Arval

Being their UK headquarters, Arval wanted to transform their traditional office environment into a modern workplace that would attract and retain talented staff. In addition, the design concept needed to connect staff, enhance communication and provide an agile working environment.

In order to truly understand Arval as a business, we worked with them for over a year prior to the project commencing. A feasibility study was carried out on one wing of their current floor plate, which effectively worked as a live case study to trial different materials, desking options and furniture choices. To ensure staff were engaged throughout the process, we conducted staff interviews and worked closely with a designated Arval steering group committee.

With Arval occupying space on all floors within the building, undertaking a full Cat A and Cat B refurbishment of the building required a well-conceived and implemented migration strategy, so Arval could remain in occupation throughout the project with minimal disruption.

Creating an agile workspace, the design incorporates a variety of work platforms, which have been creatively named to reflect Arval’s brand identity. The ‘Engine Bay’ workspaces, ‘Pit Stop’ breakout hubs, and ‘Cockpits’ – streets of offices and hubs, encourage a more flexible way of working. The ‘Refuel’ canteen underwent a complete refurbishment and also incorporates their brand identity, with the inclusion of seat belt screens and branded seating. To further accentuate Arval’s brand identity, tyre graphics have been applied to glass partitions and ceilings within the Cockpits and a bespoke toy car thumb print art installation takes pride of place in their new workplace. All furniture was provided by Area.

Carl Burne, Project Director at Area, commented, “Working together with Arval as a project partner was integral to the success of the project. Co-ordinating the works closely with Arval’s Project Lead and Facilities Manager ensured that the Cat A and B works ran smoothly. The client put full trust in our team to transform the dated environment into a modernised and collaborative workplace. Working closely with their branding and marketing team, we were able to create a workspace that is completely unique to Arval.”