Wiltshire Council Atrium Refresh

Sector: Public Sector

Location: South West

Project Background

After successfully completing the initial project 15 years ago, Elm Workspace was delighted to be invited back to refresh our client’s atrium area. Over time, the space had evolved, and while the original furniture had served remarkably well, the area now required a new approach. Indeed, the fact that the furniture located in such a high-traffic public space had lasted this long was a testament to its quality.

From the outset, both Wiltshire Council and Elm shared a commitment to sustainability. As a result, a key priority was not only to refresh the space but also to ensure that existing furniture was reused or repurposed wherever possible, either within the atrium itself or elsewhere across the council’s estate.

Client Objectives

As the atrium’s functionality had changed considerably since its original installation, the refreshed design needed to achieve several outcomes. Specifically, it had to:

• Support multiple uses, such as town hall–style meetings and exhibitions.
• Enable the space to be cleared quickly and efficiently when required.
• Encourage staff and the public to use the area for a variety of activities.
• Maintain or increase the available seating capacity.
• Deliver a refreshed, welcoming environment while maximising reuse of existing furniture.

Previously, reconfiguring the atrium was a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. Therefore, our design approach focused on creating a more adaptable, inclusive, and vibrant environment that would not only meet current needs but also anticipate future flexibility.

Our Approach

To deliver on these objectives, Elm’s design team collaborated closely with Wiltshire Council’s project team. Throughout the process, we combined a strong focus on functionality with a clear commitment to sustainability. The project followed several key stages:

1. Full inventory: First, we catalogued all existing furniture to assess which items could be reused or reupholstered.
2. End-user engagement: Next, we spent time in the space, speaking with staff and visitors. This step was essential, as it allowed us to gather valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the existing layout.
3. Design development: Building on this feedback, we then developed multiple space plans and product specifications. These were accompanied by 3D visuals and walkthroughs, ensuring the client could fully visualise potential solutions.
4. Sustainable reuse: Finally, the original modular sofas were reupholstered to align with the refreshed scheme. This not only extended their already impressive lifespan but also generated significant cost savings for the council.

Key Design Features

• Flexible furniture: By introducing lightweight, reconfigurable solutions, the space can now be adapted quickly to suit a wide range of functions.
• Bespoke waste & service unit: In addition, our team designed and installed a mobile, multi-purpose unit. Specifically, this incorporated:
  • Six discreetly housed bin chutes.
  • A cutlery and condiment station.
  • The client’s existing tray unit.
  • A large open bin section at the rear.
    Consequently, waste provision remained practical while no longer being a visual distraction.

Outcome

Ultimately, the result is a vibrant, inclusive, and multifunctional atrium that has been given a new lease of life. The refreshed design now welcomes both staff and the public, creating a space that can be enjoyed in many different ways. For instance, people can:

• Stop by for a coffee and cake.
• Catch up with colleagues or friends.
• Use the area for studying or working away from their desks.
• Attend larger events such as exhibitions or town hall–style meetings.

Furthermore, the new layout ensures improved accessibility, with generous circulation space provided for wheelchair users and pushchairs. At the same time, the upgraded servery continues to deliver high-quality food and drink, further enhancing the overall experience.

Project Impact

• Extended lifespan: Original furniture reused after 15 years of service.
• Sustainability: Significant waste reduction and cost savings achieved through reupholstery and repurposing.
• Flexibility: The space can now be reconfigured quickly for multiple functions.
• Inclusivity: Improved accessibility ensures the area is welcoming to all.
• Vibrancy: A modern, welcoming environment that encourages greater engagement.

https://www.elmworkspace.com/services/office-design-space-planning/

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