Growth meets heritage in a landmark move
Following acquisition by Lawfront, Trethowans wanted to create a flagship office within Bournemouth’s historic Art Deco building. This character-rich, challenging space was transformed into a high-performing workplace.
Client
Trethowans
Sector
Commercial Office
Size
10,000 sq ft
Service
CAT B Design & Fit-Out
Duration
12 Weeks
Location
Bournemouth
Following its partnership with Lawfront, Trethowans entered a new phase of accelerated growth, supported by investment and strategic expertise to expand its regional footprint
The law firm’s previous space no longer met their growth or client experience ambitions. The team wanted a workplace that could scale, attract talent and reflect its evolving brand within a competitive market
A huge thank you to the AxisHouse team for their work on our new Bournemouth office. It looks incredible, and we have already had so much positive feedback. We now have the right environment to expand – a high quality office for our high quality lawyers.
Growth demanded more than space—it required a workplace that could transform capability, culture and client experience.
Axis House delivered a beautiful, design-led CAT B fit-out that aligned with both Trethowans' ambition and the architectural context. Working within Bobby’s historic structure, the design preserves heritage while embracing contemporary workplace trends. A clear spatial hierarchy defines the journey, from professional front-of-house areas to collaborative open-plan zones.
The design balances heritage and modernity, retaining architectural features while introducing refined, brand-led detailing. Close coordination and proactive problem-solving throughout the project ensured programme continuity, even as material challenges emerged.
The layout creates a natural flow through the space. A refined reception establishes a strong first impression, leading into the suite of formal meeting rooms and boardroom facilities designed for client engagement. Beyond this, the workspace transitions into a bright collaborative environment organised around a central hub—encouraging integration across teams and supporting a range of working styles.
The design carefully balances heritage and contemporary elements. Bespoke architectural arches, and textured finishes reference the building’s character, sitting alongside original features such as the timber flooring and arched windows, while modern materials and detailing introduce a clean, professional identity that align beautifully with the Trethowans brand.
Breakout and social spaces adopt a softer, hospitality-inspired feel, creating a clear distinction from formal areas while providing spaces for informal collaboration and downtime. The kitchen, framed by architectural detailing, acts as a focal point for the workplace. Wellbeing is considered throughout with layered finishes, a dedicated room for decompressing and lush, natural planting
By transforming an historic 1915 Art Deco building into a contemporary, high-performing workplace, AxisHouse delivered a space that supports Trethowans’ long-term ambitions. This new prinicpal office enhances both client experience and employee wellbeing, while providing the flexibility and scale for future growth.
Create a space that optimises the space you have available to better reflect your brand, support your people, and create a superior experience for clients.
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