1 West Smithfield

London

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At Emily Penrose Design we were entrusted with transforming both the reception and second-floor office space of a multi-let building in Farringdon, London. Our focus was on enhancing the existing fit-out by delivering a fresh, contemporary aesthetic while maximizing value through the reuse of key features.

In the reception area we retained the original terrazzo flooring and bench seating joinery, revitalising the space with lime-washed walls and ceilings for a textured, modern feel. New wall-lighting and a central pendant feature, with lights suspended at varying heights, added visual interest and warm pools of light throughout. A bespoke walnut timber joinery piece harmonises with the existing bench, housing a tenant board, post boxes, and display shelves for plants and decorative objects. Large, bright contemporary artworks opposite the lifts adds a final touch of vibrancy, perfectly tying in with the overall colour palette. The reupholstered bench in a dark, muted tan velvet blends seamlessly with the terrazzo floor, enhancing comfort and cohesion.

In the second floor office, we layered FF&E into the previous fit-out to create a more visually engaging and memorable space for potential tenants. Striking green wood-panelled feature walls were introduced to the central partition and visitor waiting area, bringing texture and breaking up the expanse of white walls. New tiling in the kitchen and breakfast bar areas adds a fresh, clean look, while new breakout furniture throughout the space increases functionality and aesthetic appeal. Bright red shelving energises the room, adorned with a curated selection of objects, plants, and books.

The styling was further enhanced with large-scale planting and contemporary art, alongside decorative lighting that adds warmth and ambience, creating a dynamic and welcoming environment for both work and leisure.

Our thoughtful design approach maximised value for our Client by reusing key elements from the existing fit-out while adding contemporary touches that transformed the space. By introducing carefully curated FF&E, enhancing styling with art and plants, and strategically utilising textures and colours, we created a memorable and welcoming environment without compromising on budget. This balance of cost efficiency and design impact ensured our client received a highly functional, visually compelling space that attracts and retains tenants.