Multiple floors of stylish art deco designs for the iconic Kent House

Reduce, reuse, recycle

As with all of our projects in collaboration with GPE, sustainability is at the forefront of the design to align with our joint commitments to a greener future. A marble kitchen island from GPE's old office has started a new phase in its lifecycle as a marble-topped table in one of the meeting rooms, removing the base and adding legs to create a unique furniture piece that’s a real talking point.

In the same room, you’ll find acoustic panels on the walls made from recycled bottles etched with the sweeping curves pattern associated with the art deco era. Portable charging discs complete the smart tech on offer - a fantastic way to provide charging without having to cut into the marble table.

Over in the teapoint, lit by custom hanging light planters, we’ve used 3D ceramic tiles that are made from 70% recycled materials. Whilst in other communal areas, innovative carpet tiles with their own non-damaging adhesive are a real win for making sure when the time does come to remove them, they won't leave a mark.

The latest addition to Kent House, a refreshed Level 1 open-plan office, features a collaboration table made from recycled plastic, artwork cleverly constructed from recycled pine needles that doubles as acoustic solutions, and zig-zag wall panels made from potato pulp that stylishly dress the meeting room walls. We reused desks from a previous tenant, and a stunning, pre-loved credenza takes pride of place in one of several modern meeting rooms.

Let there be light

Greater light means greater concentration, productivity and positivity. We exposed the ceilings in spaces where people gather the most, including the communal breakout and working areas, to brighten each office and make the most of its natural light. Our design also positioned all working areas near the full-height windows.

Around the core, where the infrastructure for services is necessary, we mapped out a suite of meeting rooms in varying sizes with ceilings that hide cables and ductwork. The open plan areas feature light and airy work settings, whilst meeting rooms were kept intentionally cosy and private with atmospheric brass downlights, custom dado rails and soft domestic design touches.

Keeping it in the family

GPE wanted a design that could be used on all the floors in the building. Something easily adaptable for incoming tenants, but still stylish and full of character without being generic. We chose timeless and hard-wearing fixtures and fittings which reflect the professional feel and inviting culture of the building.

Each office has standard steel-framed glazing screens and cube storage ‘systems’ for dividing its footprint into different zones that can be moved, upscaled or downsized as needed which is also cost-effective and convenient for both landlord and tenant.

Have a seat

Walk through these offices and you’ll find spaces to have meetings, concentrate, relax, focus and collaborate. You’ll find one-of-a-kind preloved chairs in an art deco theme that were sourced specifically to add a touch of glamour and bespoke style. Each preloved furniture piece features a unique note telling its story, of which this refurbishment is the next chapter.

An office experience

The office spaces throughout looks and feels worthy of the GPE's portfolio and, most importantly, its tenants. You feel an immediate sense of place and purpose on arrival. Clear sight lines across the workspace encourage connection and engagement, supported by soft homely nuances and focus on biophilia. Its art deco aesthetic combines seamlessly with an inviting layout and design choices to give visitors an office experience they won't forget.