Buckley Gray Yeoman create a conscious and contemporary workplace in Fitzrovia

When we first took a look (not physically right now, of course) at Buckley Gray Yeoman’s recently completed scheme for Elsley House, we immediately thought that it would make an ideal feature for us. So, while firmly adhering to lockdown rules, we asked the firm’s Jessica Hillam to tell us all about it.

How was your concept conceived and subsequently implemented?

Initially, we acknowledged the building’s strong Art Deco identity, which we wanted to subtly incorporate, but over time it was more important for us as designers to carefully consider and understand how each space would be used to inform our design. For example, the main visitor reception space has lounge seating beneath pendant lighting with brass floor detailing between rooms to distinguish each space, with walls clad in veneered oak fins to create a strong identity, which was visibly different from the main office areas. We also positioned seating and lighting to allow for the placement of large art pieces throughout the space, adding to the luxurious feel.

The lighting design was also key in conveying the client’s goal of creating a quality workspace with variety to encourage healthier working styles. The main office has generous natural lighting, from large angular rooflights above, but elsewhere – in the private work pods, for example – we chose feature mood lighting to give more focus and intimacy. In the main office area, we wanted to ‘lift’ the ceiling to enhance the amount of natural light, so the housing for the artificial lighting is white to blend into the ceiling and not create glare or feel heavy above your head!

We really wanted to incorporate changing attitudes to the design of workspaces by creating a fresh and relaxed environment. Looking at the finished project, I think we have succeeded in creating a space which isn’t explicitly ‘corporate’ but is a considered space with quality furnishings. It represents their attitude as shrewd and sincere investors and their consideration for quality and longevity.

Also, the wellbeing of staff was an overriding concern from the client, who wanted to create a healthy working environment. In response, we provided a variety of spaces that offer a flexible working environment, with sit/standing desking, breakout spaces, alternative working areas such as private study pods and a library lounge room.

We take material and product specification seriously and met frequently with the client to understand what they were looking for and propose furniture and finishes that were high quality whilst appropriate for each space. They asked that we choose sustainable products wherever possible and were committed to buying quality products that would last, which avoids the model of procuring cheap items that will soon need to be replaced.

What is your own personal favourite element of the space?

The quality of the space for the firm’s staff was really important to us and our client, rather than solely the visitor areas. So, for me, the large staff breakout area we provided is a genuinely flexible space, which can be used for hosting clients, staff drinks, informal events and simply for people to rest. There is lounge seating, a dining table, an island bar, and folding doors that open onto a landscaped terrace with planters and outdoor furniture, looking out to nearby All Saints Church – it’s great on a sunny day!