The magazine stands are awash with interior design publications with page after page bursting with inspiration and new season design trends – the choices are mind boggling.
But what about the spaces where we work in?
In these hybrid working times, we want to go to work and enjoy the space around us – as much as we do in our own homes. We want to feel uplifted and inspired by our surroundings – functional box spaces with row upon row of desks with a photocopier and vending machine no longer wash with today’s wellbeing aware workforce.
The latest space to receive a make-over at MediaCity is the expansive sixth floor in Orange Tower. With its floor to ceiling windows and views across Salford and a birdseye view of MediaCity – it’s in the heart of the City but has the rarity value of feeling calm and connected with the outdoors. This is an interior designer’s dream. But where do they start?
Interior designer Kat Sherwood from Consensus who were appointed by MediaCity to deliver the transformation, said:
“The feeling of space and bringing the outside in was the inspiration for its biophilic design. We’ve connected the outside with the interior using natural colours – pale greens, taupe, terracotta and beige paired with oak effect features throughout the space.”
It’s recognised that spaces featuring biophilia – an abundance of plants – uplift, inspire and motivate those around them. Studies show the myriad of benefits plants bring to humans in work setting and how their presence can boost productivity.
The botanical theme runs throughout the space with tendrils of foliage overflowing from the top of design-led timber slat panels with atmospheric lighting creating a dramatic look. As you walk through the space the natural path has been softened and curved as well as the shape of the boardroom to give it an organic feel.
Inspired by architect and designer Thomas Hetherswick who said:
“There’s a beauty in raw function – creating something ordinary into something extraordinary, the ceiling has been removed and sophets raised to reveal the ducts and inner workings of the building.”
Kat added:
“By removing the ceiling it creates even more height and feeling of of space plus it’s a cool feature to have the intricate veins of the building on display. Hetherswick notion of making something ordinary, extraordinary was right in that respect.”
The only linear contours within this space are the geometric lines on the glass interior walls which cleverly mirror the A shaped frame of the glass windows. The attention to detail by Kat and the team is in itself inspiring.
“The design has some surprises too – such as the pink mother of pearl tiles in the kitchen area which shimmer and complement the natural colour palette. It’s quirky and something that you wouldn’t expect to see in an office kitchen,” adds Kat.
Of course, this beautiful space is an office first and foremost but one that puts its occupier’s comfort and needs first. There’s plenty of soft seating, cosy corners to relax, work or collaborate as well as quiet spaces if you need to focus. The large collaboration table with great views over the city has a drinks fridge creating a multi-functional space which can be turned into a place to socialise. The 6,733 sq ft space can fit as many as 80 desks but it’s hard to imagine ever feeling hemmed in within this light airy oasis of calm.
Kat adds:
“What’s really important is that the space is palatable to everyone – it’s a timeless design which would appeal to a broad range of sectors from fashion to financiers. We’ve thought carefully about the colour palette and any brand colour can sit alongside it, so it’s easy for potential occupiers to see themselves in this space.”
Prepare to be inspired. This space is pure class – no vending machines on show here.
Explore it virtually here:7th Floor, Orange – 6,773 sq ft (matterport.com)
For more information on Orange visit Orange — Office Space in Salford Quays, Manchester — MediaCity (mediacityuk.co.uk)
To arrange a viewing please contact: tim.wyer@mediacityuk.co.uk
