium spaceat the back, as they wanted to retain thevery industrial character,” she says, addingthat “their philosophy is that staff ‘hot desk’and can work anywhere – I think everybodyhas their favourite corner of the building”.One staircase connects all floors, and

there are four lifts and toilet facilities withinthe core.The building being listed also meant that

little could be changed on the building’sexterior. The brickwork was simply cleanedbut otherwise left undisturbed.

The windows were still the original oneswhich had been supplied by manufacturerCrittal. The frames had been painted whitebut proved to have originally beenBuckingham green.“We contacted Crittal to see what we

could do and they said it would makemore sense with sustainability issues andthe building becoming an office space toreplace them, so we got Crittal windowswhich were an exact match for the origi-nals,” says Tiedemann.“The council was happy to discuss

colours and we went for a more industrialfeel with dark grey,” she adds.There is clearly a limit as to how

much the sustainability features expectedin a new building can be incorporated intoa century-old listed one, althoughTiedemann says there are elements ofwater retention with an attenuation tank,and there are measures to limit energyconsumption – for example lights will turnoff if no-one is present.184 Shepherd’s Bush Road has won the

Hammersmith Society’s environmentaward and has been highly commended bythe Royal Institution of CharteredSurveyors. It has also been shortlisted forawards from the Royal Institute of BritishArchitects and the British Council ofOffices.A century after wartime stringency

deprived the building of its intended top,184 Shepherd’s Bush Road has finallyreached its full height – even if the originaldesigners might not recognise it. �

20 184 SHEPHERD’S BUSH ROAD, HAMMERSMITH, LONDON



C

R


www.bisley.com/

White City, the former heart ofthe BBC’s empire in the capital,is being transformed into a

vibrant new residential and commercialquarter in west London.

At the centre of this rebirth is the newWhite City Place business district, consist-ing of six repurposed buildings located onthe national broadcaster’s former 17 acreMedia Village.

As part of a wider redevelopment offormer BBC properties in West London it

is being marketed by the developersStanhope to attract start-ups and entrepreneurs in the tech, media andcreative sectors to create a dynamic newbusiness hub.

Huckletree, a young and pioneeringcompany providing flexible, idiosyncraticand affordable shared co-working spacesfor exactly those kind of businesses, saw agolden opportunity in White City Place.

It opened Huckletree West, its third co-working space to date, on

Today’s co-working spaces need to be vibrant and engaging if they are to attract dynamic young businesses, and in that context the newly opened Huckletree West doesn’tdisappoint, reports Ray Philpott

A different way of co-working

HUCKLETREE WESTLONDON

BUILDINGPROJECTS

OPPORTUNITYHuckletree is a young company providing flexible andidiosyncratic co-working spaces, and saw a golden opportunity in White City



GROUND FLOORStudio RHE was commissioned to create a distinctive,striking and open layout for co-working

the ground floor of the refurbished six-storey BBC Media Centre originallycompleted in 2004. Now renamedMediaWorks, it’s one of three buildings in White City Place, which have beendesignated for extensive redevelopment.

The internal architecture and interiordesign is the work of Studio RHE, commissioned to create a distinctive, striking, and ‘open’ co-working layout.

The building overlooks attractive,accessible terraced gardens to its rear, andadjoins a series of street level retail outletslocated to the front and one side of thebuilding.

ChallengesStudio RHE was keen to build on thesuccessful work it had carried out on theHuckletree’s earlier centres at Shoreditchand Finsbury Square in London. Howeverat White City, the architects faced analtogether different challenge to success-fully capture the distinctive Huckletree customer experience.

The earlier projects were containedwithin older, established buildings, benefitting from an existing language andfabric that can be interacted with. Bycontrast, Huckletree West sits inside aCategory A core and shell refurbishmentexecuted by the building’s original architects, Allies and Morrison.

So, how do you turn a capacious, double-height, ground floor ‘box’ with

zero identity into a series of highly origi-nal, inspirational, clearly defined yetinterconnected work spaces for a ‘commu-nity’ of more than 500 people?

An additional constraint is thatHuckletree’s space is effectively bisectedby a central atrium, lit by roof glazing sixfloors up and housing the building’s mainentrance, reception and lobby.

DynamismRichard Hywel Evans, director andfounder of Shoreditch-based Studio RHEsays: “Primarily we wanted to capture thedynamism and vibrant atmosphere ofHuckletree’s first two locations, havingspent three years developing the conceptwith them.

