Buro Happold

Brief

Following a competitive tender process, Lancer Scott was commissioned for the interior design, space plan and development, and fit out works for international professional services consultancy firm Buro Happold’s new workspace in central Bath.

Buro Happold had spent over thirty years at their old office block in Camden Mill. A pivotal step in our client’s growth journey, this new location at Pinesgate East would act as a temporary solution for its 600+ staff whilst their new office, just across the road at Pinesgate West, is undergoing an extensive refurbishment and building transformation.

Our team offered a turnkey solution from start to finish, and expertly guided the client through the relocation, with logistical support, move management, storage, set up and aftercare.

Solution

Although a temporary home, there were big plans for the fit out at Pinesgate East. Our team needed to create a connected and collaborative workspace that was excellent value for money – one that was sustainable, and with little to no waste.

The building had recently been fitted out to CAT A standard and was in a good state of repair for our work to begin. Following design workshops and development of the space plan, we helped steer decisions on functionality, flow, and aesthetic, and it became clear the client wanted an environment where teams would feel at home – a place that motivated people to produce their best work.

It was the client’s intention to provide all-new equipment for the move into Pinesgate West and so this project needed to reuse as much of the current office furniture, equipment and facilities as possible to conserve budget and prevent unnecessary waste.

During the construction phase and throughout the relocation, Lancer Scott successfully managed 100% avoidance of landfill. We worked with our client to deliver unwanted furniture pieces to local schools, and therefore extending product lifecycle.

Throughout the resource-conscious design development, we used our relationships with trusted manufacturers and suppliers to manage a furniture trial scheme for spare carpet tiles, plus furniture pieces and equipment with the intention to support feedback workshops over the course of the occupation to fine tune the specification of collaborative and task furniture.

Spanning two floors, the large open space now features newly built meeting rooms, well equipped catering kitchen, grab-and-go cafe, tea points, focus booths, and plenty of breakout space cleverly zoned by planters, storage units and soft sectional furniture to avoid losing the feel of the open plan.

With wellbeing of staff in mind, a multipurpose wellness space has been built with first aid area, alongside a faith room.

We managed technology integration and AV installation, modified heating and ventilation systems, and reconfigured lighting and fire alarm systems to suit the impressive 18-seater conference room, newly built meeting rooms and collaboration zones.

During the programme of works, the building had a tenant occupying 50% of the ground floor, and who remained in-situ throughout. We managed all construction noise levels and supplier deliveries to ensure a smooth build process with zero complaints.

At an incredible £19 per sq ft, this fit out project demonstrates how you can achieve a temporary but mighty office without blowing budget. With the client’s clear strategy for reuse, recycle and responsibility, combined with the collaboration of the whole project and delivery team to bring this vision to life, we are delighted with the results.

We wish our fantastic client Buro Happold all the best with their next big move.