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Technology Road

Dining in style: a workplace cafeteria with real ‘wow factor’

Featuring both biophilic and industrial design elements, this contemporary cafeteria fosters wellbeing and collaboration – transforming lunch breaks into an engaging, shared experience.

Client

Parvalux

Sector

Manufacturing

Size

2,500 sq ft

Service

Design & Build

Duration

6 Weeks

Location

Poole, Dorset

Having moved to a new HQ and production facility, our client Parvalux – a leading electric motor manufacturer – decided they needed a contemporary café space with ‘wow factor’ that would bring staff together from different areas of the business and provide an event space when needed.

We worked with the Parvalux directors, internal staff and marketing department to come up with design concepts and ideas to meet their vision and aspirations. The ambition was to make a strong brand statement for visiting clients while building company culture and allowing for whole team presentations and events.

“In our old premises, the canteen was dated and not at all welcoming. You’d only ever see about 10 people in there. But now it’s packed every lunchtime. We’ve seen a complete turnaround.”

Marketing Manager
Parvalux

The new café has a contemporary, airy feel that unites the workforce and makes a great first impression on visiting clients. As per the brief, it’s a modern, inviting space that’s easy to maintain.

A key part of the remit was for the new cafeteria to act as a central hub, uniting the workforce and creating an attractive space for socialising and collaboration. We split the space into clearly defined sections with open seating, booths, a relaxation area with a pool table and sofas, and a coffee point with catering facilities.

The project was completed in just six weeks, with AXIS House providing consultation and design services as well as the Cat B fit-out elements of the cafeteria as well as an upgrade to the standard wall and ceiling infrastructure.

Design details

  • Elements of industrial design such as the black-framed seating, Crittall-style glazing and utilitarian pendant lighting reference the brand’s manufacturing purpose.
  • Ceiling baffles and distinctive pendant lighting help to delineate different areas of the cafeteria while creating visual interest.
  • The pool table provides a playful touch and the opportunity for colleagues to pick up a cue during their lunch break.
  • Bespoke oak joinery for the banquette partitions and bar stool ledge adds a pleasing solidity while aligning with the biophilic theme.
  • Welcoming restaurant-style booths create moments of privacy for team huddles or quick catch-ups.

A contemporary event space

As well as operating as a work canteen, the new cafeteria needed to double up as a venue for team presentations and training events.

With enough room for the whole workforce to gather, the generous space incorporates a range of seating options from bar stools and banquettes to sofas and dining chairs.

Biophilic design for comfort and wellbeing

To address a key objective relating to staff wellbeing, we applied biophilic design principles using generous planting, natural materials such as oak, a calming colour palette, and an abundance of natural light.

Coupled with soft seating in the relaxation zone, these nature-inspired elements provide a cocooning environment with a wholesome, earthy aesthetic.

Why did you choose AXIS House?

“We chose AXIS House after attending an event they’d hosted. We were impressed by the quality of the furniture and their design flair. The canteen looks fantastic and has really delivered on our vision. The space brings people together and has helped create more of a community.”

Marketing Manager, Parvalux

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