“We have a fantastic working relationship with Huckletree based oncontinual feedback and open dialogue. So we’re able to share our thoughts as wego and be flexible, which is useful when we adapt spaces to meet unforeseen orchanging needs.

“Together, we’ve drawn on a mix of intuitive ‘gut feel’ about what workedwell at the earlier sites, combined with solid analytics to see which elements were actually the most used or occupied.”

In White City though, they inherited a blank canvas – a vast space with aglazing curtain wall more than five metreshigh around most of the perimeter sittingat the bottom of a concrete framed build-

23HUCKLETREE WEST, LONDON



ing. The only structural feature theyadded was a mezzanine in the larger ofthe two co-working spaces, increasingfloor space by a third.

IdiosyncraticAs Hywel Evans explains, “The bigquestion we asked ourselves at the startwas how do we give this huge space anidentity, how do we create an idiosyncraticplace that‘s interesting to work in andcharacterful without looking mannered orover- designed.

He continues: “We needed to meet thekey Huckletree criteria of creating avibrant community through visual trans-parency and connectivity across differentareas. The core working areas are in thecentre, with lots of breakout areas toengender interaction and spaces whereHuckletree members can get privacy ifthey want. This meant creating insertionsof different, distinctive areas, each tellinga different story.”

One striking example of such an inser-tion is the meditation garden, an internalcircular structure made from recycledshipping rope containing circular seatingwhere tech devices like phones are

banned, and the recreation room withwalls made from natural, woven willowwalls.

Another intriguing element is whatHywel Evans calls the “Hutte”. It is a large house-shaped building of birch-faced timber resembling a Swedishcottage, containing meeting rooms andthe centre’s Virtual Reality (VR)Laboratory, where members can learn andexplore uses of immersive technologies.

In one corner there is the auditorium, a 150-seat plywood terrace with stagelighting looking down on a space forinternal or external events, presentationsor larger meetings. “It’s open to thegeneral space surrounding it,” says Evans,“but huge green curtains with a moss-liketexture can be pulled across to close it offfor privacy if required and we’ve used thespace in the undercroft of the seating asan alternative meeting place.”

The green theme continues with The Slope, an angular yet comfortable area for relaxation and casual meetings,again finished in a moss-like green fabric,internal planting features and a lovelyview over the gardens.

Other interesting features designed for

PROJECT FACTFILE

Design work begins:December 2016Workspace opened:September 2017Total 0oor space: 30,500 ft2

(40 per cent ‘breakout’ space)Number of occupants: 500+Number of desks: 250 desks (including 100 ‘hot desks’)Extra facilities: 30 private ‘studios’holding four-30 co-workers, 150-seat auditorium

24 HUCKLETREE WEST, LONDON



the maximum benefit of co-workersinclude sealed booths for one-to-onephone or internet-based conversationsalong with larger teleconferencing spaces– both offering privacy for participantsand protecting other co-workers fromnoise.

Towards the centre of the space is thecore working area where hot desks anddesks dedicated to a particular company or individual are located. On the periph-ery are variously-sized, glass-frontedprivate offices or ‘studios’ along withbookable meeting rooms with their ownindividual colour and design.

“The enclosed areas serve to delineate the space along with the walkways that have been finished in a range of different finishes and colours,” says Hywel Evans.

TransparencyProject architect Thidaa Roberts explainsthe benefits of a mezzanine level in such abuilding, saying it “has proven a highlypopular area with users”.

She continues: “We elected not tostretch the mezzanine right across theoffice space as we thought it would

damage the aesthetics and create a loss ofconnection in the working environment.

“It is actually a steel platform structure,such as that which you might see in alogistics warehouse, with structural boltsand rivets on display providing a certainlevel of ‘industrial chic’ while keeping tothe budget. Metal guard and stair railscombine with fine mesh balustrades toprovide transparency of view.”

Transparency also plays a critical role in addressing the challenge of having the two main work spaces situated on either side of the atrium/lobby. As Robertspoints out: “Thanks to the double-heightglass, people in both elements can seedirectly into the other space, retaining thestrong sense of visual connection inherentto the brand.

“In fact,” continues the architect, “wereally celebrate the glazed curtain wallthroughout, exploiting the natural lighton both levels and placing communalplaces near the glass so people can enjoythe gardens and views outside.”

