12 Golden Square

“Jo’s aesthetic, eye for detail and flawless execution skills have allowed us to create the perfect office environment, a home from home.”

Florian Schaefer. Senior Managing Director. Northwood Investors.

Following a series of projects in Paris and London for Northwood Investors, JoWhiteDesign was invited to design Northwood’s own new offices in Golden Square. Our brief required strip out and spatial reorganisation to create private and open-plan work zones, formal meeting rooms, collaboration and social spaces over three floors as well as a rooftop terrace and bar.

We worked closely with our client to develop a human-centred scheme which was specific to their professional needs and aspirations. The scheme was designed during lockdown. Our aim was to welcome people back to a new efficient workplace, offering an everyday experience to rival and exceed the comforts and pleasures of working from home.

Our client was keen to encourage a flow of activity between areas, creating a sociable spatial arrangement in which no one would feel alienated. We designed a relaxed kitchen and breakout zone along the lines of a ‘Zen coffeeshop’. We connected this to a collaborative studio, using an oak portal and open screen to frame views and achieve a balance of privacy and openness. We worked the plan to introduce spaces for private calls, informal meetings, lunches and social events as well as formal and quiet workspaces. Using dark feature walls, warm fabrics, oak finishes and glowing light sources, we aimed to create a pleasing, calm and supportive environment.

The scheme brings people together, enabling them to be comfortable, connected and productive. The open terrace with barbecue, the indoor plant scheme and use of wood and other natural materials are key in achieving a work place in which wellbeing and health are central.

There are no expensive finishes in this project and some elements have been up-cycled. The luxury comes from well-considered spaces, attention to detail, tactility, carefully chosen materials and everyday objects which express human values.

Completed 2021