Gensler collaborated with Virgin Media O2 to design an inclusive, sustainable and ultra-connected London headquarters which provides a brand-new office space for thousands of employees to meet and collaborate on their office days, while also supporting the company’s flexible working policies.
Located in Paddington and spanning 81,750 sq. ft across 6 floors plus additional ground floor space, the new purpose-built home – which represents Virgin Media O2’s first major office investment since their merger in June 2021 – was designed with connectivity at its core and focused on the concept of bringing Virgin Media O2’s purpose – ‘see what you can do’ – to life. Gensler’s design team achieved this through a rewarding co-creative partnership, engaging closely with employee focus groups, DE&I representatives, and the in-house brand team.
With inclusivity as a key driver in the design concept, Gensler partnered with an accessibility and DE&I consultant throughout the process and worked closely with the client’s DE&I employee representative group to ensure the space caters to all. The resulting design sees each floor provide a unique destination for staff which recognises varying needs and empowers individuals to select spaces that suit their preferences. Alternative spaces have also been integrated including libraries, and comfortable seating areas for screenings.
Gensler worked closely with the brand team to tailor the design to their purpose and messaging. The brand palette is woven throughout the space, and each floor features destination zones which connect users with different aspects of their mission – ‘connect + inform’, ‘supercharge’, ‘perform’, and ‘transform’. Inspired by Virgin Media O2’s ethos of connectivity, these zones are themed around cultural threads of influence which connect individuals with their passions, encompassing activities such as sports, streaming, gaming, music, dance, and a versatile arena space.
Informal hospitality-led arrival points act as ‘supercharged’ moments on every floor, facilitating spontaneous encounters. This setup encourages informal connections with colleagues, before transitioning to workspace areas. The space plan positions everyone near windows, offering wellness benefits, and views, while the top floor houses a café, and a large event area.
Sustainability was also a key driver in the design with the office targeting WELL Platinum, and BREEAM Outstanding certifications. The Gensler design team integrated sustainable practices, including carbon tracking, resulting in approximately 630 tonnes of carbon saved through sustainable materials and strategies. Existing light fittings were also reused and repurposed to minimise environmental impact.
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