In recent years, billions of pounds have been invested in London’s King’s Cross and it’s become a destination for both tech giants and start-ups, attractingtalent from across the world.
So, when it came to North Hillextendingits portfolio of design-led offices in the areafor the next generation of businessthey partnered with leading workplace design and build experts, Peldon Roseto bring the vision to life. The teams worked together to transform, 14,000 sqftThirty Lighterman in King’s Cross into a dynamic ready-to-work space that will allow tech businesses the opportunity to integrate themselves into this new, emerging community at the heart of the city.
A space primed for up-and-coming tech-led businesses
Situatedjust around the corner from King’s Cross Stationand the new Google campus, Thirty Lighterman is a prime office location. The space is smart, aesthetically pleasing, and offers a dynamic working environment. Peldon Rose designed the spacewith flexibility in mind using a‘plug and play’ concept to incorporate a variety of work areas to suit all working styles.
The team redesigned the ground floor common area,functional breakout facilities, façade entry and common stairway to incorporate the urban aesthetics of the surrounding area. The furniture and décor were carefully selected to complement this modern, fresh theme and were installed to be easily moved throughout the space.
Creative thinking to overcome challenges
The redesign of the entry façade to createthe perfect tenant journey presented a unique challenge. Peldon Rose endeavoured to create an entrance with more of a street presence, which didn’tprotrude or extend, and fits in with the local surroundings. NorthHill also wanted to ensure that thefloorspacewas maximised for potential tenants to occupy. The Peldon Rose team worked with the clientto innovatively redesign the space to maximise the square footage by creating welcoming and open floor plates.
To stay true to the building’s industrial heritage, the team utilised the original concrete floors on the first and second floors. By grinding and refinishing the floor plate, the teamwas able to add character to the space and provide a sense of authenticity.
Kevin Wither, head of landlord atPeldon Rose, explained: “Opening the floor plates from the lift exit brought challenges in the structure and makeup of the building. However, upon seeing the completion it was the right decision for the building and we’re really pleased with the results.
“Any tenant taking space in this fabulous building has the joy of an inviting and impactful, open plan floor creating a great first impression and well thought out use of space. Each floor offers workstations, meeting spaces, soft seating, on floor amenities including tea points, WCs and floor-by-floor data connectivity that will appeal to many different businesses.”
Putting wellbeing at the centre of design
To enhance wellbeing in the workplace, the teams incorporated quiet zones into the space. These areas were cordoned off with curtains to allow employees to have a moment of respite, concentration or privacy.
Understanding the importance of incorporating exercise into employees’ working day, from cyclinginto theoffice to attending an exercise class, the team included a shower room in the design. To give occupants the opportunity to switch off and relax, the room was designed asan inner-city oasis, incorporating the aesthetics of an exotic retreat.
Maximising natural light within a space is also key to supporting wellbeing. Peldon Rose utilised the windows and curtain walling toincrease natural light exposure. The team also incorporated a fresh and light aesthetic into the finishes and features to further promote thisthroughout the space.
Peldon Rose worked closely with specialist interior landscape designers, Planteria to put biophilia at the centre of the design.Greenery and planter boxes were strategically positioned to soften the space and add in extra character and warmth. As well as elevating occupant wellbeing, it was also important to give users of the space the opportunity to give back to the planet too. The team installed recycling points across the space soNorthHillcould implement a recycling scheme for tenants.
Kevin Wither, added:“The main target audience for ready-to-work schemes are growing businesses; companies of around 20-30 people, possibly those that have just come out of a shared office space. A ready-to-work space does everything co-working provide can do - but on a bigger scale. We add features, design, desk layout and technology – all we need is branding input and design, which the agents have bought in to. The space works because the space sells itself. Tenants don’t have to imagine – they can touch, and they can feel. That’s the value of readytowork.Thirty Lighterman provides a beautifully designed, flexible workspace and we’re excited to see future tenants reap the benefits of the space.”
Zac Goodman, Director at NorthHill, concluded: “Thirty Lighterman strikes the balance of flexibility and autonomy for any incumbent occupiers. As a building it’s a heritage icon which has once again been repurposed for today’s workforce. We’re particularly happy with the buildings environmental credentials in light of the fact it’s over 100 years old now!”
