In the first of our series of stories about the building, we focus on the interior design of the buildings’ entrance. This modern, light space is fill with lots of leafy green plants and key furniture pieces.
Emily Penrose Design, the company responsible for the work, are known for creating stylish and inviting spaces which take influence from a variety of eras and styles.
The company was started by Founder and Creative Director Emily Penrose. Emily has spent 10 years developing her skills and working for a variety of high-profile clients across the UK, specialising in both commercial and residential creative interiors.
We spoke to Emily about working on 3 Barrington Road and her approach to delivering this super sustainable, eco-inspired space…
Where did you get the inspiration for 3 Barrington Road?
“We wanted the project to have excellent eco credentials with an emphasis on biophilia, we looked at introducing lots of planting to the entrance reception. We decided to combine the greenery with natural materials and varied textures through the use of concrete flooring, painted brick, warm woods and steel.
As Altrincham is a rapidly developing, creative neighbourhood, we felt it was only right to push the design of this building forward with bold, contemporary colours and furniture choices to offer the local market a vibrant base from which to grow their businesses.”
What colours, fabrics and materials will be big in 2020?
“Sustainability will continue to be a big focus in 2020 with emphasis on innovative materials which minimise impact on the environment. For example, some of the furniture we used at 3 Barrington Road was produced by Sixteen 3, made from recycled plastic and bamboo which can be broken down into fully recyclable parts.”
How do you select key pieces for new schemes?
“I like to use a mix of established, quality designers but also incorporating less well-known brands working with unusual materials and processes. Each project is completely different though, so it’s all about tailoring your selections to the specific brief and local market.”
The company was started by Founder and Creative Director Emily Penrose. Emily has spent 10 years developing her skills and working for a variety of high-profile clients across the UK, specialising in both commercial and residential creative interiors.
We spoke to Emily about working on 3 Barrington Road and her approach to delivering this super sustainable, eco-inspired space…
Where did you get the inspiration for 3 Barrington Road?
“We wanted the project to have excellent eco credentials with an emphasis on biophilia, we looked at introducing lots of planting to the entrance reception. We decided to combine the greenery with natural materials and varied textures through the use of concrete flooring, painted brick, warm woods and steel.
As Altrincham is a rapidly developing, creative neighbourhood, we felt it was only right to push the design of this building forward with bold, contemporary colours and furniture choices to offer the local market a vibrant base from which to grow their businesses.”
What colours, fabrics and materials will be big in 2020?
“Sustainability will continue to be a big focus in 2020 with emphasis on innovative materials which minimise impact on the environment. For example, some of the furniture we used at 3 Barrington Road was produced by Sixteen 3, made from recycled plastic and bamboo which can be broken down into fully recyclable parts.”
How do you select key pieces for new schemes?
“I like to use a mix of established, quality designers but also incorporating less well-known brands working with unusual materials and processes. Each project is completely different though, so it’s all about tailoring your selections to the specific brief and local market.”
What’s your favourite design feature at 3 Barrington Road?
“The large format black and white terrazzo giving the small toilets a flash of design kudos. At the same time championing a new, up and coming design company, Altrock, which are just around the corner from our studio in East London in an old railway arch.”
What would be your advice for creating a well-designed space to someone moving into a new office in 2020?
“There has been increased recognition that there is not ‘a one size fits all’ way that people like to work, especially seen in the rise of flexible working. Some people flourish in large open plan, noisy, collaborative spaces and other personalities need private corners in order to focus, be creative and recharge their energy. I think we need to factor different personalities and working styles more actively into the office design of the future in order to ensure happy, productive workforces. "
How can someone make their workspace more inspiring?
“Be ambitious with colours and finishes. It’s inspiring to work somewhere that doesn't feel like a traditional corporate space and has a sense of fun and personality. Inject atmosphere with lots of different lighting styles, artwork, textiles and greenery.”
Emily and her team have certainly created an inspiring and dramatic entrance to 3 Barrington Road. The building completes in January, so if you’re looking for new office space, get in touch and we can arrange a visit.