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The Design
MoreySmith’s design cleverly utilises the atrium space, glazing it over and creating a vast, new multi-functional space. A new fire safety strategy was devised so that the atrium could be completely opened up to all floor levels. Balconies overlook the new central area, making it the social heart of the business. Wireless technology has been introduced throughout the complex, offering unprecedented flexibility to the working patterns of the staff. The new space is perfectly tailored for EMI’s needs. It includes a dedicated ‘listening room’ and a striking reception area that signals the company’s presence on the street with 2.6 metre LED video screens.
The Results
The new building has not only provided a substantial saving on annual rent bills by centralising its office space, but the office has also proved a genuinely popular place to work. In the music industry, where long hours and heavy entertaining are de rigeur, the creation of a vibrant office atmosphere has had a positive benefit on productivity. The re-fit is also highly sustainable, attaining a ‘very good’ rating in the BRE Environmental Assessment Method. Additionally, entertaining expenses have plummeted as the staff chose to use the new fifth floor café, run by the Good Eating Company, instead of eating out. Overall, the new offices create a more communicative and productive atmosphere.
Judges’ Comments
Martina King said that the new design ‘sympathetically interweaves the brand into the working environment for all departments’ and adds that ‘MoreySmith has proven its skill at blending company values and the needs of the workers’. Martin Raven, Director Services, Aid and Export Finance, UK Trade & Investment believes the office is ‘impressive – it really achieved the result because of design’.
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