Spacestor | HMRC

HMRC

As part of their framework scheme, we worked with Overbury and Ward Robinson to create a brand new, showcase location for the organisations 'Workplaces of the Future'

Location

Newcastle Upon Tyne

designed by

Ward Robinson

built by

Overbury

As part of their framework scheme, we worked with Overbury and Ward Robinson to create a brand new, showcase location for the organisations 'Workplaces of the Future': an office and events space that sets the standard for collaboration and employee engagement. As a complete re-envisaging of their current space, this showcase location had to be transformative.

The triple-height atrium that runs the length of the building, soaks the space with natural light from the vast, glass ceiling above. This overabundance of light creates an open and inviting avenue through the centre of the space, that is finished with a range of collaboration spaces. Through the centre of the avenue, the space features several runs of our Railway Carriages. Customized with beachhut graphics and a seaside-feel, these booths are perfect for solo working or collaborative meetings, and feature stunning prints of the North England's dynamic landscape. The acoustic properties of the booth provide sound insulation and a sense of privacy insulated with acoustic absorbing panels to provide solace from the open space, yet also a sense of privacy for those using the meeting space. Integrating a monitor into each of the Railway Carriages allows staff to seamlessly work from wherever they choose.

The design uses our Palisades Grid to divide up the much larger open-plan space into multiple, smaller environs. Integrating technology with the inclusion of the TV alcove means that the employees can truly work from anywhere, as well as use the space for larger presentations and meetings. The versatile furniture selection allows the space to be subdivided into smaller neighbourhoods and areas, and quickly reconfigured without requiring building works. Consequently they can scale their office space to meet the needs of different teams and projects on-demand, without requiring lengthy waits or any extra expenditure.

The core goal of the project was to meet strict sustainability and accessibility requirements and has resulted in a dynamic and engaging workspace that transforms the perception of public sector workplaces. The collaborative areas at the centre of this new space are prime locations for casual meetings and catchups; from café-esque seating to larger boardroom setups, and even a circular amphitheatre. Another driver for the programme was to provide efficiency for their customers while improving the ways that the staff worked with one another. Their new fit out helps achieve this by reducing their real estate footprint, lowering ongoing running costs and greatly improving staff morale, efficiency and productivity.

Photography Credit: Andrew Smith

Products featured in this project

Railway Carriage New

Meeting Spaces, Pods & Booths