Interior design and fit out case study

Project: Office fit out – Seven House, Longbridge

Client: USN

Size:  6,300 sq ft

Instruction

USN required a larger floorplate than their existing offices at Avon House in Bromsgrove, in order to accommodate the growing workforce of this fast developing company. Avon House had provided a 3,000 sq ft office, but the rapid expansion of the company had fast made the property too small. After our search and acquisition team considered space within the local area, it was decided that it may be necessary to move slightly further afield to secure new offices, for which we project managed the interior design, office fit out, procurement and move management.

KWB identified potential office space at Seven House in Longbridge. This location offered a larger office, doubling the office space stake for the company, with scope for USN to further increase their stake, should they need to in the coming years. The 6,300 sq ft of new offices in Longbridge also offered USN increased local amenities and excellent transport links to the motorway network and to the centre of Birmingham.

KWB’s Malcolm Jones said: “With the current drought of high quality office space in Bromsgrove, Redditch and the surrounding area, we have been quite fortunate in our work with USN. After liaising with them on their requirements for new office space, we successfully identified a rare opportunity to secure new high quality offices, in nearby Longbridge, which can also accommodate their foreseeable expansion.

“This is an ideal time for USN to relocate to Longbridge. They’re likely to benefit in various ways from the investment pouring into the area. Local amenities are set to increase dramatically with St Modwen’s scheduled retail plans and the existing communication links are great. Longbridge is just a few minutes’ drive from junction 4 of the M5 and by car, or by train from Longbridge station, only 25 minutes from Birmingham city centre.”

When Seven House was decided upon we discussed with the client about its aspirations for the office design, the day-to-day requirements and the nature of its office operations. USN was very enthusiastic in its involvement with this element of the project, particularly with its vision for breakout areas, which included the unique idea of the inclusion of a gym facility, for the use of its staff.

Client feedback

Jason Oakley, USN’s Managing Director, said: “We’re really happy with our new offices. We needed more space to accommodate our expansion and we now have an office design and workspace purpose-built for our needs. Longbridge is a great location for us. The transport links, amenities and hotels make it not only ideal for our staff but for visiting clients, our sales team and European team members too.”

“We’re delighted to have the gym installed within the office. Aside from an obvious talking point for visitors, our staff tend to be actively fitness conscious. They subscribe to the ethos of this company. Supplying them with this kind of on-site facility, accompanied by a compatible flexi-time system to allow it to be used, was a logical decision made for the convenience, health and general well-being of our staff. Our new larger kitchen and breakout area have been created for the exact same reasons.”