MoreySmith celebrates coca-cola heritage at UK headquarters in london

MoreySmith celebrates coca-cola heritage at UK headquarters in london
photo by gilbert mccarragher

the new ‘coca-cola headquarters’ for the UK, designed by architect MoreySmith, celebrates the company’s deep heritage while also recognizing the brand’s ambition for the future. located in london, the project sees the reuse of an edwardian baroque style building dating back to the early 1900s. a central wall cuts through the three-storey height of the structure, and displays coca-cola memorabilia in order to pay tribute to its legacy and create a sense of identity. open spaces and cafés promote a team-based work environment, providing areas for staff and visitors to gather, collaborate, and socialize. the arrangement also encourages stair usage, which further prompts interaction.

open areas with large tables allow staff to gather and collaborate
photo by gilbert mccarragher

the design attempts to create an enjoyable and comfortable work experience for employees. various open spaces with tables scattered throughout encourage collaboration for business and socialization. included in this is a 4,000 sq. ft. roof terrace providing views to the city context. the large outdoor area contains a living wall, barbecue accommodations, apple trees and a wild meadow.

the reuse maintains much of the building’s industrial legacy, such as the ceiling tiles in the café
image courtesy of MoreySmith

upon entry, a comet shaped artwork is suspended from the second floor, occupying a double height void that links the reception area and café. designed by stuart haygarth, the work is composed of over 30,000 pieces of acrylic and is illuminated by LEDs.

 a double-height space connects the café to the entry
photo by gilbert mccarragher

the entry area contains a comet-like installation hung from above
photo by gilbert mccarragher

photo by acrylicize/nikhilesh haval

memorabilia is displayed within a central wall to provide a brand identity for the headquarters
photo by acrylicize/nikhilesh haval

the main staircase passes by the ‘heritage wall’
(left): photo by gilbert mccarragher
(right): photo by acrylicize/nikhilesh haval

the display wall features color-changing LED screens, covered by 5,000 coca-cola bottles
photo by acrylicize/nikhilesh haval

a 4,000 sq. ft. roof terrace provides an outdoor place for gathering and potential social events
photo by gilbert mccarragher

project info:

location: london, uk
client: coca-cola
completed: may 2014
project managers & workplace strategy: CBRE
workplace design: linda morey-smith, moreysmith
mechanical & electrical engineers: medland metropolis
quantity surveyors: core five
contractor: BW interiors
structural engineers: price and myers
art installation: stuart haygarth
coca-cola feature wall: acrylicize
specialist timber fabricator / manufacturer & reclaim specialist: white & white
creator of 3D felt-clad quiet room: selina rose
photography: gilbert mccarragher, acrylicize/nikhilesh haval