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Behind the Design: Medical Protection Society
Author:
TSK
18
March 2025
4
min read
Organisations are rethinking how well their workplaces support modern ways of working. For the Medical Protection Society (MPS), shifting to a digital-first, hybrid work model meant their office no longer aligned with how their employees worked or engaged with members.
We partnered with MPS to rightsize their space in Leeds, realise their sublet potential and design an inviting, flexible environment. To unpack the thinking behind the transformation and its impact on both workplace experience and business operations, we spoke with TSK’s designers, Grant Dean and Shaun Hewitson.
Hospitality-inspired aesthetics are becoming more common in workplaces. How did you bring this influence into MPS’s space?
People want more from the office experience than ever before, and as workplace designers, we’re drawing from hospitality to meet those expectations. At MPS, that starts from the moment you walk into the building. The ground floor has two reception areas – one for MPS and one for tenants. This area feels more like an inviting hotel lobby than a traditional entrance.
That same warmth and attention to detail carries through the entire space. We used curated lighting and quality materials, and introduced a new social area that feels more like an informal café or bar than a traditional breakroom. The goal was to maintain a consistently high standard – just like in a great hotel. Whether you’re in a workspace, a meeting room or a social area, the experience feels cohesive and considered. It’s about designing a place where employees and tenants actually want to spend time.
The social area has a different look and feel from the rest of the building. What was the thinking behind that?
We wanted the social space to give people a true break from ‘work mode’. It’s intentionally more relaxed and playful. The shuffleboard was something the client fell in love with while visiting other offices, so we incorporated elements like this to make the space distinct.
The exposed ceiling, zingy green colours, artwork, and feature lighting set a more atmospheric mood compared to the rest of the workplace. But it still feels like a natural extension of the wider environment. We used the same colour palette in a bolder way, creating contrast while maintaining a strong visual connection to the rest of the space.
What factors influenced your choice of settings?
We combined workshops with data analysis to understand how MPS could best use their space. It became clear they only needed 35,000 sq ft for their own operations, allowing the remaining 40,000 sq ft to be transformed into a flexible, revenue-generating asset.
The new design is built around activity-based working, meaning employees can use spaces that best suit their tasks. Staff can choose between quiet pods, social nooks or high-energy areas depending on their needs. Moving communal spaces to the ground floor also gives tenants access to drop-in work areas, a business lounge and flexible meeting suites.
The entire space is designed to flex – for example, we used freestanding furniture, moveable meeting pods, and mobile planters. Larger meeting rooms have folding walls, which can adapt to different purposes, and there are clear break lines in the building for MPS to easily scale up or down. The office can evolve as the business does—without needing a major overhaul every time something changes.
Supporting well-being was a huge driver for MPS. How is that reflected in the design?
One of the best examples is the retreat area, which features banquette seating and touchdown areas surrounded by planting and soft textures. Off to the side, there’s a dedicated wellness room, as a place to step away and reset.
A large bay window floods this area with natural light, and by opening up the ceiling heights and using reflective finishes, we created an uplifting atmosphere. To bring in more of the outdoors, the retreat area opens onto a Juliet balcony—perfect for a breath of fresh air and a little extra headspace.
What role did sustainability play in the project?
The entire mechanical system was upgraded for energy efficiency, with a full strip-out and reinstallation of a new BMS system, LED lighting and improved insulation. By embedding sustainability into every decision, the building now holds an EPC Rating B and a BREEAM Excellent award.
For MPS, it wasn’t just about ticking boxes – it was about future-proofing the building and making sure it supports their long-term sustainability commitments. These upgrades improve efficiency while appealing to tenants looking for a greener, high-quality workplace.
What design choices made the space feel more inclusive and accessible?
MPS specifically asked for an environment that would enable their diverse workforce to realise their potential, so we worked with an external consultant to ensure the design met a wide range of needs.
