BW: Workplace Experts has completed the major Cat B fit out of Virgin Media O2’s London headquarters in Paddington – the new home for its London-based teams and its first major office space investment since the two brands merged in June 2021. The ambitious 81,750 sq. ft office spans six floors, plus additional ground floor space, and includes large areas for team collaboration, hosting visitors and a variety of private and open work areas. Standout features include a prestigious ground floor client experience area, and a space on the ninth floor focused entirely on collaboration, with a conference suite, boardroom, multi-functional dining and social space, and a 130-capacity event studio. Every floor further includes areas designed to facilitate naturally occurring conversations. These ‘accidental meeting points’ are opposite the lift lobby of each floor and serve to bring employees closer together into one team – a key goal for the new office and cornerstone of the merger. BW: Workplace Experts delivered each floor to reflect the wide range of services offered by Virgin Media O2 and what its customers use its connectivity for, from gaming and music-themed floors, through to sports, streaming and more. This resulted in over 350 individual finishes and 75 light fitting types, 22 being feature lighting, to match the individual look and feel of each floor. All existing services were then carefully managed by the team to achieve both aesthetics and functionality. This included overcoming challenges presented by the highly congested ceiling when applying acoustic spray to the soffit. This was achieved through excellent RCP site coordination to meticulously arrange the exposed services and attain the impressive clear ceiling heights. Diversity and inclusion was also a key consideration from the start, and the site features gender-neutral toilets, study and retreat spaces for neurodivergent colleagues, and multi-faith rooms with Wudu facilities. Colour schemes were also reviewed to ensure tonal contrast and improve the experience for any employee who is partially sighted, while sufficient space has been provided in meeting rooms and other spaces to ensure wheelchair access. Committed to supporting Virgin Media O2’s ESG strategy ‘the Better Connections Plan’, BW: Workplace Experts met criteria for acoustics, material selection, air quality and waste management, and the building is on track to achieve the highest levels of sustainable certifications in the UK; BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum. The team also added social value by creating a local partnership with the nearby Edward Wilson Primary School, investing 98 volunteering hours as well as local materials, including those repurposed from the Virgin Media O2 project, to paint the playground walls, deliver new bug houses to encourage biodiversity, and reimagine the dated library for pupils to enjoy. The library refurbishment includes a new stage that can also be used for drama performances, whiteboards, beanbag seating and new book shelving. Paul Kavanagh, Operations Director at BW: Workplace Experts, comments: “Our work has completely transformed Virgin Media O2’s new London office headquartersin Paddington. Through extensive attention to detail and dedicated workshops with the client, we delivered numerous individual finishes to help achieve the unique look and feel of each floor. The result is a workspace that reflects the collaboration of the Virgin Media O2 teams, bringing their vision to life through every individual fit out detail. We are blown away by the seamless end result and we are also proud to have worked closely towards achieving sustainability targets and leave a positive impact on the local community by fostering a relationship with the Edward Wilson Primary School in Paddington, which the Virgin Media O2 office team can continue to build on.” Rodney Hogg, Property Director at Virgin Media O2, said: “Moving our London HQ to Paddington is an important milestone for us, providing a vibrant, state-of-the-art office space for our people to get together in person and collaborate, while also supporting our flexible working culture. “BW: Workplace Experts and Gensler have more than met our expectations in the design and delivery of this bespoke site, with floors that reflect the entertainment services we provide to millions of customers, and supporting our Better Connections Plan through being on track to achieve the highest possible levels of certifications for sustainability.” Harry Noble, Director, CBRE Occupier Project Management, said: “We are proud to have played a pivotal role in the acquisition and establishment of Virgin Media 02’s new London headquarters, from transaction management and brokerage through to project management. As strategic partners from the outset, our service lines have ensured a seamless process from property search through to successful project delivery.” The project was completed by BW:Workplace Experts alongside project partners CBRE, Gensler, MIX and Ramboll UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Award Winning Fit Out Specialist Selects NFU Mutual’s Manchester Office Scheme For New Manchester HQ Award winning fit out specialist, Overbury, has selected NFU Mutual’s flagship Chancery Place office building in the central business district, as its new Manchester HQ. Overbury is one of the UK’s leading fit out specialists, operating nationally on office, higher education and science facilities projects. The move will see them relocate from their existing premises at The Zenith Building, to 6,843 sq ft on the 13th floor of Chancery Place, signing a new 10-year lease. NFU Mutual has invested heavily into Chancery Place to create an enhanced occupier experience including a newly refurbished reception and common areas in addition to a communal roof top terrace. Plans are also in place to deliver significantly improved end-of-journey facilities in the basement area in the coming months. Alex Pocock, Asset Manager at NFU Mutual, said: “We are thrilled that Overbury has chosen Chancery Place as its new Manchester base. Securing an occupier of this calibre is a testament to the quality of the recent refurbishment works, and we are actively making further improvements to the building to enhance the existing amenity provision.” Mark Garner, Office Agent at CBRE said: “We are delighted to welcome Overbury to Chancery Place, who will benefit from one of the best, unrestricted views of Manchester City Centre from their floor. We’re very much looking forward to seeing what they do with the space.” David Vaal, Managing Director from Overbury commented “Having been at our existing offices for the last 18 years, this move comes at a pivotal moment in Overbury’s growth in the region, and as Managing Director for the business I’m proud to play a part in it. Our collaborative approach has been the foundation in securing repeat business, while also continuing to attract new clients through the high-quality work we deliver. “The new office environment we’re creating will inspire and motivate our team, providing a space that supports creativity and enables them to give exceptional service to our clients.  