A workplace shaped by movement
WORKPLACE
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The priorities Capital Group’s new offices at 1 Paddington Square were connection and wellbeing; creating a workplace for 1,000 associates that would encourage paths to cross, teams to collaborate and would allow everyone to find their own space. The challenge was to achieve this across a vertical stack of nine floors in the new Renzo Piano-designed building in Paddington.
Tajal Ruthford-Bhatt, Principal Director
Part of the solution was to turn the necessary vertical circulation into an opportunity. A sculptural staircase flows through the centre of the floorplate from the top and bottom levels, meeting in the middle. Partially screened by vertical fins, this stair provides a distinctive centrepiece, as well as a space to bump into colleagues, chat and see other departments.
The team identified the centre of the stack, where the two staircases meet, as the natural place for people to gather. Generous social, study and relaxation spaces are located here, including a café, games area and wellness studios with contemplation rooms, a parenting suite, library, medical facility and a tech-free space to recharge. There’s also an ‘outside-in’ space, where people can feel connected to nature while high above Paddington’s rooftops.
Moving through the building, subtle variations in the design language aid wayfinding. Throughout, the interiors concept makes the most of the waterside location, drawing inspiration from the ripples and light on Paddington Basin. A wave of lighting flows through circulation spaces, complemented by soft-edged furniture and curved timber walls.
The workspaces respond to diverse working needs and are as varied as the activities they support, with sit-stand desks and collaboration tables in a range of formations replacing traditional banks of desks. These are supported by focus rooms, which are private spaces for one or two associates to meet, and ‘huddle lounges’, with more relaxed seating for larger groups.
The design balances these professional, yet relaxed spaces for teams with a memorable client suite on the top floor. Echoing the fluid lighting below, a warm-hued metallic ceiling curves to link the reception area to meeting rooms and a 148-seat tiered auditorium. In an unusual move, the audience is oriented to face the open backdrop of full-height windows and sweeping views over central London.
By supporting different ways of working and prioritising wellbeing, the design gives Capital Group a unique advantage – a workplace that associates enjoy and an environment that can adapt and evolve with the business.
