the building and giving it a simplified black and
white aesthetic. The podium is dark and clad with
recycled security grilles from the original building.
These grilles have been fitted with planters at each
floor level so that, in time, they will be covered
with soft green creepers, giving the podium the
appearance of a large clipped hedge. The creepers
have been chosen to have a flush of seasonal white
flowers and the reuse of the grilles has added to
the Green Star submission.
MDS Architecture has chosen an open-plan
office layout with a restrained industrial design
studio aesthetic that contrasts with the slick and
glossy finishes on the exterior of the building.
The colours are generally also black and white
with painted rather than plastered brick, exposed
concrete and warmed with natural timbers. The
light fittings have been purpose made and are
chosen to reflect this aesthetic.
An internal pause area, featuring book-lined
shelves, a large screen TV and multi coloured bean
bags, is linked to the kitchen area with a huge
wooden island table that doubles up as a place for
lunch, as well as informal meetings.
The gallery linking the reception area to the
staff entrance and toilets has been treated with a
graphic bespoke wall covering that makes abstract
references to MDS Architecture’s many iconic
projects built over the years.
The toilet facilities have been treated very
differently to the run-of-the-mill toilets found in
office buildings, in that the wall surfaces are either
clad full height with black glass or a textured black
wall covering, contrasting with white porcelain
Stan Road
sanitaryware and white stone vanities. The ceilings
are also painted black. The WC cubicles are clad
externally with warm French oak timber and
internally with high gloss white ceramic tiles, all
in all creating a dramatic experience for the users.
Each office floor has been treated in such a way
that every tenant can create their own experience
and brand from the moment their visitors arrive.
Parking
Parking is provided in excess of the minimum
statutory requirement for offices; the parking areas
are all above ground and naturally ventilated and
illuminated. The new town planning requirements
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