CBS News

CBS News had been based in its Chiswick office since the early 2000s. Although the space had served its purpose well for many years, it had become clear that the office was outdated and no longer fit for the dynamic demands of today’s professional environment. The workspace felt aged and disconnected from the current trends shaping the future of work. Recognising the urgency for a redesign, CBS News partnered with Area to overhaul the office, aligning it with modern standards and the company's global strategy.

The most significant shift for CBS News was embracing a fresh, forward-thinking approach to office layout and functionality. The network needed a space that better reflected its global strategy while promoting collaboration and flexibility. This meant moving away from the previous design, which was largely dominated by private offices, to a fully open-plan workspace. The original setup, with individual offices for nearly all employees, had created barriers to communication and teamwork.

The new open-plan design, aimed at encouraging collaboration, fostering communication, and enhancing flexibility, features only a few enclosed spaces that can be booked for meetings and used by team members who require privacy. By aligning their office with the needs of modern teams, CBS News demonstrates a commitment to creating a more fluid and creative working environment.

One of the major improvements of our design was addressing the lack of natural light. In the previous layout, private offices were located in areas with the best access to sunlight, leaving communal areas dim. We repositioned the remaining enclosed spaces to maximise light distribution throughout the entire office. This has completely transformed the workspace, giving it a bright, open feel that feels energising and inviting. Now, every corner of the office benefits from the abundant natural light, making the office a more enjoyable and productive place to work.

Despite downsizing, the new office feels more spacious. The open-plan layout, combined with flexible meeting spaces and a large communal area, makes the space feel larger and more functional than ever.

At the heart of the workspace is the broadcasting area, an essential element for CBS News that has remained unchanged. Recognising its importance to CBS's daily operations, we retained its original structure while enhancing its functionality with acoustic curtain treatments. These can be drawn during live broadcasts, ensuring minimal noise and maintaining high-quality on-air reporting.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a new open reception area. Previously, the reception desk was located too close to the office entrance, making it feel cramped and uninviting. The transformation of this space has made the reception feel open, bright, and welcoming, significantly enhancing the first impression for both visitors and staff. It flows seamlessly into the rest of the office, creating a sense of openness and accessibility.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of larger communal spaces, where people can gather informally or take a break away from their desks. A large communal teapoint has been strategically placed as a central hub where employees can meet, interact, and recharge. Whether it’s an early-morning coffee break or a late-night chat, employees now have a comfortable, relaxed area to socialise or step away from their desks. This new breakout space has become a focal point of the office, fostering a stronger sense of community and enhancing the overall work culture.

The design of the new office subtly integrates CBS’s branding without being overt or overpowering. From the custom joinery to the carefully crafted shapes used throughout the space, there are subtle nods to the CBS brand, including the iconic circular logo reflected in the architectural details. The overall colour palette, featuring cool blues and natural tones, creates a sophisticated yet welcoming environment.