Wise needed a workplace destination to attract and retain talent – a hybrid model of flexibility with an adaptable office space to collaborate. The space in the iconic Tea Building encapsulates the workplace of the future, supporting agile working while celebrating the best of office culture.

Creativity
Informed by employees (‘Wisers’), the space encourages shared experiences, sustainability, and a wellness culture. The design is based on connectivity; connecting those working virtually and face-to-face, while creating a dynamic flow across all three floors. Split into ‘neighbourhoods’, we added a subtle cue to the use of each space through carpeting in different colours. Bold neon lightning strikes in the carpet, along with tiles in an angular design link back to the brand. The ’Enchanted Forest’ is another homage to the Wise culture, with an art wall capturing the Wise story – a great talking point for employees.

Innovation
The design considered the listed TEA building, sensitively combining old and new. A former warehouse, the iconic structure has many quirks and unique features which we preserved and incorporated into the design, from tiles and old doors to many columns, and wide walkways. This building is a destination in the trendy Shoreditch neighbourhood and the design makes the most of this.

Functionality
Working closely with Wise, we were able to fully understand Wisers’ needs and expectations – an adaptable office space where they could meet, connect, and collaborate. Wisers enjoy multiple spaces; from meeting rooms and quiet reflection rooms to technologically advanced collaborative areas with virtual whiteboards, and group spaces for short ‘stand-ups’ or more intense creative sessions. These interactive, yet efficient spaces, allow connection and social interaction, while respecting individual needs and working styles. A mix of fun spaces reflect the Wise culture. The central garden and terrace were a strong aspect of the redesign, since many Wisers had endured lockdown without access to the outdoors, as well as providing the Wiser dog community with room to roam. This workplace puts people at the centre of the design.

Sustainability
An important element of being sustainable is wellbeing: acoustic panels ensure the comfort of all those who use the space, there is a wellness room and quiet space with nap pods, dogs are welcome in the workplace, and with a terrace and gaming space, there are multiple spaces for Wisers to take a break. Sustainable materials and methods include upcycling and reupholstering existing furniture and implementing forward thinking materials, like ROOM booths made from recycled bottles. Biophilia has been implemented throughout, but most evidently in the ‘Enchanted Forest’, enhancing the user experience. We also installed All-Good Contego handles and aguaguard365 on communal furniture to minimise the spread of Covid-19 and other harmful pathogens, giving Wisers added peace of mind.