Formula E

Creating a space that encourages people to collaborate and connect was central to the design, with the floor plan carefully considered to support different ways of working. Three distinct wings come together to create one expansive working environment, with senior management offices positioned just behind reception to remain separate from the main workspace while still feeling accessible.

Flexibility was key throughout the scheme. An oversized boardroom can be divided into two more intimate meeting spaces using a sliding wall, or opened up to create a large screening room complete with theatre-style seating and a projector screen. Across the wider workspace, breakout areas, touchdown spots, phone booths, small meeting spaces and relaxed working zones punctuate traditional desking, giving employees the freedom to choose the setting that best suits their task.

At the heart of the office sits a large breakout space adjacent to the central core. Designed as a social hub for the team, it provides a place to grab a coffee, catch up or hold an informal meeting, while racing simulators and a competitive staff leaderboard bring an element of fun. On race days, the space transforms into a place for those not trackside to follow the action, celebrate the wins and come together as a team.

Purposefully understated, the lighting throughout the space is specifically task-led. Albeit there are a couple of exceptions, where it illuminates Formula E’s standout trophy and the brand logo within the back-lit Perspex reception desk.

The ‘Dr Strangelove’ colour palette sets the mood using deep greys and purples next to the Formula E blue, which brings extra vibrancy. Beyond any doubt, the focal point of the office is the car that’s suspended from a compound curve wall and hurtles towards the entrance of the office. This car is the heart and soul of the racing series, so it’s only natural it becomes the main feature of the team’s headquarters too.

Sustainability is why Formula E races. Their commitment to combatting global warming and pioneering the adoption of cleaner technologies is nothing short of infectious. So it comes as no surprise that sustainability played a huge role in the design.

EGE Carpets, part of the Ecotrust collection, are fabricated from recycled water bottles and used fishing net yarn. The material used for the booths comes from Camira Fabrics, who use natural base fibre fabrics made from harvested nettles, hemp and recycled coffee sacks.

Incorporating faux leather into the furnishings was key to the client’s sustainability agenda. Bespoke items were outsourced by Tribe, such as the boardroom chairs made by a company in Germany. Thirdway’s creative team helped to incorporate the Formula E logo onto the eco-friendly fabric.