BACKGROUND

City Asset Management stands as a premier investment firm, renowned for its unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding service to its diverse clientele. With a team of 55 committed professionals based in their central office, the imperative to create a workspace that not only reflects the firm’s distinguished brand but also fosters a productive and innovative atmosphere was critical. Crafting a Refined Office Environment for City Asset Management

• Location: London, EC2N

• Company Size: 45 Staff

• Project Size: 7,200 Sqft

• Sector: Finance

• Duration: 8 weeks

PROJECT OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES 

As a prestigious investment management firm catering to private, charity, and corporate clients, City Asset Management embarked on a significant endeavour to relocate and revamp their office space. This initiative was carried out with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the new office environment mirrored the firm’s esteemed business ethos while enhancing creativity and the well-being of its staff.

Cityspace was charged with designing an office environment that embodied the sophisticated culture of City Asset Management. The goal was to forge a space that not only fosters creativity and teamwork among staff but also places a high priority on their well-being.

CHALLENGES AND EXPECTATIONS

The new office’s location presented unique challenges primarily due to its position on a lower ground floor. Limited natural light, available from only two sides of the building, posed significant design and environmental hurdles crucial to the project’s success.

RECOMMENDATIONS

In response to the challenges, the design strategy implemented by Cityspace prioritized maximizing natural light. Open-plan desking arrangements were strategically placed to ensure ample light for staff members throughout the day. To enhance this effect and create a welcoming atmosphere, the inclusion of natural planting and timber-effect flooring was pivotal, softening the workspace aesthetically and contributing to a positive work environment. 

A large, bright central reception area was created in the middle of the meeting rooms to provide focus from each room, distracting occupants from the lack of external windows. Additionally, external planting was added to soften the adjacent perimeter walls. 

PROJECT OUTCOMES

Reflecting City Asset Management’s status as a long-established investment firm, the redesign and relocation culminated in the creation of sophisticated and highly functional spaces. The striking new meeting room and reception suite now feature a spacious boardroom, equipped with an acoustic dividing wall and comprehensive AV facilities—all aligned with the firm’s ethos and commitment to excellence.

Through expert space planning and innovative design solutions, Cityspace successfully addressed the logistical and environmental challenges of the lower ground floor location. The project not only achieved but exceeded City Asset Management’s objectives, delivering a workspace that not only embodies their brand’s heritage and values but also promotes a culture of creativity, collaboration, and well-being among its staff.