HFW, a prominent law firm, recognised that their office was stuck in the past. The traditional, enclosed layout no longer fits their evolving business needs or their commitment to employee-centricity. The challenge was to unlock the true potential of their workplace, prioritising the Employee Experience Quotient (EXQ) and fostering wellness, well-being, and work flexibility.

This meant attracting the industry's finest talent, retaining their remarkable existing team, and weaving the essence of HFW's brand and culture into their work environment. The goal for Space Matrix? A workplace that inspires, energises, and propels HFW to new heights.

In collaboration with HFW, Space Matrix applied Design Thinking principles to craft a transformative workplace solution. Departing from conventional law office layouts, we introduced a modern, minimalistic, and open work environment, leveraging the unique building architecture.

Arrival Experience: The 'Workspitality' theme came to life in the arrival lounge. Warm tones, natural materials, and finishes fostered a welcoming atmosphere. Textures and colors subtly reflected the diverse industries HFW serves, enhancing the Client Experience. The front-of-house (FOH) exuded a lounge-like vibe, featuring a work cafe accessible to both employees and clients for both formal and informal discussions. An extraordinary reception counter seamlessly extended to the work cafe, serving as a bar counter, optimising space utilisation.

Flexibility Takes Center Stage: Flexibility was intricately woven into the workplace, catering to the diverse conversational needs of employees and guests. The area offered a spectrum of options, from impromptu bar-counter chats to lounge discussions, one-on-one booth meetings, and expandable formal meeting rooms.

Collaboration Unchained: Traditional closed spaces gave way to a new era of collaboration. Reconfigurable furniture and integrated technology in private offices facilitated seamless collaboration. Informal breakaway spaces met HFW's mobility needs, allowing work from any location while staying connected. Alternate work settings organically amplified collaboration and conversations, ensuring purposeful and efficient space usage.

Multifunctionality: Dedicated rooms and phone booths were meticulously designed for brainstorming sessions and focused work. Cutting-edge technology aligned with the firm's tech-driven reality, supporting various work settings—from formal meetings and quick catch-ups to team collaboration and seamless virtual interactions. Thirty percent of the floorplate embodied the 'Workspitality' experience, offering employees multiple choices and opportunities to work as they pleased, without compromising space.

A Sanctuary for the Mind: The pièce de résistance was the Contemplative Space, nestled alongside the Work Hall. It provided employees with a sanctuary to escape, unwind, and recharge. This multi-functional space, offering breathtaking city views, was dedicated solely to their well-being. It served as a haven for relaxation, coffee chats, library reading, and even yoga sessions, encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

HFW's workplace transformation resulted in new levels of client and employee experience. The modern office design empowered lawyers with increased flexibility and productivity. Informal breakaway spaces and collaboration zones facilitated chance encounters and spontaneous collaboration, while smaller groups found better-suited spaces for meetings and virtual work, enhancing efficiency and communication.

Overall, the office design transformation improved client and employee engagement, fostering a dynamic environment that supported the evolving nature of legal practice at HFW.