Newcastle
Transforming a City Centre Building into a Productive Workspace
Designing a Flexible and Wellbeing-Focused Workplace
The Vision
Our recent project with Naylors Gavin Black in Newcastle city centre involved taking on a 5-storey building located on a bustling public footpath, with a stringent move-in date and unique logistical challenges. We transformed an empty shell into a fully functional, well-designed, and productive workspace that not only meets but exceeds the needs of the North East’s largest independent commercial property consultancy.
The Workspace
When creating the 3,000 sqft office space for Naylors Gavin Black, we focused on maximizing the use of the area by incorporating breakout areas and adding partitions to create a flexible working environment. This new workspace brings together 38 staff members in a setting specifically designed to support their wellbeing and productivity. Key features include high bench seating, group working booths, and breakout areas for informal catch-ups or client meetings. We retained the exposed ceiling that allowed us to create a feature ceiling raft above the central breakout space complete with inset LED lights and pendant lighting. This focal point has created a central ‘hub’ that enhances collaboration and interaction.
Calming green pastel colours and biophilic elements, such as light, natural wood used for flooring, tables, and furniture, contribute to a serene atmosphere. These natural materials extend to feature walls in the main meeting room and central hub space, adding both aesthetic interest and acoustic properties to balance sound in the office. Contrasting black accents in furniture and lighting fixtures provide an industrial, gritty feel that gives depth and dimension to the space.
Lighting was a key element in this project; we used it to create decorative yet functional elements throughout the space. From a technical perspective, we updated the Fire Alarm System and installed a new HVAC system, along with mechanical and electrical upgrades. We ensured that all the new systems complied with the building’s fire regulations.
Stats
Sq ft
3000
Location
Newcastle
The Delivery
The successful delivery of the Naylors Gavin Black project not only met but exceeded the client’s expectations, showcasing our ability to manage complex projects within strict timelines and challenging conditions. This project stands as a testament to our commitment to excellence in project management and client satisfaction.
The new office, officially opened as One Strawberry Lane, embodies a contemporary new look that merges functionality with a strong emphasis on staff wellbeing, making it an ideal workspace for the company’s future growth and success.
Client
Journey
Workplace
Concept
Design
Budgets
Detailed
Design
Procurement
Project
Delivery
Handover
Day 2 Care
The team at Naylors Gavin Black were looking for a welcoming office space that was centred around supporting staff wellbeing. Naylors Gavin Black has been great to work with. The team trusted our vision and together, we’ve created a wellbeing-focused office that also provides an optimized environment to hold meetings with clients and landlords.