When WITTENSTEIN high integrity systems (WHIS) set out to relocate its Bristol operations, the goal was clear: move away from a fragmented, outdated workspace and create a modern environment that reflects its engineering expertise and supports future growth.
Partnering with Area, the project marked a significant step change for the business – bringing teams together under one roof and introducing a workplace designed for collaboration, wellbeing and performance.
Previously spread across multiple buildings, WHIS needed a workplace that would bring its people together and support better collaboration. The new 11,000 sq ft office consolidates the team into a single, cohesive space, designed to evolve alongside the business.
The workplace has been planned to support growth from day one, accommodating 60 desks initially, with capacity to scale up to 110 as the team expands.
From the outset, the ambition was to create an environment that felt completely different – open, connected and representative of the company’s forward-thinking approach.
Inspired by the WHIS brand, the design uses terracotta tones and deep blues to create a warm, professional feel. Subtle curves – echoing the company’s visual identity – are integrated throughout the space, from architectural details to joinery and finishes.
A dedicated front-of-house area provides a welcoming experience for visitors, including a separate entrance for clients and guests. This space also supports podcasting and marketing activity, reflecting the company’s growing external presence.
The new office has been designed around a variety of work settings, giving employees choice and flexibility throughout the day. Open-plan workstations encourage connection, while a central breakout space supports town halls and larger team gatherings. Alongside this, a range of collaborative zones enables informal working and knowledge sharing.
To balance this, quieter areas have been integrated, including focus pods and dedicated rooms for concentration. A wellness room further supports employee wellbeing, offering a space to step away when needed.
A dedicated lab space allows WHIS engineering teams to carry out testing and development on site.
Planting is used throughout to soften the space and improve overall wellbeing, while reinforcing a connection to nature.
Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the project. The building itself achieves a BREEAM Excellent rating, providing a strong foundation for environmentally responsible design.
The completed project also achieved SKA Gold certification, recognising the project’s strong sustainability credentials and considered material choices.
We worked closely with the client to incorporate sustainable materials and strategies, including the reuse of existing desks from the previous office and the introduction of furniture with recycled content. Shelving has been created from repurposed materials, while carpet tiles from the Tarkett Desso Recharge and Retrace ranges support a more circular approach to design.
Together, these choices reduce environmental impact while maintaining a high-quality, considered finish across the space.
The new Bristol office represents a major transformation for WHIS, moving from a disconnected, traditional setup to a modern, agile workplace.
It not only supports current ways of working but provides the flexibility and infrastructure needed for future growth, innovation and collaboration.