Commercial

Deep client understanding

K2 managed the fit-out of 16,000 ft2 of new office space in the heart of Manchester. The client brief required a thorough understanding of JTI’s end users, therefore K2 gained a strong grasp of the client’s culture, employee’s aspirations, and methods of working. All to ensure the client brief and the staff’s needs were met.

Through a recursive feedback loop with the end users, a mix of open plan and partitioned spaces were prioritised – workstations, circulation areas, meeting rooms, kitchen, breakout spaces and ancillary areas.

Robust project management

K2 delivered an outstanding project, delighting the client. Cat A and cat B works were completed within 14 weeks and delivered within budget. This was achieved thanks to the client bringing K2 to the project at an early stage, enabling us to work with TSK to fast-track the concept design. Robust project management and stakeholder management procedures were implemented from the start.

Sustainability and wellbeing first

The design brief required an environment for the users to perform, collaborate and innovate. As such, the fit-out needed to be unique and elegant, highly functional, simple/minimalistic, and eco-friendly. This was met by delivering an open plan office with partitioned meeting spaces, break out spaces with a ‘Zen Zone’ incorporating plant and greenery for peace of mind and relaxation. Workstations with adjustable height desks were provided, as well as an open kitchen with several seating options.

The brief was also met by maximising the use of natural light for employees working in the office – the control system includes daylight dimming and in meeting rooms where there is an element of AV, there are options for different scene settings aiding presentations. The fresh air supply was fully used to offer the best environment for the users.

The project received a SKA Gold rating for meeting energy use and carbon emission targets, and 90% of building material was recycled and diverted from landfill during fit out.

A Leesman survey found that the new office environment provided a boost in employee morale, boosting staff productivity and improving retention rates.