BACKGROUND

Hitachi Rail Europe Ltd, a reputable leader within the transport sector, continues to make significant strides within the industry, boasting a workforce that exceeds a thousand. In alignment with its commitment to growth and development, Hitachi Rail undertook an ambitious venture — the relocation of their Holborn office, encompassing a hundred staff members. Having fostered a longstanding partnership since 2004, Cityspace was once again engaged to facilitate this strategic move. 

• Location: London, EC1N

• Company Size: 140 staff

• Project Scope: 15,000 sqft

• Industry: Transport

• Duration: 10 weeks

PROJECT OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES

In response to a burgeoning workforce, Hitachi Rail set forth an imperative to accommodate an immediate headcount increase while proactively addressing future expansions. Tasked with this brief, Cityspace responded with a strategic approach geared towards creating a conducive workspace that fosters collaboration and sustains the company’s dynamic momentum. 

CHALLENGES AND EXPECTATIONS

The rapid expansion of Hitachi Rail Europe positioned it at the forefront as a pre-eminent supplier in Europe’s railway system landscape. The challenge entrusted to Cityspace centered on remodeling a notably compact office locale into an inviting and pragmatic environment suitable for a growing team of professionals. In addition to fulfilling the immediate spatial needs, Cityspace sought to create a workspace that promotes productivity and encourages engagement.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Cityspace’s designers actualized an expansive open-plan office, integrating three staff refreshment zones designed to nurture both convenience and camaraderie amongst employees. Highlighting the project was the establishment of a technologically advanced 24-seat boardroom, fully equipped with AV/IT capabilities to facilitate seamless global communication. 

The conscious integration of Hitachi Rail’s brand palette throughout the new office was meticulously executed - from the flooring choices to the choice of reception materials and furniture, crafting an environment that resonates with and reinforces the corporate identity. 

PROJECT OUTCOMES

Cityspace’s solutions culminated in the conception and execution of an exclusive ‘front-of-house’ suite, carefully conceptualized to cater to Hitachi Rail’s confidential discussions with influential business partners such as Network Rail. Tailored to meet their specific needs, this space strikes a delicate balance between discretion and cutting-edge technology while upholding Hitachi’s brand.

The successful relocation and office redesign carried out by Cityspace underscore Hitachi Rail’s commitment to providing an environment conducive to productivity and professional growth. By leveraging its expertise in delivering high-caliber, solution-driven results, Cityspace reaffirmed its stance as a trustworthy and proficient partner in office design and management.