Every meeting room allows full wheelchair access, and all kitchen islands and counter heights are designed for ease of use. We also introduced lighting controls for added comfort. Even the external environment was carefully considered, with adjusted pavements and repositioned entry points to make access smoother for everyone.
Is there a standout feature that you’re particularly proud of?
It would have to be the ceilings. Every area has a feature ceiling with integrated lighting, from dramatic pendant fixtures to subtle uplighting that enhances the sense of space. Lighting was a huge focus, not just for function but to add depth and interest.
There’s lighting everywhere – uplighting, wall lighting, suspended fixtures, and even illuminated shelving and planters. No detail was overlooked.
Meeting rooms are pre-programmed with adjustable lighting settings, from bright task lighting to softer, atmospheric options. This level of control is especially important for supporting neurodiverse needs.
What impact has this transformation had on MPS and its employees?
MPS employees are coming back to the office in greater numbers because the space is now so much more engaging and flexible. With settings that support both focused work and collaboration, hybrid working feels natural and easy.
Beyond that, the transformation has delivered real financial benefits. By designing high-quality, sublet-ready spaces, MPS has essentially become an ‘accidental landlord’, generating revenue from tenants while making smarter use of their own footprint.
But perhaps the biggest shift is the deepened connection to the space. The redesign has completely changed how employees see and use the office – connecting past, present and future in a way that strengthens culture and productivity.
Want to know more about MPS’s transformation project in Leeds? Read the full case study.
Download for free now
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Behind the Design: Medical Protection Society
Author:
TSK
18
March 2025
4
min read
Organisations are rethinking how well their workplaces support modern ways of working. For the Medical Protection Society (MPS), shifting to a digital-first, hybrid work model meant their office no longer aligned with how their employees worked or engaged with members.
We partnered with MPS to rightsize their space in Leeds, realise their sublet potential and design an inviting, flexible environment. To unpack the thinking behind the transformation and its impact on both workplace experience and business operations, we spoke with TSK’s designers, Grant Dean and Shaun Hewitson.
Hospitality-inspired aesthetics are becoming more common in workplaces. How did you bring this influence into MPS’s space?
People want more from the office experience than ever before, and as workplace designers, we’re drawing from hospitality to meet those expectations. At MPS, that starts from the moment you walk into the building. The ground floor has two reception areas – one for MPS and one for tenants. This area feels more like an inviting hotel lobby than a traditional entrance.
That same warmth and attention to detail carries through the entire space. We used curated lighting and quality materials, and introduced a new social area that feels more like an informal café or bar than a traditional breakroom. The goal was to maintain a consistently high standard – just like in a great hotel. Whether you’re in a workspace, a meeting room or a social area, the experience feels cohesive and considered. It’s about designing a place where employees and tenants actually want to spend time.
The social area has a different look and feel from the rest of the building. What was the thinking behind that?
We wanted the social space to give people a true break from ‘work mode’. It’s intentionally more relaxed and playful. The shuffleboard was something the client fell in love with while visiting other offices, so we incorporated elements like this to make the space distinct.
The exposed ceiling, zingy green colours, artwork, and feature lighting set a more atmospheric mood compared to the rest of the workplace. But it still feels like a natural extension of the wider environment. We used the same colour palette in a bolder way, creating contrast while maintaining a strong visual connection to the rest of the space.
What factors influenced your choice of settings?
We combined workshops with data analysis to understand how MPS could best use their space. It became clear they only needed 35,000 sq ft for their own operations, allowing the remaining 40,000 sq ft to be transformed into a flexible, revenue-generating asset.
The new design is built around activity-based working, meaning employees can use spaces that best suit their tasks. Staff can choose between quiet pods, social nooks or high-energy areas depending on their needs. Moving communal spaces to the ground floor also gives tenants access to drop-in work areas, a business lounge and flexible meeting suites.
The entire space is designed to flex – for example, we used freestanding furniture, moveable meeting pods, and mobile planters. Larger meeting rooms have folding walls, which can adapt to different purposes, and there are clear break lines in the building for MPS to easily scale up or down. The office can evolve as the business does—without needing a major overhaul every time something changes.
