Embracing hybrid working

2 Stockport Exchange is the latest commercial offering in the heart of Stockport town centre. This state-of-the-art office building is spearheading transformation in the neighbourhood, attracting both investment and new tenants to the exciting £145m Stockport Exchange regeneration.

Project partners

  • 5 Plus Architects Ltd
  • JLL
  • Hilson Moran Partnership Ltd

Project description

A lease break and a desire to shake things up gave BASF the perfect opportunity to relocate to this premium address, but the global chemical company wanted a fit out to match.

Our fit out was part of BASF’s ongoing organisational transformation project, which aims to deliver a better workplace experience through digitalisation and flexibility. After 25 years in its old office, this open and collaborative workspace at 2 Stockport Exchange represents a new, modern chapter for the firm.

Engaging environment

Our brief was to provide a welcoming, homely and engaging environment to support agile and collaborative working for over 200 employees. We delivered a 5-month Cat B fit out that included the design and installation of a new feature staircase.

The central staircase is a key part in helping BASF change working behaviours. Our bespoke-built, steel staircase will help facilitate flexibility and interactions. Ease of movement around the office and between agile zones is crucial to encouraging employees to work in less traditional, sedentary ways.

Employee-focused agile spaces

5Plus designed an employee-focused range of facilities across the two floors of this workspace, giving staff the chance to move about and to increase serendipitous interactions. We built tea points and a kitchen, a library, games room and an event space which opens onto a large, airy terrace - perfect for lunches in the sunshine.

These informal areas are supported by other zones for both individual and team-based working. All spaces incorporate acoustic features to lessen noise in busy areas, trendy furniture and high-quality fixtures and finishes.

High performing workplace

Staying ahead of the curve with a modern, agile workplace that supports collaboration will establish this high-performing organisation in an increasingly competitive market. When the chemistry’s right, there’s no stopping BASF.

Read more