In search of an office space that reflected its brand values, the Hermes head office, Leeds, underwent a total refurbishment in 2021. Aiming to offer more than a generic office space to its team, Hermes partnered with Officeinsight to create an exciting place for people to be and work in. From the outset, Officeinsight and Hermes were aligned with the importance of the reception area, as it immediately impacts visitors’ perceptions upon their arrival.

Officeinsight set about designing a reception desk that symbolised Hermes head office’s exciting rebrand, with two criteria to fulfil. Firstly, to create an entirely bespoke piece with curves and varying edges using a solid surface. Secondly, to ensure this piece withstood the test of time and looked as unique and high-quality in the future.

Officeinsight enlisted the support of CDUK to advise on the statement reception desk centrepiece. As a leading supplier of surface materials in the UK and Ireland, CDUK used its expertise to recommend the most suitable products to specify and the best fabricators to work with. Multi-Surface Fabrications stood out in the tendering process, not just as a supplier, but as a partner in the wider team behind the new Hermes office.

George Dunbar, Director at Officeinsight, said: “This head office redesign was an exciting but challenging project to be tasked with. Started before the pandemic, the design was revisited at the 11th hour to cater to the demands of the new way of working. Our supply chain was crucial to the success of the project and we would like to thank all the partners who were involved in the journey. The outcome is nothing short of outstanding!”

CDUK advised using Corian® Solid Surface to deliver stand-out performance and longevity, as well as custom joinery to create an extraordinary design. Functionality was also a fundamental requirement, and the completed desk includes an integrated heating system and laptop storage. Hermes opted for Corian® Solid Surface in Deep Nocturne and Glacier White to reflect the bold colour scheme and LED lighting, while pulling focus on a unique lighting installation featuring the Hermes parcel journey. The end result was a perfect welcome for employees and guests into the new, contemporary head office.