ADT Workplace has created a new workplace for international law firm, Womble Bond Dickinson, in Leeds city centre. Opting to remain at its existing location, WBD has taken just under 13,000 sq.ft on the 6th floor at 1 Whitehall Riverside, an unrivalled Grade A office building boasting a commanding presence in the West End district of the city.

The space also offers the very best working environment thanks to its leading ESG credentials and unbeatable location, both of which will support WBD in attracting and retaining the very best talent.

The vision

Having re-evaluated its office design requirements post-pandemic the company was looking to refurbish its existing space to create a more agile and collaborative workplace environment, with improved wellbeing facilities for its 110-strong Leeds team. Creating a sustainable workplace fit for the future which would match the ambitions of WBD’s market-leading Carbon Reduction Plan was also a key consideration.

The transformation

The revamped office design supports WBD’s hybrid working model by allowing people to work where and how they like, but also relax and recharge when needed, ultimately improving overall productivity and efficiency. Promoting agile working, the space incorporates contemporary workplace settings, including traditional desks, quiet pods, stand up collaboration tables, and informal and formal meeting rooms, as well as a breakout and refreshment area where people can take time out of their day and socialise with colleagues. Equipped with the latest technology and interactive meeting spaces the new environment will improve communication for people based across the company’s multiple locations as well as with clients.

A stunning reception featuring a striking mirrored wall, which incorporates informal and comfortable meeting areas as well as access to a variety of private meeting rooms, welcomes people into the workplace. Moving glass partitions separating the meeting rooms from the main reception have been cleverly incorporated to allow WBD to open up the space to create a large multi-functional events area which the company can use to host internal and external events.

Careful consideration was applied at all stages to ensure that the project was delivered as sustainably as possible. Existing furniture was recycled and re-used where possible, with all other materials and new furniture specified from accredited sustainable suppliers. The floor-to-ceiling windows create an abundance of natural light and a spacious working environment, with intelligent lighting used to provide additional lighting where and when necessary. Updates to air conditioning were also incorporated to reduce energy usage and further support WBD in delivering against its sustainability targets.

Stacey Charlesworth, Design Director at ADT Workplace commented: “We were delighted to partner with WBD to help design and deliver its new workplace. By working in close partnership with the team throughout the project, we were able to truly understand the ethos of the business and needs of its people. As such, the result is an inspiring and unique environment which is tailored to the organisation’s requirements and importantly, supports the health and wellbeing of is people as well as helps WBD deliver its carbon reduction plan.”