The challenge
A leading European market infrastructure provider sought to enhance the workplace experience at its Paris headquarters to better support evolving staff needs and new ways of working. The new environment had to embody the organisation’s values of excellence, openness, agility and user-focused service.
The client commissioned us to assess the potential of the current workspace through an in-depth workplace study. The insights gathered became the foundation for reimagining the future office, guiding our role as both strategic designers and change managers.
The outcome
A re-envisioned workplace that delivers a premium experience for users of its services, encouraging agile collaboration and nurturing authentic human connections. Following a comprehensive staff consultation and a robust change-management process, and guided by a smart design strategy centred on clarity, user control, and efficiency, the result is a dynamic and inclusive environment that supports engagement, wellbeing, and productivity.
Across its diverse atmospheres, the workspace embodies the firm’s global values while incorporating subtle local references that add warmth and character. Timeless architectural heritage inspired by Paris’ neoclassical identity, is combined with contemporary workplace solutions and seamlessly integrated technology to create a high-performing setting aligned with the institution’s role within Europe’s financial ecosystem.
100 days after moving in, staff rated their satisfaction with the renewed work experience at 94/100. Almost unanimously 98% agreed that the workplace improvements enable employees to work more effectively, while 87% acknowledged a reinforced sense of belonging to the organisation as a result of the renovation. The space not only elevates the overall workplace experience through the seamless integration of hybrid technologies and flexwork, but also reinforces organisational culture, with a positive uplift confirmed by the post-occupancy survey.
Discovery
To create a more effective and supportive workplace, we conducted an analysis and staff consultations to assess existing conditions and explore future opportunities.
Drawing on employee surveys, focus groups, observation studies, and visioning workshops with both Paris-based and visiting staff, we developed a clear understanding of the current workplace experience, evolving needs, and aspirations.
These insights shaped a design vision focused on:
- Creating a calm and confident identity that reflects the institution’s values of stability, transparency, agility, and excellence.
- Designing a high-performing, inclusive environment enhancing collaboration, social interaction and flexible ways of working.
- Providing clarity and user control, allowing staff to navigate and personalise their work experience.
- Honouring Paris’s classical elegance and cultural vibrancy while subtly reflecting the institution’s pan-European, country-neutral vision.
Ideation & design
Capturing the soul of Paris in every detail
Inspired by the timeless charm of Paris and the elegance of the Parc Monceau district in which the project is located, the design creates a calm and confident identity through refined materials, organic rhythms, and architectural clarity.
Throughout the space, a refined palette of textures, materials, and soft tones reflect elegance and attention to detail. Locally sourced sustainable materials, woven surfaces, rhythmic wall treatments, and textured flooring subtly reference the city’s heritage, architecture, and street life, while touches of blue introduce a contemporary accent and a subtle integration of the corporate visual identity.
Look & feel
Rhythm and modularity shape the design, balancing focused work areas with collaborative zones through a thoughtful mix of open and enclosed spaces that support both privacy and meaningful human connection.
The entrance reimagines the traditional arrival experience through a calm, refined atmosphere that creates an immediate sense of belonging. Local staff, colleagues from other offices, and stakeholders are all welcomed alike, making everyone feel part of the team rather than like guests.
The cafeteria is the heart of the space, a social hub for informal encounters capturing the lively spirit of the city. Layered textures, a balanced palette, and carefully considered furniture details evoke the warmth and timeless character of a classic Parisian bistro.
Maximising performance with dynamic workstations
A mix of individual workspaces, collaborative areas, and enclosed meeting rooms creates a high-functioning, inclusive environment. Order, proportion, light, and playful elements are expressed through clean, confident gestures that enhance both function and aesthetics.
The thoughtful integration of cutting-edge technology with cradle-to-cradle materials and European-made furniture minimises the project’s carbon footprint while enhancing users’ comfort and wellbeing. A flexible desk management app and integrated screens within the furniture and architecture, create a responsive and healthy work environment.
The large board room ensures confidentiality at the highest level for the frequent stakeholder sessions. Recycled wood panels and other warm, tactile materials improve acoustics while creating a private, inviting setting for focused discussions.
A signature wayfinding approach
The signage is inspired by the typography and structure of Parisian street signs and traditional wood engraving techniques, adding depth and detail. It is refined for today’s workplace through clean lines and clear, highly legible lettering.
Supporting new ways of working
In parallel to the planning of the workplace, we conducted a structured change management process to guide future users through the transition into the new setting. From information sessions and the designation of change champions to the introduction of table talkers and office etiquette guidelines, the programme supported adoption, understanding, and alignment with the new ways of working.
Conclusion
By prioritising clarity, user control, and the nuances of contemporary ecosystems, the design creates a purpose-driven workplace that supports productivity, collaboration, inclusion, and motivation.
The blend of function and aesthetics creates an efficient, user-focused environment aligned with the client’s identity. The renewed space led to a marked increase in workplace satisfaction, with employees especially valuing the natural light, the variety of flexible work settings, and the Social Hub as a key driver of wellbeing and community.
