Gleeds HQ

Gleeds new global headquarters were created around a clear ambition: to deliver a best-in-class workplace that supports a world-leading consultancy with clarity, practicality and people at its heart.

The relocation offered the opportunity to rethink working patterns and establish a space that better reflected the organisation’s values, while supporting modern flexible ways of working.

Set across multiple levels within the Berners & Wells development in Fitzrovia, the headquarters were designed to be intuitive and adaptable from the outset. The brief focused on flexibility, open-plan floors, and well-balanced private and breakout spaces, with a welcoming reception to immediately set the tone.

The aim was simple, support collaboration, improve communication and create a workplace that felt comfortable and purposeful for all.

Inclusivity shaped all early planning decisions. The entrance and ground floor were activated to establish energy on arrival and allow people to move through the building with ease. On the upper levels, the workplace was organised around adaptable open areas supported by focus rooms, quiet spaces, and enclosed meeting suites for confidentiality.

Wheelchair-friendly routes, adjustable-height desks and clear wayfinding ensures that the workspace was accessible to a wide range of users.

Acoustic zoning, quiet rooms and informal breakout spaces supports neuro-inclusivity and offered places to pause, reset and work in different modes throughout the day.

Material choices reinforced this sense of comfort and clarity.

The upper workspace uses a light, calming pallet to promote focus and productivity. As the building descends, the scheme become richer and more atmospheric. The lower-ground floor event space introduced a jazz-bar sensibility, with velvet upholstery and deep green and blue tones to create an intimate and luxurious setting for talks and client gatherings.

Across all levels, materials remained coordinated and considered, confident but never overly formal.

The fit-out approach prioritised sustainability from the outset. Low-impact materials were specified wherever possible, and energy-efficient systems were selected to minimise operational demand.

Circular design principles were incorporated to help extend the building’s material and functional lifespan, resulting in the project achieving a BREEM ‘Excellent’ rating.

The completed headquarters provide Gleeds with a modern, inclusive and highly adaptable workplace that supports different working styles, strengthens communication and enhances everyday experience for staff and visitors alike.

The clear organisation considered materiality and strong environmental performance come together to create a workplace that is functional, people-focused and designed for long-term value.