Uniting teams through adaptive workplace design for a global SaaS brand
Reflecting Newcastle’s industrial past while remaining rooted in a global brand narrative, this bold Design uses inventive space planning, biophilic assets and a vibrant colour palette to bring fresh energy and cohesion to the workforce.
Client
Hubexo
Sector
Commercial Office
Size
14,000 sq ft
Service
Design & Build
Duration
14 Weeks
Location
Newcastle
Previously operating across several floors of a listed building, the teams at Hubexo – a construction technology company – had become siloed and disparate. In search of greater cohesion and effective collaboration, the decision was made to relocate the workforce to new premises on a single floor of a modern office complex in the attractive, Quayside area of Newcastle.
Having previously worked on a fit-out project for Hubexo’s sister brand, AxisHouse came highly recommended for our ability to deliver creative spaces within a short timeframe and to an impressively high standard. Facing the challenge of operating in a multi-tenanted building, we kept the client informed at every stage of this commercial office fit-out, regularly liaising over material selection and holding frequent update meetings.
“I’ve seen more people in the new building over the last two weeks than I saw in the old offices over the whole three and a half years I’ve worked here! The sense of connection is much more apparent. People stop to chat. It feels like a much more sociable space now.”
As part of an international network of offices, we wanted the Newcastle fit-out to reflect the city’s vibrant and distinct spirit while aligning with the firm’s global brand essence.
With the brief demanding greater cohesion and enhanced flow, we divided the 14,000 sq ft space into distinct zones to give the exuberant sales teams space to perform without disrupting quieter functions of the business. The new layout has a natural rhythm, using key neighbourhoods to shape movement, balance acoustics and create appropriate settings according to function.
A central breakout hub brings staff together, connecting departments with a high-spec kitchen, communal dining area, and town hall space, complete with bleacher-style seating. Glazed meeting rooms, pods and touchdown settings add flexibility, while hospitality cues, biophilia and natural light make the open-plan spaces feel calm and welcoming.
As an alternative to a conventional reception area, the attractive business lounge with a hospitality feel greets visitors to Hubexo’s Newcastle hub. The diaphanous acoustic curtain surrounding the soft seating creates a soothing and welcoming first impression while allowing natural light to flow through the space.
Drawing on hospitality design trends, the breakout zone centres on a stylish kitchen featuring industrial lighting and an inviting high breakfast bar. The homely feel created here encourages colleagues to pause for a chat and a coffee. Pops of orange throughout the design reflect the tones of the brickwork and terracotta chimney pots in Newcastle’s Quayside quarter.
Hubexo’s new premises now meet the diverse needs of all aspects of the workforce – senior management, sales teams and technical support alike.
“Feedback from our colleagues has been amazing,” says Pamela Jowsey, Hubexo’s Facilities Manager. “The word ‘love’ has been used a lot! They love the space, the views, the meeting rooms and the town hall space.
“The whole team at AxisHouse have been absolutely amazing throughout the whole process.”
Hubexo’s redesign has brought new energy to the Newcastle brand’s hub. Call us today to discuss how we can help improve your team’s performance with a design-focused commercial office fit-out.
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