Earlier this year, we relocated our London studio and reimagined it as a living lab. We set out to create a space that adapts to how we work, supports our people and keeps sustainability at its core. It’s a place where we can test ideas, try new approaches and learn from how it’s used each day.
Building on insights from our previous studio, this article explores how workplace strategy and design thinking shaped our new space. It also demonstrates our approach to workplace consultancy in London and beyond, with people at the heart of every decision.
Our London workplace design started with one question: how do people really work? Designers, strategists, engineers and other specialists all need different settings to do their best work. Some days call for quiet focus, others collaboration or creativity.
So, we created a variety of spaces with different functional and sensory qualities. This gives people the freedom to think, create, connect and recharge in the ways that suit them best.
Like with all our workplace strategy services in London, we treated the office design process in the same way we would for a client. Deep planning, iterative testing and a commitment to co-creation. Before locking in the final layout, we invited teams to explore the proposed space using floor tape, image boards and VR headsets. This ultimately gave everyone the opportunity to share their reactions.
We really enjoyed taking the team through the journey of discovery. We made significant, important changes based on that gut instinct and reaction from people.
Frances Gain, Associate Director, Workplace Strategy and TransformationThis interactive approach gave the project real energy and authenticity. Our people became co-creators, helping shape key decisions.
We also had a group of internal change champions, known as the Movers, who kept communication flowing. Their support helped drive engagement with 81% of people saying they feel welcomed and included in the new space.
Technology plays an important role in our London workplace design. It makes hybrid working seamless and helps us track how the space is used. By gathering data on occupancy, team behaviours and movement patterns, we can understand what works and where there’s room to improve.
Our London studio is a living lab, where we’re constantly piloting new layouts, settings and ways of working. This continuous feedback loop keeps the space alive.
Since the move, the impact has been clear. 82% of people say they feel more productive and we’ve already hit our 2030 occupancy targets. It’s a reminder that when design reflects real behaviour, it delivers results.
Survey feedback also gave us a few key insights:
We responded with clearly defined zones that enable quiet work, active collaboration, informal interaction and more. This gives people plenty of choice throughout the day.
High-quality acoustics in open-plan areas reduce distractions. Layered settings provide flexibility and control. Sensory elements such as lighting, texture and natural materials subtly create a calm, comfortable environment.
Our people reviewing the proposed layout 
Exploring the VR replica of the studio Our London workplace strategy brings our values of creativity, collaboration and innovation to life.
We designed around core principles:
A rotating art piece at the entrance adds a gallery-like moment of creativity and curiosity. From the welcoming front of house to deep focus spaces in the back, the studio reflects our culture and gives people what they need.
Sustainability was a key priority in our London office workplace strategy. We looked at what we already had and found ways to make it work harder.
Before the fit-out began, we did a detailed audit of existing furniture, fixtures and finishes. Many items were reused, including workstations, meeting tables and lounge furniture. This helped reduce waste while lowering the carbon impact of manufacturing and shipping.
The success of our London living lab shows what’s possible when workplace strategy is approached holistically, from people engagement and technology to sustainability and brand.
Charlie Millard, Regional Director, EMEAOur London workplace experience shows what’s possible when you put people at the forefront of design. With a clear workplace strategy, we’ve created a space that supports how we work, connect and grow. By connecting data, design thinking and feedback from our teams, we’ve built a workplace that has the flexibility to evolve continually.
Learn more about our London living lab.
Our team specialises in human-centred workplace strategy, flexible workplace design solutions and sustainable office transformation.
Looking for workplace consultancy in London? Connect with our team to explore how workplace strategy and design can support your employee experience and business goals.
