Edelman, a global communications firm, collaborated with Gensler to embark on an ambitious transformation of its London office, dubbed "Francis House." This project aimed not just at creating a workspace but at curating a sustainable, innovative and inclusive environment that resonated with Edelman's values and brand identity. Situated within the walls of a 1900s warehouse, Francis House represents a beacon of adaptive reuse, breathing new life into an existing structure while significantly reducing embodied carbon emissions associated with traditional demolition and construction practices.

At the core of this transformation lies a commitment to biophilic design principles, infusing the workspace with a profound connection to nature that enhances occupant well-being. The incorporation of heritage rugs not only enriches the cultural tapestry of the space but also fuels a give-back programme, directing proceeds towards funding new schools in the communities where they are crafted.

Francis House stands as a testament to Edelman's dedication to fostering a positive workplace culture and nurturing client relationships. The design places a premium on employee well-being, boasting amenities such as a meditation room and cycling facilities, while flexible workspaces cater to diverse workstyles and encourage collaboration. With the expansion to 45,000 square feet, a dedicated client floor has been added, further enhancing the workspace by providing a collaborative environment for clients and Edelman teams to ideate and innovate together.

Moreover, Edelman actively champions ethical sourcing practices, utilising EcoVadis for supplier accreditation to uphold high environmental and social standards in its supply chain. Vintage furniture has been carefully sourced, with 10% of it reupholstered using regionally produced textiles consisting of more than 50% recycled content. Additionally, 76% of task chairs have been reused and upcycled, further contributing to the workspace's sustainability ethos.

The design journey of Francis House was characterised by meticulous planning and collaboration, with every facet of the internal environment meticulously curated to align with Edelman's evolving principles of sustainability and community engagement. From personalised lighting controls to thematic inspirations drawn from various London neighbourhoods, each element of the workspace tells a story and contributes to the overarching vision of a transformative workplace.

As employees acclimate to their new surroundings, initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many attesting to the uplifting atmosphere and its positive impact on performance. With its seamless integration of historical charm and modern functionality, Francis House serves as a vibrant embodiment of creativity and innovation, epitomising Edelman's unwavering commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and excellence.