Building sustainable practices with a leading construction firm

The challenge: 

Wates, one of the leading privately-owned construction companies in the UK, wanted a re-design of their site offices. They came to us not just for our excellent design skills, but also because of our commitment to sustainability and the circular economy.   

In the past Wates’ site offices used modular style wooden furniture, and with site offices only occupied for 2-3 years depending on build time, they wanted a more innovative solution. We helped them set the footprint to move all site offices towards a more collaborative and creative workspace and make sure all furniture could be re-used on future projects, saving cost and reducing environmental impact.  

Our solution: 

Working closely with the surveying team, we developed the layout, design and look of the space, incorporating areas for collaboration, high and low seating areas, and upgraded the kitchen area to be more on trend and usable. Instead of rows of desks, different styles and shapes keep the space lively, with storage and collaborative areas breaking up and defining the areas.  

Seating was chosen in the Wates brand colours – along with desk screens, pulling the space together. Alternative pieces were sourced to achieve the look Wates wanted but to keep costs in line, meaning the project was delivered on time and on budget.  

The outcome: 

The client was delighted with the result, so much so that after working on 11 & 12 Wellington Place we have worked with the Wates Group on a further 3 projects, including the site offices for the £40m housing scheme in Middleton, Leeds. We are honoured to be part of this project which is vital to our local community. Find out more here.  

Madelain McHale, Site Surveyor for the WP project commented that “the whole process of working with Workspace has been really simple and straightforward. From the initial concept and planning stage through to getting questions answered, and on to final installation, where the team were professional and efficient.” 

Read more about Wellington Place on the Wates website here.