Project: Temple Point

Client: Turner & Townsend

Location: Bristol, UK

Size: 6800 sq ft

Value: £246,000

WyldeIA were appointed by Turner & Townsend to develop a high-quality workspace that would accommodate several divisions of their growing business. The brief was to provide a combination of client facing spaces, collaboration areas, flexible working environments and private workspaces. The project was a single stage design and build project with a 9-week turnaround on site.

Since 2011, Turner & Townsend has expanded from a workforce of around 40 to over 350 employees. The new office fit out design needed to accommodate the increase in staff whilst making use of modern technology and encourage new ways of working.

The workplace was designed around what the employees wanted – staff consultation was a key part in the design and delivery of the project. Through a series of design workshops WyldeIA worked with Turner & Townsend to develop a concept that was practical and innovative, whilst utilising their brand identity to create a ‘wow factor’ with the design.

Communication between teams needed to be improved so we introduced a flexible client suite and a large breakout area. In addition, we included different work settings such as collaborative workspaces, individual work stations and social areas which can be used for informal meetings or overspill desk spaces. We encouraged the use of large areas of acoustic wall covering and ceiling rafts to help reduce noise travel and improve acoustic comfort predominantly in the meeting and collaboration areas.

IT connectivity was upgraded as part of the project alongside introducing state-of-the-art technology such as room booking systems and in-built Skype capability to encourage virtual meetings. Combined with practical elements such as the provision of ample areas of write-on walls for brainstorming and collaboration.

It was important that the space created a strong and long-lasting impression, one that Turner & Townsend could be proud of that would attract new employees and clients. We designed a reception area that had a strong visual presence from outside and when entering the space. The reception design encompassed a feature backwall with corporate signage, brand colours and Biophilic design elements. It was also important to create a reception area that linked both the client meeting suite and the open plan office area to ensure a feeling of inclusion for the front-of-house team based away from the main working area.

There was a strong desire to maximise use of natural light and visual connectively to the surrounding cityscape. Floor-to-ceiling curtain walling was part of the original attraction of selecting this space, by locating the breakout and meeting rooms on these external elevations, clients and staff both benefit from the prime location and outstanding views across Bristol.

The office’s location itself was chosen due to its proximity to Bristol Temple Meads Station to encourage the use of public transport and reduce the organisation’s carbon footprint.

Staff satisfaction at the new office has improved to a much higher level with regular positive feedback from staff and visitors. Efficiency, happiness and wellbeing have improved, and employee engagement is at an all time high.