Reed Smith, London

Reed Smith is a progressive law firm with a collegiate and innovative approach.  Relocating from Broadgate Tower, their new workplace needed to create a truly unique proposition that reflects their distinct culture and reframes their identity.

Set across two interlinked buildings; Blossom Studios, a converted 1890s warehouse, and the newly built Blossom Yard, the design goes against the grain of a traditional law office to create a more expressive environment. It draws inspiration from the area’s Georgian and Victorian heritage and celebrates the unique character of the retained warehouse building.

Creating a seamlessly linked workplace while highlighting the respective qualities of the buildings was central to the design. A harmonious transition between the Studios and the Yard has been achieved by blending in elements of the old structure, such as breaking through one of the walls to create an internal atrium that reveals the brickwork of the warehouse’s former façade,

Spanning eight floors, the first three floors connect both buildings, with Blossom Studios curated as destination spaces for welcoming and entertaining clients and staff. Arrival begins at Level 1, where a central stair, designed within an existing lightwell physically and visually connect the floors and buildings.

Wellness spaces, including a fitness studio, quiet room, parents’ room, and a multi-purpose treatment room, are located on level two, while level three boasts a bespoke bar and club space with access to an outdoor terrace. The space is a hub of activity, with an inclusive, vibrant atmosphere for both staff and visitors to celebrate, socialise, and network. The club’s eclectic design, blending diverse styles and textures strikes a perfect balance between focus and engagement.

Focused on adapting to post-pandemic work patterns, we conducted a pilot scheme with employees to ensures all voices were considered into the workplace design process. This resulted in a mix of open, agile, and private workspace to the employees’ preferences. Social areas complement these spaces bridging gaps and fostering interaction.

The design strategy achieved BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and draws on the principles of WELL accreditations, responding to high sustainability standards and setting a strong ambition for future developments in the area.