Fasthosts
When Fasthosts set out to create a new headquarters at The Forum, Gloucester’s landmark development, they needed more than just a fit-out. They needed a space that would bring their 250-person team together for the first time, foster better collaboration, and reflect their future-focused vision. That’s where Area stepped in.
Selected to deliver the full CAT B fit-out, we partnered with Fasthosts to design and build a workspace that was not only modern and dynamic but also sustainable and adaptable to their evolving needs.
Client
Fasthosts
Services
Office Design, Construction
Size
21,500 sq ft
Location
Gloucester, UK
Fasthosts’ Next Chapter
Fasthosts’ previous office was no longer suitable for its growing workforce, and The Forum presented an ideal solution: a Net-Zero-Carbon building designed with energy efficiency and sustainability at its core. Located just outside Gloucester’s main train station, it was the perfect location to support Fasthosts growth and provide employees with a comfortable, sustainable, and well-connected workplace. The building’s amenities and its commitment to sustainability aligned perfectly with Fasthosts’ values and aspirations for a forward-thinking, innovative workspace.
Our Approach
The building’s unique shape presented some challenges in terms of maximising the available space, but we strategically positioned workspaces to take advantage of natural light. We designed a flexible open-plan layout with efficient use of space, ensuring that the core areas of the office – including meeting rooms, collaborative spaces, and quiet zones – were all easily accessible.
But an office isn’t just about where you work; it’s about how you connect. To create a sense of community and encourage interaction between teams, we divided the office into distinct neighbourhoods, each with their own tea points and breakout areas, and we strategically placed a large kitchen and multiple coffee stations throughout the space, offering employees hubs for socialising and informal meetings.
Design Features and Materials
Area worked closely with Fasthosts to create a workspace that reflects the company’s brand and culture while maintaining a modern, professional aesthetic. The design incorporates pops of Fasthosts’ signature blue in key areas, bringing a sense of energy and identity, while neutral tones were used throughout the office to create a calming, versatile environment.
The open-plan layout encourages flexibility and collaboration, with multiple meeting rooms, dedicated quiet spaces, and collaborative zones designed to support various working styles. The ground floor provides a multifunctional space where employees can grab a coffee, connect with colleagues, or host informal meetings, While the top floor offers executive spaces and a large breakout area for team collaboration and socialising.
As part of the United Internet group, Fasthosts shares its innovative spirit with the Ionos brand, which is also represented in the space.
Sustainability at the Core
Fasthosts’ dedication to sustainability played a central role throughout the design and construction process. The Forum, with its cutting-edge sustainability features, turned out to be the perfect fit. The building itself is Net-Zero-Carbon, with energy-efficient systems such as Air Source Heat Pumps, motion-sensor lighting, and natural ventilation. As a B Corp-certified company, Area is committed to meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. This ethos guided every design decision, ensuring that Fasthosts’ new office not only aligned with their sustainability goals but also fostered a vibrant and inspiring workplace.