New HQ for The Utility Warehouse
Area Sq has commenced the internal and external refurbishment of Merit House – a 12 storey 127,000 sq ft office block on Edgware Road in Colindale.
The outdated 1960’s office block, recently purchased by The Utility Warehouse, will be transformed into a glass-clad, state-of-the-art flagship building for the company as their UK headquarters.
“Merit House aims not just to redefine itself, but also lead the way in quality architectural design for the entire redevelopment programme along Edgware Road. It is not just about designing a beautiful building, but also about creating a landmark and standard for the area.” says Gary Chandler, Managing Director of Area Sq Regions.
Dan Callegari, Creative Director at Area Sq says: “We have created a main reception in the West Tower which will be extended forward and up through the first floor to create a stunning double storey atrium”.
Wellbeing for staff and guests is paramount with excellent facilities being provided throughout this vast building, creating an impressive visitor experience. Healthy eating and time away from your desk will be encouraged via a main canteen kitchen, deli bar, coffee bars, quiet zones, relaxation and work lounges. All these facilities have been designed to support the staff demands throughout the extended working hours of a busy call centre environment as well as increase collaboration and communication. Staff are also encouraged to embrace an active lifestyle with bike storage and shower facilities.
A major piece of work on the project will be a third floor extension which will create an open plan break out area featuring Wagamama-style benches and private booths set against a stunning feature wall. This area will be used as a multi-functional space for company ‘town square’ all staff meetings, film nights and social evenings. A new staircase will also be installed to connect different floors and improve the flow of the building.
In addition to open plan workstation areas for their call centre and support staff, the building will also house executive meeting rooms and an extensive training suite with adjoining kitchen facilities and adjacent breakout lounge.
The refurbishment programme commenced in November 2013 and will be complete in Spring 2015.
