Confidential Tech Client
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Location: London
A confidential tech client wanted to transform their existing headquarters into a workplace that reflected their evolving culture, supported new ways of working, and honoured the character of their historic building. The headquarters, located in a landmark property dating back to the 1980s, had served the business well but no longer aligned with their needs as a modern, hybrid organisation.
Woodalls was commissioned to design and deliver a full refurbishment that reimagined the space while preserving its architectural heritage. The transformation balanced respect for the building’s original charm with the introduction of contemporary design elements and flexible layouts that could adapt to the client’s growing workforce.
The existing office had become dated and siloed, limiting collaboration and creativity. Woodalls set out to create an environment that encouraged strong interaction, innovation, and flexibility. The refurbished headquarters featured a variety of work settings open-plan spaces, private meeting rooms, breakout zones, and flexible workstations giving employees autonomy to choose where and how they worked. Dedicated collaboration zones with movable partitions and advanced meeting technology supported both planned and spontaneous teamwork.
Sustainability was a central focus throughout the project, reflecting the client’s core values. The refurbishment was planned to minimise environmental impact through the reuse of existing furniture and infrastructure, the selection of sustainably sourced materials, and the integration of energy-efficient systems. Natural lighting and biophilic design features enhanced employee well-being and reinforced the company’s commitment to sustainability.
Communal areas, including a café, lounges, and event spaces, were designed to nurture a sense of community. These areas provided opportunities for informal interactions as well as larger gatherings, helping to strengthen social connection and company culture.
A key challenge lay in completing the refurbishment while maintaining business continuity. Woodalls developed a phased construction plan that allowed parts of the building to remain operational while other sections were upgraded. This careful planning minimised disruption and enabled the client to continue their operations smoothly throughout the project.
Given the building’s heritage status, the design team worked meticulously to maintain its architectural integrity while integrating modern technologies. Sleek hardware, concealed cabling, and intuitive digital systems were introduced in a way that complemented the historic features rather than competing with them.
The new headquarters is a vibrant, flexible, and sustainable workplace. Early feedback from employees is overwhelmingly positive with the finished space providing a model for the client’s future of work and a benchmark for how thoughtful design can blend innovation, heritage, and well-being in the modern office.
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Services
Space Planning
Workplace Consultancy
Interior Design
Project Management
Architecture
