Edinburgh

A leading technology firm's decision to merge two of their city-centre offices resulted in co-location on the first floor of a new, award-winning, sustainable development.

The brief demanded a workplace which supported their Hybrid Working model and provided quiet, focused spaces for the tech engineers.

The base building features an exposed concrete soffit which, although visually striking, posed challenges in terms of sound reverberation.

To reduce echo, and provide acoustic privacy for staff, a range of acoustic solutions were introduced including Class A acoustic rafts and baffles, covering 60% of the ceiling, and recycled plastic (PET) felt desk dividers and hanging screens.

Suspended wood wool ceilings, with acoustic backing, were added to meeting rooms to improve sound absorption.

Factoring in future expansion, an allowance for additional workstations has been made and flexible furniture solutions have been implemented in the collaboration area.

A generously designed community area will ensure continued operational effectiveness, even with a growth in numbers.

A natural and textured material palette was chosen, to align with the Company’s other offices, featuring the brand's signature evergeen, with warm timber finishes, planting and biophilia.

The office has two entrance points - one for staff, one for visitors - and the design naturally divides the client-facing areas from the staff zones.

The visitor experience is warm and inviting with feature pendant lighting creating a softer, almost residential, feel.

Bespoke seating faces timber slat panelling, subtly reinforcing the company’s branding, and the area is complemented by meeting rooms, a project space and video conferencing facility.

Abundant natural light creates a bright, open environment, with views out to nature.

The staff entrance features a stunning, timber-slatted, archway with built-in lighting, which serves to guide people and creates a sense of interconnectivity.

Form’s design team created a cost-effective solution by carefully selecting finishes and, where no suitable furniture could be found, designing bespoke joinery.

Existing heating trench grilles and lighting tracks were retained and adapted, with finishes being selected based on their sustainability credentials.

The base building is the first of seven Net Zero Carbon office buildings in the area and the office fit-out reflects the building’s sustainability ethos. 

The completed project offers a contemporary interior which enhances the experience of staff and visitors.

The design has successfully optimised the acoustic environment, supports the company’s ways of working and allows for future expansion.

The fit-out also aligns with the organisation’s global standards, creating an attractive, intuitive workspace to support their culture and environmental goals.