Revamping the old and incorporating the new

Taking a dated workspace and utilising existing features, whilst injecting a new lease of life into the space with clever ideas.

Vision:

Tandem Property and Hollis approached us to develop a design for Lingfield House, a multi-tenant working facility in Darlington, to bring it up to date in terms of aesthetic and functionality. 

Delivery:

The existing reception area suffered from an uninspiring design, featuring a resin floor typically found in domestic driveways and a lackluster feature entrance. The first-floor corridor and breakout area were also outdated and in need of both aesthetic and functional improvements. While visual appeal was important, our primary goal was to create an environment that would encourage greater usage and enhance the experience for existing tenants.

To elevate the reception area, we focused on enhancing the existing architecture while keeping interventions minimal. A sophisticated concrete-effect LVT replaced the outdated flooring, bringing a sleek and modern touch. We introduced timber paneling with integrated moss to refresh the former feature wall, adding warmth and a natural element to the space. Additionally, improved lighting design—complemented by simple, decorative ceiling-mounted fixtures—helped highlight the ornate architectural details that give the space its character.

The first-floor corridor posed a unique challenge due to its long and narrow proportions. A key element of the redesign was celebrating the building’s heritage as a former wool factory, which inspired the ‘Yarn’ feature. To enhance its presence while maintaining a dynamic journey through the space, we introduced a panelled effect created through carefully executed paint detailing, skillfully applied by Ultimate Commercial Interiors, who also provided the project’s furniture and fit-out.

Each office suite entrance was framed with a ‘goalpost-style’ structure, internally illuminated with warm LED lighting to add depth and drama. The flooring was also strategically designed, incorporating a contrasting burnt amber stripe at each office entrance, visually breaking up the corridor into distinct sections and reinforcing wayfinding.

Positioned just off the corridor, the breakout space was redesigned to complement the new aesthetic. We retained the established color palette and significantly improved both lighting and upholstery, ensuring the space felt both functional and inviting. The result was a refreshed environment that not only looked exceptional but also encouraged tenants to utilize the space more frequently.

This transformation successfully balanced aesthetics with practicality, breathing new life into a once-tired space while respecting the building’s architectural integrity and historical significance.