Striking features Elsewhere, the building’s original circularsupport columns, complete with attractive

TELECONFERENCING There are larger teleconferencing spaces designed toprotect co-workers from noise

25HUCKLETREE WEST, LONDON



exposed concrete and finished with blackand white stripes subtly added at the top,are a strong feature.

And to bring interest to what is anotherwise uniform perforated metal-cladceiling, the architects have peeled the tilesaway in certain areas to expose strips ofbare concrete, which have been paintedblack to reflect Huckletree’s signaturediagonal stripe branding.

The diagonal lines are also deployed on various wall spaces along with original mood-generating artwork byanimation production company GoldenWolf, both visual styles projecting theHuckletree identity.

Floor surfaces include vinyl and carpetin a range of colours for high traffic areasalong with polished concrete of the origi-nal floor, and again are used to demarcateareas and create interest.

Different styles of lighting have beenexploited to differentiate areas. Long,tubular metal-capped lights resemblinggiant electrical fuses are suspended verti-cally, horizontally or even across eachother to seemingly tumble through the air,while long rectangular downlights featureheavily elsewhere.

Lighting also adds drama to a strikingacoustic sculpture in the shape of a hugecloud hovering above the main desk area.Made from many fluffy hand-made pom-poms hung from the ceiling at variousheights, it is uplit by diagonal lightssuspended beneath giving it an attractiveglowing appearance.

Surprisingly, the services are not on display, as is the case with so manymodern buildings, and are largely accom-modated in the large void underneath the ground floor.

TestimonialsLatest reports show the building isproving popular with co-workers, andStudio RHE itself has voted with its feet,renting a four person office to serve as abase for a special modular housingconcept it’s developing.

Summing up the project, Hywel Evanssays: “Businesses want to be in here and we love being in here. That’s a real testament to the trust between our clientand ourselves that enabled us to developthis space together, ultimately creating avisually rich, stimulating environment towork in.” �

PROJECT FACTFILE:HUCKLETREE WEST

Interior architecture & design: Studio RHEShell & core design:Allies & MorrisonClient: HuckletreeMain contractor: OD InteriorsVirtual reality specialist:Realities CentreInternal planting: Marcus FosterOriginal artwork: Golden WolfLighting products: AtriumStructural engineer: AKT IIServices engineer: Sweco

26 HUCKLETREE WEST, LONDON



Many of us spend a large propor-tion of our lives in the office – upto 40 hours per week or more –

and this can have a major impact on ourwork/life balance and wellbeing. There isnow greater awareness that a betterwork/life balance starts in the workplace. But how exactly do we define wellbeing

in the workplace? As important as‘wellness’ is, wellbeing actually goes waybeyond this. It’s a complex combination ofthe physical and psychological, as well associal and relationship aspects of ourworking lives. It includes factors such asour working environment, processes andeven how we get on with our managersand colleagues. One thing that’s for sure is that given the

rising statistics for absenteeism due toanxiety or depression, workplace wellbeingis a serious issue, and the cost to a companydue to poor employee wellbeing can besignificant. In addition to lost productivity,there are also added recruitment and training costs associated with a highturnover of staff. Put simply, when we’re happy and

healthy, we work better. However, whilearchitects are not responsible for theoverall culture of the organisation andhow employees are treated, when design-ing a workplace they can help create anenvironment that employees can engagewith, and feel comfortable in. Ideally, thisneeds to be an environment that fosterscreativity, collaboration, innovation, andeven thoughtfulness.The workplace is no longer a ‘one size

fits all’ environment. The new workplacecomprises a series of environments or‘habitats’ that enable us to easily switchour mode of focus – be it concentrating,learning, socialising, or collaborating. Byfurnishing these habitats with appropriatefurniture to support our various activitiesduring the course of a day, not only will itenhance our wellbeing, it will lead to amore streamlined and connectedworkplace in which we all stay fulfilled

and productive for longer periods.Typically, workplace habitats comprise a

‘welcome’ space that can double up as areception or business lounge, a ‘home’habitat where we perform our work, and a‘collaboration’ habitat that helps drivecommunication and collaboration. Inaddition, a ‘flow’ habitat offers primarypaths through the workplace that provideplenty of opportunities for planned andunplanned exchanges, together with formalmeeting habitats. ‘Work-cafe’ habitats arealso key environments for working andsocialising and refuelling. Office furniture has had to adapt signifi-

cantly to accommodate new and modernmethods of working. Instead of fixed desksthat are ‘owned’ by individuals in the ‘home’habitat, we now have ‘touchdown’ or‘breakout’ facilities where we can access the

