CLS wanted to create a workspace that balanced functionality and beauty while building a strong sense of community.
When CLS’ incoming tenant relocated from a lower ground floor office with limited natural light, they wanted to bring a sense of warmth and belonging to their new, larger space. With 12,000 sq ft to work with, the goal was to create an office that felt as welcoming as their previous one while improving functionality and flexibility.
It was crucial that the design reflected the voices of the people using the space. Staff engagement workshops, block planning exercises and interactive design sessions helped shape the final look and feel. The result was a workplace shaped by its people, for its people, with flexible and inclusive space where work, collaboration and social connection could happen effortlessly.
The overall aesthetic was designed to be calm and inviting; a neutral palette with soft greens created an inviting and restful environment, while subtle pops of red – used in the acoustic partitioning, furniture and locker numbering – provided a nod to the client’s branding. A variety of work settings, including desks, phone booths, collaboration zones and booths meant employees had the freedom to choose how and where they worked best.
Meeting spaces were designed with flexibility in mind. Three meeting rooms feature sliding acoustic walls, allowing them to open up into one larger space when needed. To ensure the office could evolve over time, all meeting rooms and offices were fitted with the same flooring, making it easy to repurpose spaces without the need for major renovations.
A key requirement was space for their weekly 130 person townhall meetings, which rather than a standalone space, was created with plenty of space to sit and connect, with a tea point, a counter with barstools, large communal tables, smaller café style seating, a sofa area and nearby touchdown spots. This central social hub has become the heart of the office in the middle of the office’s H shape, encouraging movement and interaction, bringing teams together rather than keeping them apart.
Accessibility was a key consideration throughout the design process. The occupier provided Morgan Lovell with a report from disability charity Leonard Cheshire of which they incorporated several inclusive features, including wheelchair friendly tea points, height adjustable desks, and dedicated quiet areas with red and white acoustic partitioning. Additional thoughtful details, such as a notch in the reception desk for a walking stick, ensured the space worked for everyone.
The end result is a workplace that is not just functional but also welcoming, inclusive and adaptable. With an intuitive layout, flexible spaces and design choices shaped by employee input, CLS has created an environment that supports both work and wellbeing – one where everyone feels at home.
Design:
Photography: courtesy of CLS Holdings
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