SPACEINVADER
Living planting throughout the space reflects the recognised and important aspect of biophilic design within the workplace . This is not only with air-purifying qualities and reduction of potential pollutants in mind , but also because the visibility of planting openly promotes employee well-being . Additionally , eight-stand up desks are provided along with a stand-up desk in the project space , allowing colleagues to stand whilst working and move around throughout the day . Fresh fruit and lunches are provided free of charge to all colleagues to encourage socialising and users to be able to move away from their desks .
The SpaceInvader team also reached out to Manchester based , independent artists to create feature commissions within the space , such as the feature ‘ wave ’ ceiling within the client / visitor lounge . In addition , the team commissioned a local art photographer to celebrate the area through a series of locationspecific photographic artworks . These feature within the meeting rooms around a theme of ‘ Manchester pubs ’.
‘ Within weeks of moving in , the Muse team was moving around the office using the different spaces and collaborating with different people . The new agility has been a huge success ’ John Williams commented .
A survey of Muse employees ( with over 70 % response rate ) showed that 100 % felt that working at Riverside House helped them work more collaboratively , 96 % said the office helped them work more efficiently and 88 % felt that it helped to support their physical and mental wellbeing .
‘ We ’ ve ended up with a fairly unique office . Everyone loves the look of it . I know everyone says that , but everyone who comes to the office genuinely does love it ’, Phil Marsden commented .
www . spaceinvaderdesign . co . uk
DESIGN SUCCESS
The project has revolutionised the way Muse works . Colleagues now have a modern , quality , flexible , logical and well-designed space in which to work . Muse ’ s rationale was simple : their new office should make a statement about their approach to innovative , regenerative development and their commitment to the region , whilst seizing the opportunity to embrace a new way of working . By paying homage to Salford through its landscape , urban grain and engaging with its people , such as local artists , a further dimension has been added to this building as it starts its new chapter .
ARCHETECH - PAGE 34