Oliver Ronald of Boss Design looks at why employee wellbeing is heavily influencing workplace design and office furniture specification

The value of wellbeing

PICTUREDA work hub offers intimacy and privacy for individualsworking in solitude

27



relevant tools and technology to performour tasks. Such furniture provides anergonomically sound alternative to sitting ata desk or a table, and can be either stand-alone or grouped together to create flexiblespaces for a modern workplace. This is alsoideal for nomadic workers armed withlaptops, tablets and mobile phones, enablingthem to work anywhere, anytime.High backed meeting booths and stand-

alone personal high-back seating solutionsare hugely popular and ideal for breakingup large, open plan spaces (see images).While their primary purpose is to serveheads-down focus work, they also supportone-on-one collaboration. There’s also agrowing trend towards freestanding glass-fronted meeting pods that help continue theflow of nomadic working patterns andteamwork. Some even feature a ‘human-

centric lighting system that changes thecolour and intensity of white light in the pod in accordance with people’s natural circadian rhythms over the courseof the day, further promoting wellbeing. While workplaces are trending towards

open and flexible environments, it’s alsoimportant to remember the need for quiet,private spaces. Telephone pods provide amuch-needed place to concentrate and makeprivate calls, encouraging creative and individual working – both vital for amore productive working environment, andfor wellbeing.Good workplace design is no longer just

about specifying furniture for the spaceavailable. By tearing down walls and intro-ducing habitats, architects have significantfreedom in designing an environment thatcan foster greater wellbeing for all. Byspecifying furniture that enables the collab-orative sharing of new ideas and innovativethinking, as well as greater social interac-tion with our colleagues, our wellbeing andengagement will flourish, while thecompany’s bottom line will prosper.

Oliver Ronald is sales & marketing directorat Boss Design

Office furniture has had to adapt significantly toaccommodate new and modern methods of working

A modular unit with a contoured back for enhancedprivacy helps create an informal touchdown area

High tables and stools help assist with collaborativetasks and teamwork

28


Architects Data�le isindependently veri�ed by ABC.

So our advertisers know they are getting what they paid for.

ABC. See it. Believe it. Trust it


https://www.abc.org.uk/Certificates/48374969.pdf

The stage preceding the application of a floorcovering is an oftenoverlooked but critical part of the

process of creating a finished floor. When itcomes to getting the substrate ready to receivethe floorcovering, specific knowledge of thesubfloor becomes much more important.

In addition to mechanical preparation toremove problematic materials and mitigationof moisture that can result in floor failures,smoothing compounds are applied to enablea smooth floor to be installed. But what arethe key issues for installing such compoundsin different settings?

To enable adhesives to dry into thesubstrate, and therefore to bond, it is neces-sary to provide a 3 mm absorptive medium.This is particularly important on non-poroussubstrates such as DPMs, power floatedconcrete and terrazzo. Generally, priming isrequired but most smoothing compounds aresuitable for this.

An isolation layer is often required foroffice refurbishment projects where a floorhas been uplifted and there are old adhesivesand even previous smoothing compoundsthat are neither smooth enough norabsorbent enough for adhesives to beapplied. The smoothing compound needs tohave excellent adhesion and generally lowerstrength. The reason for choosing a lowerstrength product is to minimise tension onthe unknown layers below.

Although the industry uses the term ‘flexi-ble smoothing compound,’ this is prettymuch a misnomer. It is very hard to get acement or calcium sulphate product to beflexible. What we can do however is fibre-reinforce the compound to help minimisecrack formation under extreme conditions.Such conditions would include when thesmoothing compound is being used overunderfloor heating mats, or screed boardswhere the subfloor is not stable.

In terms of finish, in some settings thesmoothing compound being applied also hasto act as the finished wear surface.Manufacturers can advise on these specialistproducts, which need to be both strong andalso capable of resisting abrasion from

whatever is occurring above. They may needto be sealed or painted.

Often on projects there may be areaswhere the subfloor needs to be raised asignificant amount – ‘deep section’ applica-tions. This can include where floor levelsvary, partitions have been removed or matwells need filling. Many smoothingcompounds may achieve this but often thedrying and curing rates are slow. In thisinstance, rapid drying products are recom-mended, curing in days rather than weekswhen applied at thicknesses of up to 50 mm.

