Sheldon Square, London

Exceptional refurbishment of client offices in Paddington Basin

Our client wanted to create new office spaces to support employee innovation and wellbeing. Box Architects worked with its partners to complete the first stage of a rolling refurbishment project of its London offices in Sheldon Square.

The initial phases included a new, reconfigured reception area, IT and finance departments as well as the refurbishment of male and female washrooms on every floor. Works were carried out in a complex and highly security-sensitive, live office environment with the public reception area remaining operational throughout.

Box Architects worked with CBRE and Futurebrand in the design development and technical delivery of this major office refurbishment project.

The design strategy aims to showcase our client’s brand presence and values: supporting the ‘people behind the payments’; creating a ‘well’ building; and signaling that it is an innovative technological company by integrating cutting-edge AV systems throughout.

Our client recognises that in an increasingly competitive market, workplace quality is a key way to attract and retain the best talent. This was achieved by creating a healthy, contemporary environment to inspire innovation. The building features new informal breakout areas surrounded by dense planting and includes a mix of colours and natural materials.

A wide variety of working, meeting and informal soft seating spaces were incorporated to encourage different kinds of collaboration between teams. Layouts were reconfigured to increase natural lighting levels wherever possible.

Box Architects liaised with company stakeholders as well as Futurebrand to fully understand the client’s requirements. It also coordinated with numerous specialist subcontractors and consultants to deliver the exceptionally high standard of finish required.

Anna Hollyman, Associate Director at Box Architects, says: “This first stage of our refurbishment has achieved the balance of meeting a high-quality specification and innovative AV systems with exceptional details throughout the building. The project has a strong wellness focus – something many more of our clients are recognising is important to attract the highest calibre of employees.

“We thoroughly enjoyed working alongside CBRE and Futurebrand. We hope staff will continue to enjoy their new spaces.”