Over the last 20 years, we’ve earned the reputation as the leading fit out specialist in the region, and our talented team will continue to uphold that status; always putting our clients first and collaborating with our consultant partners to build long lasting relationships.” CBRE, OBI and Colliers act as leasing agents for NFU Mutual on Chancery Place and Knight Frank acted for Overbury. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Creating an inspiring and functional office environment is crucial for boosting employee morale, productivity, and collaboration. As workplace dynamics continue to evolve, modern office design has become more important than ever. At Zentia, we understand the impact that innovative design can have on an office space. Here are our top 10 office design ideas, showcasing how you can elevate your workspace using our ceiling tiles, baffles, canopies, and other products. 1. Embrace Open Spaces Open-plan offices encourage collaboration and communication among teams. Using Zentia’s acoustic baffles, canopies, and tiles can help manage noise levels while maintaining an airy feel. Check out our case study on Velux UK HQ to see how our ceiling tiles can create a harmonious balance in an open workspace. 2. Incorporate Biophilic Design Integrating natural elements into your office design can improve employee wellbeing. In addition to using natural materials, such as ceiling tiles that mimic natural textures, consider utilising colour palettes inspired by nature, such as greens, browns, or blues, to promote a calming and relaxing atmosphere. In fact, muted browns and earthy colours are very popular at the moment. They perfectly complement the inclusion of plants in the space, so think about incorporating foliage into the design to further improve indoor air quality. 3. Utilise Multi-Functional Spaces Design your office to accommodate various activities, such as meetings, collaboration, and relaxation. Use modular canopies to create flexible zones within open areas to encourage creativity and interaction among staff. Conversely, utilising flexible canopies such as these also enables the creation of more secluded areas that promote focus and concentration. 4. Focus on Acoustics Noise can significantly impact productivity. Investing in sound-absorbing ceiling tiles and baffles can create a quieter work environment. In fact, the reduced noise pollution will not only aid communication, collaboration, productivity, and inclusivity, it will also help to reduce stress. With workforces much more diverse than in previous decades, the needs of individuals with neurodiverse conditions also need to be recognised. Often, they will have heightened senses, meaning noise will disturb them more severely than others, so the utilisation of sound-absorbing products will help to minimise distractions and improve comfort. Our project for Howdens Joinery showcases how effective acoustic solutions can enhance employee concentration and comfort. 5. Personalise Workspaces Encouraging employees to personalise their work areas can boost engagement and satisfaction. Use versatile partition systems to create semi-private spaces where individuals can express their style while maintaining a cohesive design. Aside from boosting productivity, giving staff personalised spaces will enhance their privacy and positively boost their emotional and cognitive wellbeing. In fact, people primarily want to work in, and are more engaged with, spaces that they feel embody who they are, not only individually but also as part of their company. 6. Incorporate Technology Seamlessly Integrating technology into office design is essential for modern workplaces. Zentia’s smart ceiling solutions can house lighting and audio-visual equipment, ensuring a clean, uncluttered look. Whilst it’s not an office, our project at the F1 Racing Simulator in Glasgow offers a unique and exciting insight into how to creatively incorporate lighting into ceiling designs. 7. Choose the Right Colours Colour psychology plays a significant role in workplace mood and productivity. Incorporate a palette that reflects your brand and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Zentia’s custom ceiling tiles can be designed in various colours, allowing you to curate the perfect look for your office. For HTC Architects, we were able to provide Sonify ceiling baffles in their brand colours, light grey, dark grey and orange, to champion their company in a stylish and effective way. 8. Design for Flexibility With the rise of remote work, flexible office spaces are more important than ever. Often, they will need to adapt to changing needs, whether that’s different teams working in the office on alternate days or different rooms being required depending on which members of staff are in the building at any one time. Modular systems, such as office pods, can be quickly reconfigured or moved to suit the ever-changing needs of the business. 9. Maximising Natural Light Maximising natural light can improve employee well-being and reduce energy costs. Use transparent or translucent ceiling solutions to allow light to filter through, creating a bright and inviting environment. For more great ideas on how to brighten any office space, check out Zentia’s useful guide on maximising daylight in buildings. 