Osborne Clark

Client Overview:

Osborne Clarke, a global law firm with 2,440 employees, moved into 74,000 sq ft of space in the Halo building in Bristol, bringing together 780 staff in one space. The relocation aimed to bring together employees in a workspace that reflects their commitment to sustainability, flexibility, and well-being. The new office needed to accommodate diverse working styles and foster collaboration while aligning with high sustainability standards such as WELL Building Standards and BREEAM certification.

The Brief

Osborne Clarke wanted a modern, people-focused workspace that supports both collaboration and individual work. The office needed to reflect their commitment to sustainability and well-being, with flexible spaces to cater to a wide range of working styles. The design also had to incorporate biophilic elements, ensuring the connection to nature was a prominent feature. In addition to practical workspaces, the office required social areas like a yoga studio and communal zones to create a sense of community.

What we did

We provided extensive biophilic design elements across all levels of the office. Large concrete-effect planters, filled with Ficus Lyrata, Kentia Palm, and Monstera, were strategically placed to introduce greenery throughout the space. Medium and small planters featuring Zamioculcas, Philodendron Congo, and Aglaonema were used to soften the work areas. Hanging planters with trailing plants like Scindapsus and Rhipsalis were positioned in communal areas and workspaces to add depth and texture.

We installed large gantry planters with mixed preserved planting to introduce low-maintenance greenery. End-of-desk planters with species such as Aspidistra and Asplenium provided a natural break between workspaces, improving both aesthetics and air quality. A living wall, nearly 9m long, was installed on Level 6, introducing a significant green element to the space.

Each level had its own distinct planting specification. For example, on Level 7, we introduced two living walls to bring nature indoors. Across all levels, planters were integrated into joinery, shelving, and communal areas, ensuring the greenery was visually prominent and harmonised with the overall design.

Outcome and Feedback:

The new office was a huge success, receiving accolades such as the Fit-Out of the Year award at the South West Property Awards 2023. Osborne Clarke’s employees appreciated the thoughtful design that prioritised well-being, sustainability, and collaboration. The biophilic elements, such as the living walls and extensive planting, helped create a calm and productive environment. The flexibility of the workspaces, combined with sustainable practices, supported diverse working styles and reduced the office’s environmental impact, aligning perfectly with the firm’s ethos.