Some substrates are not suitable to directlyreceive standard smoothing compounds dueto chemical interaction or surface effects. Inthese cases, a suitable barrier primer or anon-standard smoothing compound may bethe answer. Again, check with manufacturersif you have any unknown or atypicalsubstrates as there usually is a solution.

Smoothing compounds are the key toensuring the designed and specified floorstays firmly fixed, but it’s important to beaware they do not all do the same thing.Some have niche uses, whereas others aregenerally high performing workhorses tocover an array of situations.

Martin Cummins is UK technical supportmanager at Bostik

Martin Cummins of Bostik looks at why smoothing compounds are advisable forworkplace floors, and the key specification considerations to achieve the right result

Smooth operators

An isolation layer is oftenrequired for officerefurbishment projectswhere a floor has beenuplifted and there are oldadhesives present

29


O


https://www.bostik.com/UK/

https://www.bostik.com/UK/

A bespoke solution that can be chosen

f

The minimum requirement of an officespace should be to enable profession-als to be able to work efficiently and

comfortably. Good quality lighting alsooptimises the working environment, boost-ing employee productivity. End-users areexploring new ways to enhance employeewellbeing, whilst maintaining a focus onenergy savings, and improved efficiency.

Recognising continued growth in manysectors and in particular the commercialoffice market, lighting manufacturers are endeavouring to play a huge part inproviding high quality lighting designspecialism for clients. Combining cuttingedge design with the latest LED technologyresults in the very best lighting solutions forthe workplace environment.

Pushing the boundaries of what lightingcan achieve and focusing on providingenergy savings are the key elements for light-ing office space. LEDs have improved hugelyin a very short period of time, and alongsidegood colour rendering is excellent lifeexpectancy, plus lumen outputs are up, andwattages are down. There is no longer asacrifice in quality for efficiency – both arenow achievable without blowing the budget.

Understanding and anticipating the end-user’s requirements requires lightingdesigners to create bespoke lighting solutionsto address the need of the office environ-ment. As well as continuing to consider theimportance of good glare control, they areplacing significance on ‘lighting the task’ andenabling the client to save money on areasthat were previous under or over lit.

A quick solution would be to simply offera one-for-one replacement. Energy savingcan be achieved, by some, using this princi-ple, however, it’s invaluable to alsoencourage reduction in luminaire quantities

where and when it is possible. Deliveringgood lighting means taking into considera-tion where and what the task is andrecognising that not all employees requirethe same solution. It is also the role of thelighting designer to create an environmentfor good communication and enablingemployees to focus.

The office should ideally inspire staff, andbecause we spend most of our time behindour desks, this is where lighting can play abig role. This means good lighting levels, sothat the office worker can perform their taskeffectively, uniform lighting so that their eyesare not trying to frequently adapt, and aminimum of shadows, because these willdistract attention. In larger, open plan areaswith so many different activities and individ-uals in one place, it also helps to have goodquality lighting to provide a pleasant andmotivating workspace.

Various buildings within theHertfordshire County Council Estate(HCC) have recently been refurbished withcost-effective LED lighting solutions toimprove energy efficiencies and reducemaintenance, including a major office light-ing upgrade at HCC’s Farnham andRobertson House Buildings in Stevenage.

The extensive open plan office facilitieswere originally lit with 55 W PL compactfluorescent luminaires. To meet their objectives, Hertfordshire County Councilrequired a lighting refurbishment wheresignificant cost savings and return on invest-ment could be demonstrated, energyefficiencies made to lower CO2 emissionsand a massive reduction in maintenance.HCC also recognised the benefits of goodlighting and providing ambient surroundingsthat stimulates a feeling of wellbeing andmotivation in the workplace.

LED luminaires offer excellent efficacyand these qualities allow for a sizeablereduction in the number of luminaireshelping to provide additional return oninvestment for a lighting refurbishment.