Supporting well-being was a huge driver for MPS. How is that reflected in the design?
One of the best examples is the retreat area, which features banquette seating and touchdown areas surrounded by planting and soft textures. Off to the side, there’s a dedicated wellness room, as a place to step away and reset.
A large bay window floods this area with natural light, and by opening up the ceiling heights and using reflective finishes, we created an uplifting atmosphere. To bring in more of the outdoors, the retreat area opens onto a Juliet balcony—perfect for a breath of fresh air and a little extra headspace.
What role did sustainability play in the project?
The entire mechanical system was upgraded for energy efficiency, with a full strip-out and reinstallation of a new BMS system, LED lighting and improved insulation. By embedding sustainability into every decision, the building now holds an EPC Rating B and a BREEAM Excellent award.
For MPS, it wasn’t just about ticking boxes – it was about future-proofing the building and making sure it supports their long-term sustainability commitments. These upgrades improve efficiency while appealing to tenants looking for a greener, high-quality workplace.
What design choices made the space feel more inclusive and accessible?
MPS specifically asked for an environment that would enable their diverse workforce to realise their potential, so we worked with an external consultant to ensure the design met a wide range of needs.
Every meeting room allows full wheelchair access, and all kitchen islands and counter heights are designed for ease of use. We also introduced lighting controls for added comfort. Even the external environment was carefully considered, with adjusted pavements and repositioned entry points to make access smoother for everyone.
Is there a standout feature that you’re particularly proud of?
It would have to be the ceilings. Every area has a feature ceiling with integrated lighting, from dramatic pendant fixtures to subtle uplighting that enhances the sense of space. Lighting was a huge focus, not just for function but to add depth and interest.
There’s lighting everywhere – uplighting, wall lighting, suspended fixtures, and even illuminated shelving and planters. No detail was overlooked.
Meeting rooms are pre-programmed with adjustable lighting settings, from bright task lighting to softer, atmospheric options. This level of control is especially important for supporting neurodiverse needs.
What impact has this transformation had on MPS and its employees?
MPS employees are coming back to the office in greater numbers because the space is now so much more engaging and flexible. With settings that support both focused work and collaboration, hybrid working feels natural and easy.
Beyond that, the transformation has delivered real financial benefits. By designing high-quality, sublet-ready spaces, MPS has essentially become an ‘accidental landlord’, generating revenue from tenants while making smarter use of their own footprint.
But perhaps the biggest shift is the deepened connection to the space. The redesign has completely changed how employees see and use the office – connecting past, present and future in a way that strengthens culture and productivity.
Want to know more about MPS’s transformation project in Leeds? Read the full case study.
Organisations are rethinking how well their workplaces support modern ways of working. For the Medical Protection Society (MPS), shifting to a digital-first, hybrid work model meant their office no longer aligned with how their employees worked or engaged with members.
We partnered with MPS to rightsize their space in Leeds, realise their sublet potential and design an inviting, flexible environment. To unpack the thinking behind the transformation and its impact on both workplace experience and business operations, we spoke with TSK’s designers, Grant Dean and Shaun Hewitson.
Hospitality-inspired aesthetics are becoming more common in workplaces. How did you bring this influence into MPS’s space?
People want more from the office experience than ever before, and as workplace designers, we’re drawing from hospitality to meet those expectations. At MPS, that starts from the moment you walk into the building. The ground floor has two reception areas – one for MPS and one for tenants. This area feels more like an inviting hotel lobby than a traditional entrance.
That same warmth and attention to detail carries through the entire space. We used curated lighting and quality materials, and introduced a new social area that feels more like an informal café or bar than a traditional breakroom. The goal was to maintain a consistently high standard – just like in a great hotel. Whether you’re in a workspace, a meeting room or a social area, the experience feels cohesive and considered. It’s about designing a place where employees and tenants actually want to spend time.
