Powering a new generation

We created a new office space for Drax, one of the UK’s largest power stations. They wanted a modern and open space to enable employees to collaborate and socialise with each other, so we transformed an old two-storey apprentice building into a new, contemporary office hub.

Key features

  • Variety of work settings
  • Dominant pieces of furniture
  • Canteen, teapoint and kitchenettes

Project description

We began by stripping the building back to its outer shell and raising the ceilings to immediately create more space. New flooring and carpeting were installed, as well as feature lighting and bespoke furniture, to bring the existing interior up to date. We also gave the existing toilets a much-needed makeover and installed new shower facilities.

Flexible working

Rather than traditional rows of desks, we opted for more dynamic workspaces and kept the design as open and fluid as possible. On the ground floor we installed glazed partitioning and folding doors to section off meeting rooms whilst also maintaining a sense of transparency.

We also built casual working zones with large tables and chairs to accommodate collaborative work. However, not everybody wants to be on display, so we built individual working pods and secluded areas for staff to work more privately when necessary.

Setting the tone

As staff and visitors enter the new hub they are greeted by a fresh and bold reception area complete with a bespoke desk, branded wall, and multimedia screen. Flowing throughout the building are several breakout areas with new kitchenettes, tea points and a canteen. Both floors of the hub are decorated in a colour palette designed with relaxation in mind. Tranquil blue, green and neutral shades take centre stage on dominant pieces of furniture and feature walls; while in the reception area and kitchenettes darker tones add a sharp, sophisticated quality to the space.

Sustainably stylish

As one of the country’s most sustainable power stations and largest renewable electricity generators, Drax needed its new office hub to align with its environmentally conscious ethos. We tried to make the refurbishment as sustainable as possible by sourcing materials and labour locally to reduce the project’s carbon footprint.

In recent years Drax has been generating renewable energy by burning biomass such as forest waste, old branches, sawmill residue and even peanut husks. It was therefore fitting to incorporate a few natural touches into the design – like FSC approved bespoke timber panelling and a biophilic feature wall – as a nod to the company’s innovative methods of energy production.

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