Maria Holton is senior lighting designengineer at Luceco

Maria Holton of Luceco explains how the importance of lighting comfort in theworkplace has grown in importance, alongside the focus on efficiency

Ef�ciency expectations

End-users are exploring new ways to enhanceemployee wellbeing

30



https://www.luceco.com/uk

https://www.luceco.com/uk

Door handles are often the visitor’s first physical contact with a building,and consequently provide an

instant first impression of the environment.As such, ironmongery can subconsciouslycreate a positive and lasting impact. For a corporate business environment,

it’s important to have a long lasting, low maintenance ironmongery solution that continues to look in pristine conditionafter consistent high-use. It should thereforebe certified to BS EN 1906 grade 4 categoryof use. A high quality, stainless steel solutionis therefore often specified, providing atimeless and user-friendly design. Providing the highest level of corrosion

resistance and tolerance for busy commercial environments, ranges usingmarine grade 316 solid stainless steel can besupplied with up to a 25-year warranty.Available with standard satin or polishedfinishes, they can seamlessly integrate withsurrounding stainless steel fixings. Ironmongery specialists can also offer

bespoke satin or polished finishes to stainlesssteel products. Physical Vapour Deposition(PVD) can provide long-lasting brass, bronze,black or gold decorative coatings, asexamples, for a distinctive finish. To create a more bespoke offering and

provide design flexibility for architects, a‘mix and match’ solution can be provided.Allowing each component of the handle tobe chosen from various designs, a centralnode unites each of the components. Thisallows specifiers to choose rounded, bullet ordrum tips and pair it with a crescent, straightor propeller grip. Creating a lever handle thatcan integrate with the building’s feel anddesign, such ranges offer increased flexibilityand creativity for commercial applications. Incorporating texture as well as colour,

forward-thinking ironmongery manufactur-ers offer the option of a fabric grip for leverand pull handles, increasing the options forarchitects further. Perfect for creating aunique environment for specific floors ordepartments, incorporating colour andtexture into ironmongery can help visitors,particularly those who are visually impaired,

find their way around a building. A bespoke solution that can be chosen

from hundreds of design options, a colourfuland textured lever handle can help create alasting positive first impression of a buildingor organisation. To complement hygiene and infection

protocols, healthcare and hospital environ-ments can specify copper alloy antimicrobialironmongery. Providing added value to aninstallation, copper alloy ironmongery offersthe visible ‘sterile’ appearance of stainlesssteel combined with the antimicrobialproperties of copper. This allows the antimi-crobial range to seamlessly integrate withsurrounding stainless steel door hardwareand modern interiors. Ranges certified by the Copper

Development Association and showing theCu+ mark authenticate the ironmongery’sability to consistently eradicate harmfulbacteria and microbes, such as influenzaand Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA). Eliminating high touch frequency points

such as door handles or push plates asinfection transfer points, such solutions canreduce the risk of healthcare-associatedinfections (HCAIs) and therefore provide atangible return on investment for hospitalsand care home environments.Alternatively, healthcare and environ-

mentally focused buildings can benefitfrom timber-based ironmongery solutions.Warm to the touch, oak ironmongeryranges with a super circular shape providethe most comfortable grip for patients,especially those suffering from arthritis orneuropathy. First impressions are vital for creating a

comfortable and inviting space for newemployees, clients and guests. With ironmon-gery experts offering comprehensive rangesdeveloped for specific applications, anironmongery solution can meet both thepractical and aesthetic needs of a building tocreate the right first impression.

Franz Lorenschitz is marketing manager at Allgood

Franz Lorenschitz of Allgood explores the power of ironmongery to offer the right firstimpression to users across a range of settings

First impressions

FIRST CONTACTDoor handles are often the visitor’s first physical contact with a building, providing an instantaneousfirst impression of the environment

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http://www.allgood.co.uk/

http://www.allgood.co.uk/

Soundproofing is often overlookedwhen it comes to designing theworkplace. Poor acoustics leads to

increased noise levels and distractions,resulting in an unhappy, stressed workforce. Aesthetics and functionality are the

primary focus when designing office space,particularly in modern city offices whereminimalist interiors and exposed brickworkare the norm. This style looks great andbrings a certain level of chic and prestige toa brand, but when employees move in andteam numbers grow, so too do the noiselevels. As noise levels increase, so do levelsof discontent, distraction, unrest and stress.

Design just for the eyes?The Center for the Built Environment at theUniversity of Berkeley in Californiaconducted a survey of people who work inan office environment, and found thataround 50 per cent of workers in open planoffice environments think acoustics inter-fere with their productivity levels and theirability to get their work done.The major problems proved to be

ambient noise from co-workers talking ontelephones, people overhearing privateconversations, and the muffled sound ofpeople talking in surrounding offices. How

Designing the ideal workplace acoustics is a complex challenge, but getting the rightbalance of aesthetics and effective soundproofing is crucial for business success, as HushAcoustics’ Robert Crampton explains

Successful soundproo�ng

As noise levels increase,so do levels of discontent,distraction and stress

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https://www.hushacoustics.co.uk/

It is essential thatarchitects considersoundproofing in theearly design stages

many times have you thought to yourself: “Ican’t hear myself think!” With currentdesign trends for commercial interiorsfocusing on open plan offices and with anincreasing need for collaboration betweenemployees, it is clear there needs to be acareful balance of quiet and reasonablynoisy spaces at work.

