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GKN Automotive

GKN Automotive7,500 sq ftWestminsterCAT B

From celebrating a 250-year-old legacy to showcasing commitment to the use of innovative technology, GKN Automotive’s new home was to be positioned as its global headquarters, where executives and global employees alike would travel to work.

GKN Automotive wanted a workspace that was not only visually impressive, but one that could inspire, energise and bring their culture to life.

Designed at a time when the way we work was rapidly evolving, collaboration and flexibility became central to the brief. Thirdway’s design team focused on creating a variety of spaces that would encourage people to come together naturally, whether to co-work, solve problems, share ideas or simply connect. The result is a workplace designed to adapt to the way teams work today, while supporting a more collaborative and connected culture.

    Future-proof Design

    The floorplan was designed around flexibility, with a multi-functional breakout space, dedicated work areas, an executive boardroom and meeting booths integrated into the corridors. Each booth is named after a Formula E race location, bringing GKN Automotive’s connection to the sport into the space.

    The design takes inspiration from the geometry of GKN’s engineering components, combined with the industrial feel of contemporary hotels and restaurants. The breakout space acts as the social heart of the workplace, with booth seating and oversized lounge chairs creating a flexible setting that can adapt from day to night. The kitchen follows the same industrial aesthetic, adding another relaxed social space.

    As the global headquarters, the executive boardroom was designed to feel elevated and support longer meetings, with a metal mesh feature wall inspired by raw engineering components and two recessed screens for presentations and virtual meetings.

    Exposed black ceilings, track lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows create a strong architectural identity while helping maximise natural light. Flexible working pods provide three spacious desks with privacy screens, while moveable walls allow meeting areas to be adapted when greater privacy is needed.

    Authentic Brand Integration

    From the very beginning, GKN Automotive were collaborative and forward-thinking. It was this mindset that sparked a great working relationship and allowed both teams to explore the beauty of engineering by looking at their pieces as more than just parts, but things to be amazed by. Thirdways Creative team produced innovative ideas aplenty that were flexed and moulded until we found what was truly fit for both the space and the client.

    The manifestations throughout the space heavily reflect their involvement with Formula-E races through the use of race tracks as design ideations, telling a story about their ties with racing legends. The mural in the breakout space takes centre stage, unearthing the beauty in the concept of engineering having manipulated both shapes and outlines from technical drawings of their own product lines to create blown up, abstract art.

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