Leading UK renewable energy developer OnPath Energy have moved into a two-storey development at Chase House, Rainton Bridge Business Park following the completion of our turnkey fit-out.
After winning the contract in a competitive tender process, we worked with design partner Cocoon & Bauer to create and deliver a blueprint that was developed around the principles of sustainable and biophilic design, which aims to increase occupants’ connection with the surrounding environment.
The building provides more than 13,200 sq ft of high-quality office space and includes a range of environmental measures which have earned it an Energy Performance Rating of A, including eco-friendly air conditioning.
We always consider how we can design workspaces which impact the productivity and well-being of the individual, and therefore the company.
For this project – like many others – Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into built environments, has proven to significantly enhance employee wellbeing. It made perfect sense to incorporate these principles on this project due to the beautiful views of the greenery outside and the abundance of natural light pouring into the space. The connection to nature fosters a sense of calm and creativity, contributing to a more positive work environment.
We have lead with a warm green colour throughout, contrasting against natural timber finishes and stone as well as a large moss feature wall tailored to the new company branding.
This design approach is meant to harness the restorative power of nature, promoting physical health, reducing stress, and boosting overall job satisfaction.
Research indicates that workplaces featuring elements like natural light, green spaces, and organic materials can lead to higher productivity. Add in splashes of colour in the form of burnt oranges and vibrant yellows and we also subconsciously feel more energized and positive.
As well as the aesthetics, we wanted to ensure any users – employees or visitors, felt that the office catered for their working needs. By this we mean providing spaces and/or furniture which allows the individual to decide what type of working environment suits their requirements. Such as private workrooms, lounges, meeting rooms, booths, touchdown seats, breakout areas.
Each of these provide working scenarios tailored to meet the required level of focus, collaboration and duration. This means the entire office space is more fluid and agile. The synergy between biophilic design and agile workspaces fosters a versatile, engaging, and health-promoting work environment, enabling employees to thrive in settings that respond to both their physical and psychological needs.
Environmentally conscious design was at the centre of our specifications for Chase House, to ensure that we’re reflecting the priorities of the business in the ways that we work every day, and we’re absolutely thrilled with the space that’s been delivered. Our first meeting with the Ultimate team was incredibly positive and set the tone for our relationship through a project that had to be delivered to a very tight schedule. They understood the brief immediately, gave us lots of great ideas and kept us closely involved as everything took shape.
Lynne Wilson, Business Support Manager, OnPath Energy