The Guardian also published a reportwhich affirmed the findings of the Centerfor the Built Environment study. Acousticsexpert and author of ‘Sound Business’Julian Treasure explained that it’s just asimportant for a building to performacoustically as it is visually. “We experienceevery space in five senses so it's strange thatarchitects design just for the eyes,” he said.“Sound in a space affects us profoundly. Itchanges our heart rate, breathing, hormonesecretion, brain waves, it affects ouremotions and our cognition.”

Studies have shown that once distracted,productivity drops, and it can take as longas 20 minutes for an employee to regainconcentration on complex tasks. They havealso revealed that an employee was muchmore likely to make a mistake in their work.

Improving productivity & concentrationIntegrating better acoustical solutions intoworkplace environments should be more ofa focus going forward, whether for a newbuild, refurbishment or change-of-useoffice development. It is essential thatarchitects, developers and other profession-als consider soundproofing in the earlydesign stages of a project. This increasesthe effectiveness of the soundproofing andreduces any further costs down the linewhere remedial work is needed.

The most effective way to reduce rever-beration, airborne and (to an extent) impactnoise levels within the workplace is to usehigh quality acoustic products in the rightapplication. It is a good idea to involve anacoustic technician to provide guidancehere, as reverberation rates and times arenot something the average employer will befamiliar with. All soundproofing productsused should comply with UK BuildingRegulations Approved Document E(England & Wales), Section 5 of theScottish Building Standards (Scotland) andApproved Part G (Northern Ireland). Theseregulations set out important criteria forsound insulation performance for all typesof commercial buildings.

There are acoustic products and systemsout there that offer significant soundproof-ing capabilities for workplaces of all types.

For new build office developments, adouble timber stud wall system is an effec-tive way of reducing airborne noise sources.The stud frames in the wall are insulatedusing a sound absorber and then layeredwith Soundbloc plasterboard. This combi-nation drastically reduces airborne noiselevels between offices and other internalspaces within commercial buildings andcomplies with Building Regulations.For office space that has already been

designed in a style that meets an employer’srequirements a sound absorber is an effec-tive way to reduce ambient noise andreverberation. These acoustic panels have aClass A absorption rating and require nobuilding work to be carried out. A soundtechnician simply works out how manypanels are needed and the best position forthem, and they are then fitted to either thewall or ceiling in the workplace.A well-designed workspace should offer

stunning aesthetics but also fully takeacoustics into consideration. Above all, itshould be comfortable for employees towork in where collaboration is common-place but isn’t distracting for otherco-workers. Happy workforces make forconstructive workforces, which ultimatelybenefits a company’s business.

Robert Crampton is managing director ofHush Acoustics

PICTUREDHD1054 double stud wall build-up

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https://www.hushacoustics.co.uk/

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Architects Datafile websiteThe Architects Datafile (ADF) website isan online provider of past and presentproducts and news items for the architector specifier. architectsdatafile.co.uk is aone-stop source for all the latest pressreleases providing any visitor with accessto information about products and services that they may require. From thewebsite, you can find links to digital

issues that have live links to advertisers’ sites, as well as daily emailalerts to keep you as informed as possible.

www.architectsdatafile.co.uk

Boon Edam installed at 1 Fitzroy PlaceBoon Edam, global entry experts, installedfive of its Swinglane 900 security lanes toThe Estee Lauder Companies headquarterslocated at 1 Fitzroy Place. A wide Swinglanewas also installed for designated disabledaccess. Finished in a powder coating, thesecurity lanes feature a stainless-steel card

reader for access control and status indicator windows at either endfor ease of use. They achieve a high flow rate of up to 30 people perminute in one direction. The Swinglane 900’s design allows forbespoke customisations when a unique appearance is required.

www.boonedam.co.uk

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Gerflor ‘create’ positive workplaceSeymour Distribution is part of the FrontlineGroup and is the largest distributor of UKmagazines internationally. Their new officesabove Smithfield Market in London mirrorstheir distinct approach to business ethos anddiversity. In specifying the all-important floor-

ing aspect of the project Blue Jelly would select some 113m2 ofCreation 70 LVT flooring from international flooring specialistsGerflor. This amazing range won the 2017 CFJ/CFA Product of theyear and their Creation 70 product scooped the coveted Red DotDesign award last year, which is akin to receiving a ‘Design Oscar’.

