Universal Design Studio’s interiors for British Land’s Norton Folgate complex showcase a blend of modern workspace design and historic craft traditions in the heart of London.
The space feels like a boutique hotel.
Design rooted in local heritage
The newly opened Norton Folgate development sits between Spitalfields and Shoreditch, offering 31,123 square metres of office, co‑working and meeting spaces. Walk through the building and the colour palette, material mix and site‑specific art give the impression of a boutique hotel rather than a conventional office block. The studio worked with the existing architecture, inserting bespoke joinery that respects the building’s original features while optimizing each floor’s layout.
Related: Vipp Unveils Updated Swivel Chair Model
Materials such as sumptuous textiles, stainless‑steel panels and timber structures appear in layered detail. Workshops like Benchmark supplied custom furniture and joinery, reflecting a “circular and mindful creativity” that guided design choices, according to Carly Sweeney, director of Universal Design Studio.
Craftsmanship meets contemporary needs
Local artisans contributed pieces that reference the site’s past. London‑based weaver Lara Pain created textiles that echo the Huguenot silk weavers who once worked in the area, while hand‑carved meeting tables by Lewis Kemmenoe nod to the Arts and Crafts influence on the original architecture. These elements aim to differentiate the complex from the “sterile workplace environments” that have become common, Sweeney said.
“British Land didn’t always select the easy route,” Sweeney explained. “They understood the importance of creating spaces that were built to last and that could adapt to the needs of future tenants.” The emphasis on longevity and sustainability shaped the project’s ambition, with significant joinery pieces added as a new layer to the building’s fabric.
From a practical standpoint, the complex offers flexible workstations, dedicated phone booths, quiet nooks and a variety of meeting rooms. This range of options reflects a growing demand for adaptable environments that can serve diverse tenant requirements.
Related: Reasons to Hire Professional Services for HOA Management
In practice, the emphasis on craft and local talent means that employees and visitors encounter a space that feels lived‑in and purposeful, rather than a generic corporate shell. The tactile quality of the furnishings and the subtle references to historic trades create an atmosphere that can boost morale and create a sense of connection to the neighborhood.
Future‑focused design considerations
The studio’s human‑centred approach aligns with its reputation for blending craft with innovation. “The stories we have curated – some overt, some more discreet – are immensely satisfying for our team,” Sweeney said, adding that every detail, from artwork to coat hooks, was intentionally selected.
While the design team’s expertise drives the project, the result also honors the creative legacy of Spitalfields, a neighbourhood known for its artisans, sculptors and makers. The studio’s ability to draw on this rich history while delivering a modern, functional workplace demonstrates how heritage can coexist with contemporary demands.
