Design & Space Planning
Fit-Out
Furniture
As the oldest ecological society in the world, the British Ecological Society needed a workplace that would improve their organisational capabilities while highlighting the heritage and enduring values of their organisation. Their new HQ is an environmentally sustainable nod to their efficient and environmental way of working all while they serve the community and the natural world.
The BES wished to consider their environmental impacts and staff health and wellbeing from the outset of the design process. With this in mind, we evaluated the environmental performance of the final space closely with the client throughout the entire process. Each detail was carefully considered, including planting throughout the office to enhance employee wellbeing and improve air quality, in addition to a moss feature wall at the entrance that encouraged a connection with nature. Meeting rooms were also planned on the lower ground floor to maintain the natural light and views on the ground floor level for the staff at their desks.
As an organisation with a very specific and focussed mission, it was important that their workspace reflected the passion behind their work. A range of bold colours and images reflecting the natural world were used throughout, with five meeting rooms uniquely identified by different habitats: Amazon, Serengeti, St. Kilda, Yukon and Gobi. By incorporating biophilic design elements, social areas and soft furnishings, the new HQ also allows the staff to organise more casual meetings.
Additionally, throughout our process we employed energy and environmental strategies using design management initiatives. Paints, carpets, adhesives and sealants used were selected carefully to minimise emissions typical of these materials to ensure no adverse impact on occupant health. Facilities were also provided to maximise operational recycling and therefore reduce waste going to landfill, and recycled content finishes were used where possible including carpets, blinds and acoustic panels. Our overall concept for this new HQ emphasises the beauty of the environment and heritage of the British Ecology Society all while improving upon organisational capabilities.
