A future-proofed ecosystem to accelerate innovation
This fintech payments platform challenged the London team of M Moser to design a future-proofed workplace design where staff, customers and partners could collaborate to rapidly pioneer new technologies. Its global headquarters serves as a progressive ecosystem to accelerate the innovation process.
A melting pot of culture and fusing of creative minds, London’s Silicon Roundabout provides the best location for their new workplace, with access to the local technology talent pool and transport links for the travelling partners worldwide.
Key highlights of the workplace
- A progressive workplace ecosystem providing intersecting touch-points for stakeholders to collaborate and pioneer new technologies.
- The global HQ enables continuous change and adaptation; activating a culture of experimentation and intelligent risk-taking.
- A future-proofed workspace designed for flexibility, and allowing for headcount and company growth.
A platform for innovation
Enabling this fintech client to disrupt a competitive market, the workplace supports the launch of new products and services. The multi-purpose amphitheatre, UX lounge, and Research Room create a community-driven incubator to pioneer new technologies.
“70% of the office space is designed to foster collaboration within the group and with our larger ecosystem”, shared the Group Chief Technology Officer.
Stakeholders strategise, experiment and intelligently risk-take within the innovation centre. The landscape dilates through the remodelling of comfortable work settings that support the needs of a changing workforce. Employees and teams adapt areas, without restriction, to achieve their goals.
Understanding user behaviour
Developing an understanding of the intended users of this new workplace was one of the biggest considerations. The project team needed to examine the roles, personalities and behaviours of employees from initial occupancy.
The approach to “behaviour-based design” has enabled settings such as a curved digital wall that guides staff through the office and guests into the showcase space, The Counter. This impactful user experience combines branding and wayfinding, whilst providing privacy to the business lounge.
Jeni Durksen, Senior Associate - Workplace Design, M Moser Associates, shares: “A series of stakeholder journeys guided the interior design of this workplace. These touchpoints provide staff, customers, and partners organic intersections to engage and collaborate.”
Freedom of choice
A variety of work settings provides freedom of choice for users of the office space. A crucial consideration for top talent in the workplace. Creating work environments that support every individual to be as effective as possible can have a dramatic impact on their overall output.
Private and focused work settings balance open areas of the office, to create options for the individual to choose how they want to work.
“Choice enables the user to create a unique experience - this is especially essential for Gen Z who value experience over ownership”, shares Mariana Anelli, Associate - Workplace Design, M Moser Associates.
Future-proofing an evolving environment
Future versatility drove base-build enhancements to involve high-level components into the ceiling. Removing elements such as floor boxes has enabled the creation of an adaptable workshop space clear of obstacles.
To respond to cycles of flexibility, a combination of mobile-tiered seating, whiteboards on tracks and lightweight stackable chairs activate the amphitheatre to accommodate up to 120 people. The space supports TED-talk style presentations, training sessions, and workshops. TV/AV equipment offers the ability to stream this fintech client’s town-hall meetings globally.
Acoustic curtains that zone the amphitheatre feature a transparent honeycomb pattern. The holes in the net-like fabric trap sound to block it from entering or leaving. Booth seating situated behind the curtains is a perfect space for private calls or discussions.
This fintech office design and global headquarters at London’s Silicon Roundabout simplifies the innovation process by creating a pioneering workplace environment for staff. M Moser has created a future-proofed ecosystem that accelerates innovation by enhancing ways of working for global stakeholders.