10. Create Breakout Areas Designated breakout areas encourage relaxation and informal meetings. Use ceilings, walls and creative partitions to create comfortable breakout zones that enhance collaboration and creativity. Modern office design is about more than aesthetics; it’s about creating environments that foster productivity, collaboration, and well-being. By incorporating these top ten design ideas and utilising Zentia’s innovative products, you can transform your office into a vibrant and efficient workspace. View more of our projects in our project gallery. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Willmott Dixon Interiors has furthered its reputation for the delivery of public sector refurbishment projects, with the redesign of an award-winning building in north west London. The leading fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor has transformed 22,600 sq ft of Brent Civic Centre, Wembley Park, on behalf of Brent Council. The project has delivered improvements to Wembley Library and created a new resident hub, with comfortable and accessible public spaces that better serve the needs of local people.   Several public services have been integrated into a more spacious and versatile library building, including a larger, purpose-built children’s library, new study areas, quiet zones, and an expanded library collection. A new ground floor hub features a dedicated customer service area, complete with a digital zone and private rooms for confidential conversations. An area has also been fitted out for weddings and other events, which has been decorated to a high standard to improve the experience of guests. Other enhancements include a new accessible main entrance on Exhibition Way and an internal layout that considers the needs of wheelchair users, pushchairs and people with complex needs. Willmott Dixon Interiors has installed new M&E, plumbing and heating systems within the building, as well as new lighting, acoustics and enhanced temperature controls. In parallel with its delivery of the refurbishment, Willmott Dixon Interiors partnered with West London Careers Hub to deliver more than £1.5 million in social return on investment. Activities included support for local schools and colleges through careers events, work experience and industry insights. Neil Adams, senior operations manager at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “Civic spaces are the heartbeat of our communities and it’s vital that they meet the evolving needs of local people. “Brent Council recognised the opportunity it had to adapt an award-winning building into an exciting space that better serves all of its residents. We’re proud to hand over a modern community library and resident hub that provides improved public access and facilities for all.” Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, cabinet member for resident support and culture, said: “Our award-winning Civic Centre has served residents and the council well over the past decade but it’s essential for us to adapt and keep pace with the evolving needs of our community. “This exciting new space will enable us to better serve our residents, especially those with the most complex needs. With a brand-new customer service area and an upgraded library, we’ve created a more accessible, comfortable and confidential environment with enhanced facilities for everyone to enjoy.” Willmott Dixon Interiors was awarded the contract to refurbish Brent Civic Centre via the Procurement Hub framework. Andy Peck, senior client relationship manager, Procurement Hub: “This project exemplifies the benefits of working with Willmott Dixon Interiors through the MPF2 framework. Their flexibility allows them to deliver value where it’s most needed.” The new look Wembley Library and resident hub will be officially launched at a grand opening event on 7 December 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

OP has been appointed to deliver a revolutionary workplace transformation for MMD, a global leader in material processing solutions for the mining, quarrying and recycling industries. The project will create a vibrant two-storey extension to MMD’s central office building in Derbyshire. It is designed to foster collaboration, celebrate the company’s rich mining heritage, and embrace sustainable technologies. At the heart of the development is a ground-floor dining facility featuring a commercial-grade kitchen and servery, complemented by modern shower facilities and a dedicated gym area. The first floor will house a flexible games and training space, complete with a boardroom buffet room and an expansive roof terrace. The office design seamlessly blends historical elements with contemporary functionality, incorporating repurposed materials including recut and repolished granite table tops from the existing building. Heritage features such as traditional panelling and brass lighting pay homage to MMD’s 1970s coal mining origins while creating a modern interpretation of a classic British social atmosphere. The interior scheme features durable, wipeable surfaces throughout to accommodate both office and warehouse staff, creating an inclusive environment that encourages interaction between all departments. The new extension provides dedicated spaces for movement and collaboration, encouraging employees to step away from their desks and engage with colleagues in a more social setting. Gary Tailby, Joint Managing Director of OP, said: “We’re delighted to partner with MMD on this transformative project that perfectly balances heritage with innovation. The design not only creates essential amenity spaces but facilitates a cultural shift towards more collaborative ways of working. By incorporating sustainable technologies and celebrating MMD’s industrial heritage, we’re creating a workplace that will serve their team well into the future.” Graham Griffiths at MMD said: “This development represents a significant step in MMD’s evolution, creating spaces where our teams can come together, collaborate and relax. OP’s understanding of our heritage and vision for the future has resulted in a design that will transform how we work and interact as a company.” The fast-track project is scheduled for completion in December 2024, and the new dining facility will host the company’s Christmas celebrations. For more information, please visit https://officeprinciples.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals