First Sentier Investors, London

Anchorpoint were initially appointed by First Sentier Investors to assist them preparing the workplace environment for a return post COVID. Early in this process, we recognised that many employees valued the flexibility of working from home, and maintaining this option was important for retention. At the same time, we also observed that face-to-face collaboration, learning, and networking opportunities are important for existing and new team members. In response, Anchorpoint worked closely with the First Sentier Investors management team to engage their employees through questionnaires, workshops, and design presentations. Employees informed and influenced the design direction and purpose of the office to form a business case. A new staircase was installed at the centre of the floorplan, linking the office floors and landing into a shared social space designed to bring different teams together. The focal point of the space is a double height living wall. This large biophilic feature influenced the colour palette for the space and our focus on sustainable material and furniture specifications throughout the interior. The result is an environmentally efficient office focussed on employee wellbeing, with improved meeting and social spaces, shared height adjustable desking and collaborative areas that encourage engagement.