London Offices - Daytrip.studio

As we re-evaluate working life in light of recent events, this project by Daytrip.studio is a timely exploration of the office; a reimagining of its possibilities in a contemporary context.

The project began in spring 2019 when a media company approached Daytrip to design their office spanning three floors of an 18th-century warehouse. The challenge was to create 'a bold and unique approach to workplace interiors' while preserving the inherent beauty of existing features such as its crittall windows and raw brick walls.

Daytrip's vision centres around a 'reinterpretation of strong feminine aesthetics'. Touchpoints for the design include Hollywood glamour, Californian clubhouses and 1950s kitchens. By subverting the traditionally 'masculine' sphere of the office into a more 'feminine' setting, the studio raise provocative questions about how concepts of gender influence the design of our environments, and in turn affect our behaviours within them.

The result is a visually exciting interior. Appearing at first harmonious, closer inspection reveals a delicate balance of styles, histories and textures. Lo-fi industrial materials such as plywood and passivated zinc deftly contrast with luxe high-gloss lacquers and opulent velvets. The daring colour palette offsets soft pastels and natural finishes with acid yellow and lipstick red.

The interior balances boldness with pragmatism, more than just a design statement, this is a profoundly functional setting. There is a mix of private and shared space to enable flexible working. Rooms feature ample shelving and storage for organisation and productivity. Centralised kitchens encourage communal moments and surfaces that are wipeable and pinnable are provided in shared spaces, helping foster creativity and innovation.

Viaduct is delighted to have assisted Daytrip.studio on the furniture selection for the project. The task was to help specify furniture, lighting and accessories that evoke a cinematic undertone while retaining contemporary look and feel. The uniqueness of the concept required particular consideration, and the resulting pieces chosen from brands such as Arflex, Cassina, e15 and Hay, provide an eclectic mix of contemporary and classic design references.

Daytrip.studio also required several bespoke and customised solutions for the project. We helped make Daytrip's unique sofa design a reality with the help of our trusted network of makers. We also worked closely with British design company Very, Good & Proper to provide an unusual interpretation of their Canteen desk series.

Daytrip.studio is an award-winning London based interior architecture and design studio founded by Iwan Halstead and Emily Potter. Previous projects include Oriole bar, boutique gym Blok, and Powerscroft Road.

Find out more about Daytrip.studio and their projects on their website: https://daytrip.studio/.

Photography credit: Mariell Lind Hansen