Gresham, a technology and software company needed an office as a result of accelerating expansion and to provide their staff with an office that can bring everyone together. The tech company’s previous office in Latteridge, based on a farm, was bursting at the seams. Departments were separated by individual barns which did not aid collaboration or cohesion. The Brew House in Bristol, a grade II listed industrial building in the heart of the city was chosen to be their new home. Interaction created an office space to attract talent, support retention, increase bonds and ultimately showcase the company.
Designed by Interaction
With a focus on the staff, Interaction designed a space that would flow throughout the day. Analysing how different parts of the office are utilised at different stages in the working day, the office design was adapted to reflect this flow. It was essential that Interaction created a great place to work, which meant a place where everyone could get together for multiple purposes, such as; meetings, coffee breaks, private space to work and socialising after work.
The energetic and vibrant colours highlight the fun and fast-paced environment that Gresham represent. The largely open plan office encourages employees to collaborate and work together, not just within but across different departments. There is also more focused work areas adjacent to the open plan space in order for people to have the choice and flexibility to be able to concentrate.
Interaction decided upon a contemporary office design to suit the modern and innovate company, but the Brew House is an old building with a lot of stunning original features that had to be accentuated. The beautiful original windows and brickwork wrap around the core of the workplace. The high ceilings and curved brickwork are immediately striking and you are reminded of the heritage of the building.
A highlight of the project is the striking tea point, not only because of the buoyant colours, but also for the impressive wooden feature that flows from the floor up the wall and across the top of the tea point. Reinforcing the theme of an office design with a purposeful flow, this feature emphases the fact that the tea point is a hub to gather and socialise. In keeping with a quirky and modern office design the eclectic mix of colours and furniture adds to the uniqueness of the space. This also represents the uniqueness of Gresham's employees and showing that despite their differences, coming together just works.
The result, after just 6 weeks on site - is a playful energetic space that was delivered snag free. The client was delighted and realised early on the huge potential and impact the new workplace could have on the business. Since moving into the office Gresham has filled all its vacant positions in Bristol in just a few months; something they have been trying for 2 years!
