Stevens & Bolton LLP, a prominent legal firm in Guildford, partnered with DENTON to revitalise their existing office space and adapt it to the new ways of working. Seeking to encourage a return to the office, the firm aimed to provide areas that offered the comforts of home and fostered a pre-pandemic ambience. Agile workspaces were a key focus to accommodate diverse working styles and create a welcoming environment for clients who were once again visiting the office for face-to-face meetings.

DENTON teamed up with the Workplace Consultant engaged by Stevens & Bolton LLP in 2021 to develop a Change Management strategy for the business. Extensive client workshops were conducted to understand the requirements for the company’s future. As a result, Stevens & Bolton LLP decided to downsize from 3.5 floors to 2 within Wey House, Guildford. This change was driven by the demand for additional space from a sub-tenant and the evolving work styles post the Covid-19 pandemic.

The design solution involved managing the transition from 70% cellularisation, which is typical for legal offices, to 30%, creating agile workspaces that catered to different working styles. The design incorporated private and quiet working areas such as libraries, phone booths, and private working pods to address the shift to a fully open-plan space.

The design’s flexibility and range of workplace settings contributed to an inclusive environment that supported the diverse work styles of the team. The ground floor featured a spacious town hall/breakout area, serving as a social space for events and providing agile working spaces for the staff. Additional spaces were created for meetings, team collaboration, and a client meeting suite equipped with full video conferencing capabilities.

The design concept drew inspiration from the picturesque surroundings of the office near the River Wey, resulting in a modern space with a captivating atmosphere. Elements of fluidity, branded colours, and elegant curves were incorporated into the design, creating a visually appealing and engaging workspace.