Chatham Financial, London
Enhancing Productivity in London.
Bringing new office vision for life for a financial giant in London.
Chatham Financial engaged iQ Workspace to help shape their new office environment, with a key requirement being sit-stand desks. While the initially requested models weren’t supplied, Chatham Financial had a strong vision for these solutions, having trialled Formetiq Alto and Haikin Woolf desks in their previous space to ensure long-term quality and reliability. The initial concept included individual desk-mounted acoustic panels, but iQ Workspace proposed a more cost-effective solution using specialised brackets to address acoustic needs.
Following a move to new premises and collaboration with an architect on space planning, Chatham Financial partnered with iQ Workspace to specify furniture colours tailored to their precise requirements. The client, demonstrating a clear understanding of quality furniture’s benefits and a focus on durability, showed particular interest in product technical specifications.
Ultimately, iQ Workspace delivered Alto 2 standing desks, initially to Chatham Financial’s previous location and subsequently to their new office.
Services Used
Office Space Planning
Workspace Design
Furniture Installation
The brief
- Chatham Financial engaged iQ Workspace to design their new office, initially requesting only standing desks.
- The client sought to optimise their workspace with the focus of improving employee productivity and well-being.
- They envisioned a modern and collaborative environment supporting their dynamic work style.
- They specifically required the Formetiq Alto and Haikin Woolf desks due to their long-term quality and consistency.
- The client also needed acoustic panels and preferred a more economical bracket solution rather than individual panels.
- Additionally, Chatham required a specific colour scheme, which required collaboration with an architect to finalise the specifications for the furniture colours.
- The main focus was quality and durability, as the client was technically knowledgeable and required detailed specifications before approving the final product.
The approach
Our journey with Chatham Financial began with an initial consultation, during which they expressed their desire for stand-up desks. While we ultimately explored alternative solutions, this initial conversation highlighted their focus on employee comfort and well-being.
A key challenge was to address their need for privacy and acoustic comfort. The client initially requested individual acoustic panels for each standing desk, which would have significantly increased costs. Through collaborative discussions, we identified a more cost-effective solution, utilising strategically placed, shorter acoustic screen dividers to create zones of privacy while maintaining an open and collaborative atmosphere.
Chatham Financial further emphasised the importance of high-quality, durable furniture. They carefully evaluated two leading brands, Formetiq Alto Standing Desk and Haikin Woolf, conducting thorough product trials in their existing office space. This meticulous approach ensured that the chosen furniture would meet their specific needs and withstand the demands of a busy working environment.
The solution
Based on the successful trials, Chatham Financial selected the Formetiq Alto Sit Stand desks as the cornerstone of their new workspace.
- iQ team continued to work closely with the client and their chosen architect to develop a comprehensive space plan.
- Incorporating ergonomic principles into the workspace design, including the strategic placement of desks, monitors, and other equipment to ensure employee comfort and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues.
- The colour palette was chosen carefully to reflect the company’s brand identity while creating a visually appealing and inspiring environment.
- Additionally, we planned for the seamless integration of technology, which included installing flush-mounted mains power, USB modules, and wireless phone charging stations at over 100 desks.
The challenges
The project faced several challenges, including:
- Unforeseen delays in the construction of the new office building required us to adapt quickly and adjust our delivery schedule accordingly.
- Meeting the client’s specific requirements for shorter monitors and a unique colour scheme required close collaboration with an external architect.
- Despite these challenges, iQ team successfully delivered the project on time and within budget, ensuring the client’s complete satisfaction.
The results
The resulting workspace provides Chatham Financial with a modern, efficient, and inspiring environment that:
- Fosters a collaborative and engaging work environment that supports employee productivity and well-being.
- Provides employees with comfortable and ergonomic workstations, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal issues.
- Creates a visually appealing and inspiring workspace that reflects the company’s brand identity and strengthens company culture.
Products used in this project
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