When Ruth Warder, CEO of Global Communications Edelman UK The EMEA brand president came across an old warehouse dating back to the 1900s and realized it was the perfect place for the company to grow. “We knew it was the perfect blank canvas to bring to life the vision we had for the post-pandemic workplace,” she said. I work with executionerThis vision has become a reality – it occupies 45,000 square feet, eight mezzanines and five floors. The new headquarters is named Francis House, is designed to be more than just a place to work. It is a vibrant hub to inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and cultivate meaningful connections between employees and their customers.
Beams of natural light enter from the double height windows. Shared stations allow for focused work and neighborhood communications.
Bar and lounge seating helps support employees' changing preferences throughout the day.
To expand the original 35,000-square-foot building by 10,000 square feet, the design team created five new mezzanine floors and five new staircases. These additional levels provide integrated functional spaces for formal meetings, impromptu collaboration and live individual work. Antique furniture and repurposed pieces from the company's former workplace create an eclectic, contemporary aesthetic while reaffirming Gensler and Edelman's commitment to sustainability. In addition, there are over 700 seats with 24 different seat types to support Edelman UK's 700+ employees and their different work styles. From stress-relieving game rooms to quiet spaces for focused work, Francis House caters to the different styles of productivity and fluctuations in energy one may have during an entire workday.
The vine-like canopy of plants adds a lively element to the light-diffused ceiling.
Benches create an informal atmosphere for communication and collaboration.
Inside the office, an entire floor serves Edelman's clients, whether they're there for a visit or just on business. This type of customer support underscores Edelman's commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering lasting relationships. “As creative companies around the world seek to redefine the purpose of their offices, Francis House is a destination that embodies all the attributes of the workplace of the future – ushering in a new era that brings employees and clients together in a collaborative, sustainable environment that celebrates ‘individualism and culture-building’,” emphasizes Carlos. Posado, director at Gensler.
The console can be used to display different objects as a room divider, visually marking the lounge space but not enclosing it.
The extra-long island provides ample seating in the open kitchen.
As the workplace landscape continues to evolve, Francis House is a prime example of the power of thoughtful design to shape the future of work. By embracing flexibility, sustainability and innovation, Edelman's London office sets a new standard for excellence and creativity in the workplace.
Curtains help provide flexibility and provide a temporary enclosed space for meetings and presentations.
The space can also accommodate larger crowds.
This area of various displays and seating can quickly adapt to large events and meetings.
Photography by Viggo Jansons.
