Nestled in London’s creative Shoreditch neighbourhood, SALT HQ is a light-filled and welcoming work and event space. Conceived and completed by London-based THISS Studio for SALT, an independent communications studio, the thoughtfully designed space prioritises material reuse, natural materials, flexibility, and simplicity.
An adaptable and welcoming space
SALT HQ, the studio’s first dedicated workspace, is a reflection of its commitment to imaginative and sustainable design. As a PR and communications studio, SALT has championed THISS Studio’s people-first and material-first approach to architecture. Inspired by their work ethic, SALT commissioned THISS Studio to create a new spatial plan for the office that provides an adaptable, open layout while introducing gentle zoning to support business needs. As well as catering to SALT’s daily work endeavours, it was important that the space could be easily adapted to host talks, events, and photography shoots.
The brief centred on creating a warm and approachable office environment, a welcoming space for SALT’s team, clients, and collaborators.
Material reuse
Salt HQ stands in stark contrast to the excessive nature of many commercial office fit-outs and the carbon-intensive production of mass-produced, low-quality office furniture. SALT’s new premises exemplifies intelligent and sustainable reuse, minimising wastefulness and cost. This includes the reuse of on-site materials, construction waste, second-hand furniture, and natural materials. In addition, THISS Studio was tasked with designing key pieces of furniture for the office. As a result, SALT HQ’s furniture is entirely second-hand or made from reclaimed materials.
Kitchen carcasses from the original double-run layout were retained and reused. To create additional storage, half of these carcasses were relocated to the office’s rear wall — just two additional cabinets were required. The original cupboard doors were diverted from landfill by being listed on Gumtree. They were replaced by Valchromat panels — an engineered wood fibreboard — and these panels were treated with a sustainable hard‑wax oil. Thin sheets of steel were added to the kitchen, elevating the interior and gently reflecting light.
The studio’s layout is defined by two large tables, a shared work desk and a communal table, finished with cork and timber trim. Designed by THISS Studio, the tables were built from three former steel catering tables. The legs were cut to size and placed on casters for ease of movement. Made from cork and white American oak trim, the worktops sit on top of the steel base like a lid. These elements are remnants of previous renovation projects.
A creative use of space
SALT HQ is located in a gated courtyard complex in Shoreditch, where light-filled studio spaces accommodate a range of creative and design-led businesses. SALT’s studio space boasts high ceilings, characterful steel beams and columns, and ample natural light from two elevations of industrial windows. To make best use of the abundant daylight and maintain a flexible, open layout, there is no fixed meeting room. Instead, THISS Studio chose the simplicity of a large patchwork linen curtain, made by Georgia Bosson Studio, establishing a soft threshold that defines key office areas. The half-wave curtain, made from end-of-roll linen sourced from an Irish mill, is attached to a central steel beam with C-clamps for easy removal. The grid pattern of textile patches playfully mimics the geometry of the studio’s industrial windows and brick columns. Stainless steel butcher’s shelves, salvaged and repurposed as bookcases, act as subtle dividers that separate the bathroom.
The steel columns and beams, once dull black, have been revitalised and coated in a rust-red sustainable paint, adding warmth and depth to the space. The floors were carefully sanded back and sealed with a natural, matt varnish, enhancing the timber’s original character.
A unique authenticity
SALT’s strict approach to material reuse posed a key challenge: maintaining an open mind and adapting the design to suit the available materials. The studio space is shaped by the various items that could be sourced at the time. As a result, SALT HQ enjoys a unique authenticity that would not have been achieved using entirely new materials. The new office space is a testament to THISS Studio’s expertise in adaptive reuse and SALT’s commitment to thoughtful material sourcing and high-quality design.
Lessons learned
Reflecting on lessons learned from the project, Tamsin Hanke, Director at THISS Studio, says: “SALT HQ demonstrates that low-carbon office fit-outs are absolutely achievable, but require a more agile and responsive design process. The sourcing of reclaimed and second-hand materials introduces a level of unpredictability, therefore the design must adapt to what is available, rather than relying on standardised or off-the-shelf products. Success depends on strong communication and trust between the design team, client, and contractor. Flexibility is essential, because plans may change if certain materials cannot be sourced. The process demands more time for sourcing and is reliant on contractors or fabricators who are open to working in a less linear, more collaborative fashion.”
