Hewlett Packard Enterprise

As a leading global technology company, HPE is renowned for its dedication to innovation and excellence. With a focus on developing transformative solutions and services, HPE assists businesses in navigating complex challenges and accelerating their digital transformation journeys. Operating on a global scale, HPE manages a network of Customer Innovation Centres across the world, each designed to exhibit its state-of-the-art technologies and cultivate collaborative environments for their customers and partners.

Our team was tasked with the exciting challenge of designing and developing the HPE Customer Innovation Centre, with the aim of creating an immersive space that not only showcase their technological expertise but also celebrates the unique cultural heritage of London. The brief emphasised the importance of creating an environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and engagement, serving as a dynamic showcase for HPE's cutting-edge solutions while also providing visitors with an unforgettable experience.

HPE’s innovation centres around the world are designed to reflect the unique characteristics and cultural essence of their geographic locations. For the London centre, we infused elements that evoke a quintessentially London experience, making the space both authentic and engaging for visitors.

Throughout the space, we incorporated subtle nods to London's culture and heritage. In the breakout area, red brick walls, synonymous with traditional London architecture, are paired with elements of a classic British pub, including a fully functional bar counter serving fresh beers. Downstairs, our collaboration with Framery resulted in the creation of bespoke phone booths designed to resemble a London tube train. The exterior mirrors the appearance of a train carriage from the London Underground, while the interior features the classic London tube map, contributing to the immersive atmosphere.

The colour palette was carefully chosen to enhance this sense of authenticity. Rich, deep tones are used throughout the space, complementing the traditional brick colours. This palette not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also ties together the various design elements, reinforcing the overall London theme and creating a cohesive and visually striking environment that embodies the spirit of the UK capital.

At the top of the spiral staircase leading downstairs, a real-life Maserati Formula E car commands attention. Visible from both the upper reception and lower levels, its elevated position adds a striking "wow" factor, catching the eye and becoming a central focus within the space. Visitors and clients cannot help but be drawn to it as they descend the stairs, their curiosity piqued by how it was mounted.

Incorporating the Maserati Formula E car presented a unique challenge for the team. To create the illusion of the car being mounted on the wall, we used durable rigging systems. Through meticulous planning and execution spanning four days, we ensured the car's secure installation. We carefully evaluated the wall's structural integrity and devised a strategic mounting strategy to ensure stability and safety. Our team meticulously coordinated every detail of the installation process, from positioning the rigging equipment to precisely hoisting and securing the car in its place.

As a B Corp certified company committed to sustainability and social responsibility, we took deliberate steps to minimise waste and maximise resource efficiency throughout the project. Despite undertaking a substantial refit, we retained much of the existing ceiling to reduce unnecessary demolition and preserve valuable materials. We organised a dedicated team to repurpose and redistribute the materials that wasn’t being reused, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The original bespoke handmade acoustic ruffles designed by Anne Kyyrö Quinn, were carefully returned to the designer, existing finishes in the hospitality section were retained, and large cupboards were repurposed to avoid waste.

We partnered with Community Response Project, a local West Brompton charity that supports the elderly by enhancing mobility, confidence, and independence through activities, and provides a safe, welcoming learning environment for children from diverse cultures.

Through this project, we were pleased to donate over 600m² of carpet tiles from the existing space to Community Response Project, enabling them to retile the flooring in their community centre. Several other items were also donated to the local YMCA.