8 Wealth Management

It was important that as an overall team, we got to grips with exactly what our client wanted to achieve, both in terms of functionality and design, and ensuring that this translated accurately from paper to reality. There was a significant amount of work required to remedy dilapidations before we could even begin, together with a few obstacles and lengthy negotiations. We had to dispose of commercial safes left within the property, seek planning permission for external signage and navigate various leaks throughout the building’s first floor.

The client wanted the ground-floor showroom to capture the attention of passers-by and draw them into the space. We wanted to create a central ‘wow factor’ that was visible to both passing footfall and traffic. We did this by creating a timber light feature and circular reception space. This was a bespoke design and was like nothing else we had created before. This space became central to the ground floor, which included an open plan kitchen and coffee bar, various sized cellular offices, an impressive board room and a modern w/c with disabled access.

A functional reception desk was a critical part of the brief, based on previous experiences and as such, we carefully designed something that would give space, comfort and that same ‘wow’ factor. We installed internal glass partitioning and doors to give the space a modern look and feel, as well as segmenting areas. The client also wanted the ability to use the space for presentations and receptions, so there needed to be no visual obstacles or fixed furnishings.

The first floor features an open-plan working space with private offices, a meeting room and w/c. In addition, we added a large kitchen/break-out area where employees can be comfortable when spending time away from their desks. We installed a brand-new air conditioning and ventilation system, to provide a controllable climate across both floors and to meet building control requirements.

Considering footfall, comfort and practicality, we laid out a variety of different floor finishes to delineate zones within the space. Decoration was closely aligned to the “8” branding. Wall finishes were neutral, with flashes of colour created by furniture and soft finishes. We also wanted to bring some of the outside, inside. This was achieved by installing an impressive 6ft moss wall centred around a 75inch TV. Naturewall slatted panelling was used throughout, to provide acoustic control and an additional finish and feature to various pillars, walls and surrounding to internal signage.

The new space was unveiled with a huge launch party, with many key stakeholders and contributors in attendance. We are proud to finally showcase this project and celebrate the culmination of talents and efforts.