At Keppie, we approach every workplace project as an opportunity to challenge convention. Our recent interior refurbishment at the Spectrum Building is a testament to that belief – a space shaped by the shifting expectations of how we work, collaborate, and connect.
When we started this project, the brief was clear: create a commercial office that reflects the fluid, hybrid nature of contemporary work while putting wellbeing at the heart of the experience. We wanted to design something that didn’t just look great, but that also made people feel good whilst using the space.
Designing the interiors for the Spectrum Buildings new office suites reminded us exactly why we love what we do. It was more than just an office refurbishment – it was an opportunity to rethink how we work, how we interact, and what we need from the spaces we spend so much of our time in.
A Focus on Wellbeing
From the very beginning, we knew this space needed to feel calm, welcoming, and grounded. We leaned into natural textures, a soft and soothing palette, and biophilic elements to bring a sense of ease and connection to nature throughout.
Acoustics were also a key consideration, selecting specific furniture and finishes to create quiet, focused zones, balanced with open, collaborative spaces where people could move, meet, and connect. People don’t come into the office just to sit at a desk anymore. They come for the social interactions and crucial learning experiences you just can’t replicate at home.
Designing with a Hospitality Mindset
One of the most exciting parts of this project was embracing the concept of hybrid hospitality – a design philosophy that’s really taking hold in workplace interiors. It’s about bringing in those warm, inviting touches you’d expect to find in a hotel or café, and integrating them into a professional environment.
The Spectrum Building isn’t trying to be a traditional office. It’s designed to feel personal, comfortable, and flexible – without losing that sense of professionalism and purpose. It’s a space that invites people in and gives them a reason to stay.
Flexibility That Feels Intentional
When planning the space, we were intentional with the layout – each suite offers a mix of zones to support different ways of working. Quiet corners for deep focus, open lounges for casual catch-ups, and touchdown points for those less corporate conversations. The overall design focused on creating an experience, much like a hospitality venue that adapts to the user requirements. That’s what today’s workplace needs to be: agile, inclusive, and ready to adapt to whatever the future brings.
Looking Ahead
This project wasn’t just about creating a beautiful space. It was about helping to redefine what the workplace means. The Spectrum Building shows how thoughtful design can blend form and function, create a sense of belonging, and ultimately make the everyday experience of work more inspiring. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve created here and even more excited to see how people use the space.
Images courtesy of McAteer Photo.
Video courtesy of JLL.