Skip to contentSkip to footer

John Laing

John Laing8,000 sq ftCovent GardenCAT B

After more than a decade at its previous headquarters, John Laing’s move to the iconic Space House marks a significant new chapter. The new HQ brings together rich heritage with a forward-looking space designed to support its future ambitions.

Rather than treating the relocation as simply a change of address, the brief centred on creating a workplace that embodied the evolution of the business. John Laing wanted employees and visitors to feel that "walking into Space House feels like stepping into the future of today", while remaining deeply connected to the company's history and values.

The resulting design is rooted in a people-first philosophy, placing collaboration, wellbeing and everyday experience at the heart of the workplace. Inspired by the warmth and comfort of the hospitality sector, the office moves away from the traditional corporate aesthetic of its previous space in favour of an environment that feels welcoming, relaxed and residential.

    Inspired by the building

    The architectural character of Space House played a defining role in shaping the design. Its exposed services, concrete structure and industrial materiality provided a striking backdrop, but also introduced the challenge of creating warmth within an inherently robust setting. Rather than competing with the building's architecture, we embraced its character. Carefully layered materials, softer finishes and refined detailing complement the existing fabric. The result is a workplace that celebrates the building's original identity while creating a more intimate and comfortable environment for its occupants.

    We wanted an inspiring space that would support our culture and encourage collaboration and creative thinking. Thirdway understood our vision from the start. They listened carefully to our needs and created a workspace that reflects who we are as a business, with a level of design and attention to detail that makes our teams excited to be in the office.

    Karolin ScottOperations Lead, John Laing