LI

Wykeham Court

Putting warmth and wellbeing centre stage for this trusted law firm

Featuring biophilic elements and a calming colour palette, this contemporary design unites the team while providing a sophisticated environment reflecting this law firm’s impeccable heritage.

Client

Trethowans

Sector

Commercial Office

Size

4,400 sq ft

Service

Design & Build

Duration

9 Weeks

Location

Winchester

Trethowans, a law firm operating for more than 150 years, approached us to design & build their new Winchester office to bring them in line with their company ethos and to allow for future expansion. They requested a law firm Fit-Out that would encourage collaboration and wellbeing, while providing an appropriate welcome for their clients.

We worked with Trethowans to design two distinct zones as they prepared to move into larger premises on the first floor of Wykeham Court. The client-facing section features a reception area, boardroom and private meeting rooms, while the staff zone comprises open-plan spaces with a focus on collaboration.

“The client was open, engaged and receptive to fresh design ideas. The new offices reflect Trethowans’ values, culture and vision.”

Agata Stachnik
Designer, AxisHouse

Reflecting the reliability of this well-respected law firm, the reception area is designed to put visitors at ease. Natural materials, organic shapes and carefully considered lighting create a welcoming first impression.

Having stripped out the existing fittings, the AxisHouse team set to work installing new partition walls, flooring, lighting, glazing, M&E and feature elements. While operating in a multi-tenanted building, precision and efficiency were paramount, keeping the client fully informed every step of the way.

The L-shaped footprint was divided into two separate zones. The client-facing space features a stylish reception area, meeting rooms and a boardroom with acoustic panels for optimal sound quality. The staff zone is inviting with open-plan desking, collaboration areas, breakout space and a wellbeing room.

Design details

  • Architectural details across the entire law firm Fit-Out such as lighting, handles and taps are consistently finished in black to bring a modern, timeless character to the design.
  • Crittall-style doors and glazed meeting room partitions provide a level of privacy while allowing natural light to flow throughout the space.
  • Reception area features soft seating, organic shapes and backlit joinery panels to create a distinctive welcome reflecting the hosts’ warmth and professionalism.
  • The palette follows Trethowans’ predominant brand colour of blue while supplementing it with grey, oatmeal and charcoal to create a calm and cohesive aesthetic.
  • Referencing the firm’s prestigious heritage, some of the meeting rooms feature decorative architectural mouldings.
  • To meet Trethowans’ sustainability objectives, some of the existing carpets were retained to reduce waste, and any new floor coverings were sourced from carbon-neutral suppliers. All the timber sourced for the project was FSC-certified.

Seeking inspiration from nature

With plenty of greenery and a welcome flow of natural light, the open-plan desking area leans into the benefits of biophilic design. Wood-effect finishes and real plants contribute to the sense of calm while enhancing staff wellbeing. Adjustable Venetian blinds allow light to flood the space or can be angled for shade when needed.

Bringing wellbeing to the fore

This comfortable corner of the staff breakout area is the perfect place to settle down with a colleague for a coffee and a catch-up. Soft-textured fabrics give the space a home-from-home feel to encourage relaxed collaboration. The attractive, calming space reflects Trethowans’ objective to prioritise staff wellbeing and mental health.

A contemporary update to reflect continued growth

With an exceptional pedigree and plans for continued expansion, Trethowans needed a law firm Fit-Out that would reflect their professional approach while supporting their employee’s health and wellbeing.

Bringing biophilic elements and classic design principles into the mix, AxisHouse created a contemporary scheme in which clients and staff alike feel welcomed, supported and appreciated.

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