Rethinking the office: renew or relocate?
HFW is a global law firm providing sector-focused solutions for international commerce. In 2019, it sought M Moser’s advice on renewing its lease or relocating to a new site.
Over four years, our team guided the client through a workplace transformation.
Our role included developing a new workplace strategy, defining the requirement, and then assisting with the building search and technical due diligence before leading the interior design of the new office.
Key highlights
Developing a new workplace strategy to support the firm's transformation.
Advising on key decisions through a range of project consulting services.
Designing a sophisticated destination that increases cross-sector collaboration.
The work floors embrace a more open layout, eliminating the physical barriers that once hindered communication and collaboration. V-shaped desks offer generous surface space for individual or collaborative work. The desk arrangement allows for more fluid movement across the floorplate. Clear sightlines provide visual connectivity, reinforcing unity among teams. Additionally, adjacent quiet rooms support these work areas.
In contrast, the workplace includes dedicated spaces for focused work. For example, ‘The Study’ is designed to facilitate maximum concentration. Comprising 5% of total workstations, it offers a calm environment suitable for those with neurodiverse needs, allowing them to work quietly, but without the isolation of a small meeting room.
The client suite is a hospitality-style area behind the reception, which doubles as a flexible event space for up to 140 people. Providing an environment for staff to recharge or entertain, the suite opens onto a large terrace with a panoramic view of London. In addition, the suite hosts the boardroom, specialist spaces for litigation and mediation and a range of meeting rooms to suit different needs.
We helped HFW with tenant-requested modifications to the building. The changes involved liaising with the landlord and securing planning permission to introduce additional terrace doors, enhancing accessibility to the outdoor area.