01926 622600 www.gerflor.co.uk

Saracen completes work on heritage siteA leading workplace consultant, SaracenInteriors has completed a 6000sq ftfast-track, repair and refurbishmentproject for global educational charity, theEnglish Speaking Union (ESU) at itsprestigious headquarters, just off Berkeley

Square in Mayfair. Work was undertaken on the ground floor and inthe basement library to make good the damage caused by a leak.Painstaking care and attention was taken by the team to ensure thatall refurbishments met the high standards and quality of the currentfitting of this high design, Grade 2 listed building.

www.saraceninteriors.com

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Luceco lights Kendal Rugby Union Football Club – MintbridgeLuceco has recently supplied LED luminaires for an £11M sports facility, the new home for Kendal RugbyUnion Football Club (KRUFC). The brand-new facility benefits from two large hospitality areas and a viewingbalcony overseeing two pitches, one grass and one all-weather surface, a restaurant, physio practice and aCommunity Gymnasium, Esteem. LED 600 x 600 square LuxPanels were installed in offices and consultingrooms with IP65 rated Circular LuxPanels used in changing rooms, shower facilities and WCs. LuxPanelrequires no maintenance over its lifetime with over 50,000 hours of operational life as does the IP65 ClimateLED luminaire used in kitchens and servery, cellar and various storage areas. Platinum downlighters wereinstalled in the main entrance area, lounge bar, corridors throughout the clubhouse, gymnasium, and shop.Platinum features easy fit positive locating swing out tabs and running cost savings of up to 80 per cent whencompared to traditional luminaires. Versatile IP65 rated LED Atlas luminaires were used on stairwells alsowith over 50,000 hours of maintenance free operation. For more information contact Luceco.

[email protected]

The silence of international designSetter Architects have designed stunning new offices for several international companies, including Palo AltoNetworks. The link between these projects is the way their interiors all benefit from high performance acousticceilings manufactured by Troldtekt in Denmark. Palo Alto Networks is a company involved in developingcyber defence solutions. Located on the 24th floor of a complex of multi-storey office towers in a colourfuland historical part of Tel Aviv, the design inspiration is the introduction of eclectic low-tech external elementsto the interior. These include steel window profiles and garage doors, exposed bricks, old textured glass todivide public spaces and historic artefacts. Palo Alto benefits from stunning aesthetics and controlled environ-ments which absorb the sounds and reverberations from hard surfaces and the natural echoes. The superioracoustic performance of the ceilings is combined with different forms of lighting, air-conditioning and ampli-fiers. Apart from high sound absorption, other benefits include durability and natural breathability coupledwith low cost performance and sustainability as documented by Cradle to Cradle certification at silver level.

www.troldtekt.co.uk

Knauf provide world class acoustic designThe R&A worldwide golf governing body basedat St Andrews, has a purpose-built equipmenttesting centre, Allan Robertson House. The newbuilding utilises the latest technology, is energyefficient, maximises the use of natural daylightand uses sustainable materials. Heradesign® andThermatex® ceilings from Knauf AMF are fitted

throughout to provide essential sound attenuation, add aestheticappeal and meet environmental requirements. Heradesign® is ideal forthe test centre because it offers outstanding sound absorption,excellent impact resistance and a high fire safety rating.

0191 5188600 www.amfceilings.co.uk

Bloc flooring makes a statementPolyflor commercial vinyl flooring from theBloc collection was recently chosen to add asplash of colour to Rivington Street Studioarchitectural practice in London. The SoftMoss shade from the Bloc range adds earthi-ness and warmth to the otherwise minimalistic

interior. Bloc PUR allows customers to create a tonal, complementaryor harmonious interior design scheme through the availability of 16enticing colours. Featuring a single solid colour with a textured mattemboss, Bloc has a 0.7mm fully pigmented homogenous PVC wearlayer of pure colour and a polyurethane reinforcement.

0161 767 1111 www.polyflor.com



www.century-office.co.uk/

Documents

ADF01 D&AW Supp Cover Layout 1 04/01/2018 10:48 Page 1 WORKPLACE …€¦ · Designing the ideal workplace acoustics is a complex challenge, but getting the right balance of aesthetics