QBE

Overview:

The QBE Leeds project was a comprehensive 18-week design and build transformation of a 37,500 sqft three-floor office space. Focused on relocating and modernising their workspace, QBE wanted to move away from a traditional, corporate look and feel; creating a contemporary, warm, welcoming environment which embraced the industrial elements of the building. The space and the facilities within it needed to encourage collaboration and communication between the multiple teams, who had previously worked in silos.  270 workstations were spread across the three floor plates, with pockets of collaborative zones added to break up the desking areas. A flexible town hall space was added on the fifth floor to facilitate large company & client events, whilst a central breakout area was created on the third floor to bring employees together.

Solution::

The solution for the QBE Leeds office redesign is a thoughtfully crafted workspace that balances functionality, aesthetic appeal, and a sense of community. By introducing open, collaborative areas and a central staircase connecting teams across floors, the design enhances communication and cohesion among employees. The reception area is a warm, welcoming focal point, featuring a striking tiled logo wall, an inviting soft seating area, and ambient lighting. Central breakout spaces and strategically placed coffee points foster employee collaboration and integration between teams, while the games room on the fourth floor provides a vibrant retreat, contrasting with the workspace to inspire relaxation and creativity. The use of industrial accents, wood tones, and layered textures creates a modern yet timeless atmosphere that reflects the local heritage of Leeds. Through this design, QBE Leeds achieves a workplace that embodies collaboration, comfort, and a lasting connection to the community and culture it serves.

Key Features:

Reception and Key Areas

The reception area will be a central, welcoming focal point, featuring a striking staggered tile wall, ambient amber pendant lighting, and soft seating arrangements. This area will also incorporate QBE’s branding, setting the tone for a professional yet inviting atmosphere right upon entry.

Central Breakout and Collaboration Spaces

At the heart of the office will be a central breakout space, designed to encourage social interaction and team collaboration. Each floor will host smaller coffee points to offer easy access for employees to refresh and connect. The open-plan arrangement and designated breakout spaces will foster a fluid work environment, seamlessly blending productivity and social interaction.

Staircase and Connectivity

A key structural feature is the staircase punched through the third and fourth floors, creating a central hub that physically and visually connects teams. This architectural feature not only bridges the physical gap between previously separated teams but also cultivates a unified culture and cohesive workflow.

Aesthetic Touches and Materials

Embracing Leeds’ industrial heritage and the industrial fabric of the building, the design incorporates exposed materials and warm wood tones. Textures such as leather and velvet, combined with pops of colour in the furniture and artwork, introduce a homely and welcoming vibe. The palette has been thoughtfully curated to ensure timeless appeal, with classic neutrals enhanced by bold, age-resistant accents.

Games Room and Recreational Area

A unique addition on the fourth floor, the games room, features a pool table, bold carpeting, and a bespoke art wall, paying homage to Leeds and its music scene.

Sustainability & Furniture Re-use

QBE had a large inventory of existing furniture from multiple offices within their portfolio. A key driver for the project was to reuse of as much furniture as possible whilst not compromising the overall desired look and feel. DENTON worked closely with the client team to make sure this objective was met, supporting the sustainable principles of the overall project.