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Challenge
To create a productive, versatile and inclusive workplace that caters to a diverse workforce.
Insight
We transformed Allianz’s traditional-style, multi-level office into a vibrant open-plan environment that supports collaboration, focus, and a sense of belonging.
Solution
An inspiring new office for Allianz with two prestigious sustainability accreditations.
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Allianz Insurance is committed to being a socially responsible business and ensuring every employee feels valued and empowered. Together, we transformed their Guildford Business Park office into a vibrant, productive and inclusive workplace.
Everybody counts…
This isn’t just a turn of phrase for Allianz. “Everybody counts” is a promise they intend to keep – and act on. Allianz set a precedent in Manchester and Milton Keynes, putting employee experience, inclusivity and sustainable choices at the heart of their workplace design.
This project had to uphold the same high standards and reflect their brand identity, while also celebrating everything that’s unique about their Guildford workforce.
Delivering on promises
Allianz has outlined its sustainability strategy and commitment to protecting the planet – taking action to conserve resources, minimise pollution and improve employee health and well-being.
In Manchester, they relocated to a building rated ‘excellent’ by BREEAM, and in Milton Keynes, they achieved Fitwel accreditation. We supported Allianz in their mission to set the bar high and aimed for two accreditations with their Guildford fit-out project.
Securing accreditation success
We partnered with a team of specialist assessors at Alphacello, who ran a pre-assessment to determine which accreditations Allianz should target and how to achieve them.
We learned the criteria for SKA-rated accreditation – which aims to improve the environmental outcomes related to office fit-outs – and Fitwel certification –which focuses on the well-being of its occupants and communities.
This information is filtered through to the whole supply chain, including any designers or subcontractors working on the project, so everyone is clear on what’s required. To keep on track – and identify opportunities to surpass expectations – these measures are regularly monitored through tools and on-site visits.
“It’s not very often that we see one person in charge of all the accreditations, but having Jamie, TSK’s Sustainability Director, managing the process kept everything organised and facilitated that communication.”
Jasmine Wilson, Sustainability Consultant at Alphacello
By engaging early and creating a clear strategy, Allianz gained the highest SKA rating available and is on track for Fitwel certification.
The detail is in the design
Inspiring a sense of belonging
This workplace needed to feel like Allianz’s home. We used textures and colours that complement the Allianz brand while bringing warmth to the space. We also incorporated custom lighting features on the walls, showcasing key messages that reflect their culture and values.
Catering to a diverse workforce
Every design decision was carefully considered with inclusion and diversity in mind. We installed automated doors and shower cubicles to make the environment accessible for all. And we broke up colours, textures and patterns for a sensory experience that supports a neurodiverse workforce.
Reuse and repurpose
We repurposed as much of the furniture as possible, to reduce the waste sent to landfill. Our approach was that if there was no reason to remove it, we wouldn’t. For example, we reused partition glass, doors, light fittings and carpet – even the moss wall was reconstructed!
Settings for every activity
Although Allianz wanted to incorporate more collaborative areas, it was important to provide enough desk spaces for process work.
By changing the layout, we transformed the traditional, multi-level workplace into an open-plan environment that maximises the space. This means there are now more versatile work settings, such as:
● Semi-enclosed spaces for informal conversation
● Phone booths and focused workspaces
● Social settings
● Meeting spaces, including rooms that accommodate larger gatherings
A productive environment
To prevent distractions – balancing connection with privacy – we added features such as:
● Bookcases integrated with acoustic panels
● Semi-transparent screens
● Metal rafts in the ceiling
● Planting
A workplace fit-out that raises the bar
Allianz is one of a few companies in the UK to have gained Gold SKA-rated certification. The following achievements were central to the project’s sustainability success:
This design and fit-out project has given Allianz’s staff a productive and versatile workplace that caters to a diverse workforce. Putting their people at the heart of the design, and making conscious decisions that align with their values, has enabled Allianz to create an exceptional workplace experience – and a space to be proud of.
We couldn’t be more proud of our new Guildford office. We have created a world class, destination office which is agile, flexible and accessible for all. As always I worked closely with the TSK design and delivery teams to ensure best results for our people and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Since completion, it’s been wonderful to watch how the office is used so organically, seeing our people reconnect, chat, catch up and collaborate in the open areas.
Andy Sheppard, UK Workplace Project Manager, Allianz
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