The social area has a different look and feel from the rest of the building. What was the thinking behind that?
We wanted the social space to give people a true break from ‘work mode’. It’s intentionally more relaxed and playful. The shuffleboard was something the client fell in love with while visiting other offices, so we incorporated elements like this to make the space distinct.
The exposed ceiling, zingy green colours, artwork, and feature lighting set a more atmospheric mood compared to the rest of the workplace. But it still feels like a natural extension of the wider environment. We used the same colour palette in a bolder way, creating contrast while maintaining a strong visual connection to the rest of the space.
What factors influenced your choice of settings?
We combined workshops with data analysis to understand how MPS could best use their space. It became clear they only needed 35,000 sq ft for their own operations, allowing the remaining 40,000 sq ft to be transformed into a flexible, revenue-generating asset.
The new design is built around activity-based working, meaning employees can use spaces that best suit their tasks. Staff can choose between quiet pods, social nooks or high-energy areas depending on their needs. Moving communal spaces to the ground floor also gives tenants access to drop-in work areas, a business lounge and flexible meeting suites.
The entire space is designed to flex – for example, we used freestanding furniture, moveable meeting pods, and mobile planters. Larger meeting rooms have folding walls, which can adapt to different purposes, and there are clear break lines in the building for MPS to easily scale up or down. The office can evolve as the business does—without needing a major overhaul every time something changes.
Supporting well-being was a huge driver for MPS. How is that reflected in the design?
One of the best examples is the retreat area, which features banquette seating and touchdown areas surrounded by planting and soft textures. Off to the side, there’s a dedicated wellness room, as a place to step away and reset.
A large bay window floods this area with natural light, and by opening up the ceiling heights and using reflective finishes, we created an uplifting atmosphere. To bring in more of the outdoors, the retreat area opens onto a Juliet balcony—perfect for a breath of fresh air and a little extra headspace.
What role did sustainability play in the project?
The entire mechanical system was upgraded for energy efficiency, with a full strip-out and reinstallation of a new BMS system, LED lighting and improved insulation. By embedding sustainability into every decision, the building now holds an EPC Rating B and a BREEAM Excellent award.
For MPS, it wasn’t just about ticking boxes – it was about future-proofing the building and making sure it supports their long-term sustainability commitments. These upgrades improve efficiency while appealing to tenants looking for a greener, high-quality workplace.
What design choices made the space feel more inclusive and accessible?
MPS specifically asked for an environment that would enable their diverse workforce to realise their potential, so we worked with an external consultant to ensure the design met a wide range of needs.
Every meeting room allows full wheelchair access, and all kitchen islands and counter heights are designed for ease of use. We also introduced lighting controls for added comfort. Even the external environment was carefully considered, with adjusted pavements and repositioned entry points to make access smoother for everyone.
Is there a standout feature that you’re particularly proud of?
It would have to be the ceilings. Every area has a feature ceiling with integrated lighting, from dramatic pendant fixtures to subtle uplighting that enhances the sense of space. Lighting was a huge focus, not just for function but to add depth and interest.
There’s lighting everywhere – uplighting, wall lighting, suspended fixtures, and even illuminated shelving and planters. No detail was overlooked.
Meeting rooms are pre-programmed with adjustable lighting settings, from bright task lighting to softer, atmospheric options. This level of control is especially important for supporting neurodiverse needs.
What impact has this transformation had on MPS and its employees?
MPS employees are coming back to the office in greater numbers because the space is now so much more engaging and flexible. With settings that support both focused work and collaboration, hybrid working feels natural and easy.
Beyond that, the transformation has delivered real financial benefits. By designing high-quality, sublet-ready spaces, MPS has essentially become an ‘accidental landlord’, generating revenue from tenants while making smarter use of their own footprint.
But perhaps the biggest shift is the deepened connection to the space. The redesign has completely changed how employees see and use the office – connecting past, present and future in a way that strengthens culture and productivity.
Want to know more about MPS’s transformation project in Leeds? Read the full case study.
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