QUINTON BUSINESS PARK, BIRMINGHAM

A MULTI-LET SCHEME 5 MILES OUTSIDE OF THE CITY CENTRE. THE TEAM CARRIED OUT A CAT A REFURBISHMENT OF BUILDING 4 INCLUDING:

• Total redesign of 3-storey atrium reception and break out spaces
• Refurbishment of all male & female WC’s and showers

Instructed by the Landlord, Columbia Threadneedle, we worked closely with the Client and leasing agents to develop a detailed understanding of their aspirations for the building. It became clear the aim was to reposition Building 4 as a unique, stand out property on the Park and the design needed to be sufficiently creative and exciting to reflect this.

THE CHALLENGE

STAIRCASE

The reception area was dominated by a dated, white metal staircase stretching the full height of the atrium.

TRANSFORMED

Painted black, it was transformed from an unattractive feature into a graphic centrepiece & this idea formed the starting point for the industrial inspired design scheme.  Industrial touches were introduced throughout, offset by warm woods and a vibrant colour and materials palette.  A wood effect, porcelain floor tile was used on the ground floor to add a richness and warmth whilst being robust enough for a high-traffic area.

SEATING

The seating in the reception area was severely lacking & the only space for visitors to wait was at a small table and chairs. Not a particularly comfortable or attractive seating option & yet there was so much under-utilised space on the Ground Floor.

By removing the awkward & redundant security gate and railings, we immediately opened up the space and created a better flow of traffic throughout and a more welcoming entrance.

TRANSFORMED

Replaced by a bespoke steel, wraparound leather bench, we made effective use of the previously inaccessible space underneath the stairs.  The choice of materials injected texture, colour & tactility, whilst creating a comfortable place for visitors and tenants to wait.

The oversized reception desk was removed and replaced with a sleeker, bespoke patinated steel and oak desk design to echo the bench seating.  The alarm panels were integrated into an EPD designed, graphic artwork which although partially disguised, still allowed access and visibility to the key parts of the panel.

LIGHTING DESIGN

A tiered lighting feature handmade in bone china, creates a stunning focal point in the atrium, emitting a warm glow as people travel up the building.  A variety of industrial lighting styles were installed throughout – oversized factory pendants in the break out space, along with fluted glass, industrial style pendants and fluted glass pillar, wall lights in the bathrooms.

WALL TILING DESIGN

On each level, the lifts had been clad in a timber surround to match the internal doors throughout the building.  This was removed and replaced by a contemporary, wood grain patterned, herringbone wall tile which not only added texture but a dramatic dose of colour in the teal, pink and natural wood tones.

This was replicated around the lifts on each floor of the building to create continuity and impact in every area.  The colour palette and industrial design throughout was harmonised with extensive tropical planting to soften the space and enhance the feeling of wellbeing.

BATHROOMS

We installed floor tiles in a grey concrete, chevron pattern, with high gloss wall tiles in two tones behind the basins and inside the cubicles which reflected the light, adding depth and sense of luxury.

A warm wood veneer applied to the cubicles, leather detailing on the mirrors, black hardware and planting all contribute to setting the building facilities apart from the average office.