Folio Society
Creating a warm, sensory-aware workplace where books, creativity and people take centre stage.
The Folio Society wanted to transform its existing workplace from a space that felt corporate and tired into an environment that reflected the creativity, craft and quality of the brand.
The brief was to create a premium but welcoming workplace, with books and art forming the first impression. It also needed to work harder for the people using it, providing more opportunities for collaboration, focused work, informal interaction, creative development and privacy.
The Working Library
Rather than designing a conventional office, the concept brings together the qualities of a library, studio, gallery and social space.
A calm backdrop of natural materials, warm finishes, planting and layered lighting allows Folio's books, artwork and creative process to provide the colour, character and storytelling.
Books are treated as objects to be celebrated rather than simply stored, creating a workplace that feels distinctly Folio.
Visuals of concept design
Visuals of concept design
Designing for Experience
The sensory experience of the workplace was considered alongside its visual identity.
Rather than creating one consistent level of stimulation throughout, different areas offer different environmental qualities depending on what people are doing.
The entrance is light, calm and uncluttered, creating a moment to arrive before entering the workplace.
The library and boardroom use natural wood, softer seating and adjustable lighting to create a warmer, more focused environment, while still supporting conversation and collaboration.
The breakout space intentionally shifts towards a more energetic and social atmosphere, supporting informal meetings, eating, events and connection.
The studio becomes the most creative and stimulating area: open, visible and flexible, with materials, prototypes and works in progress becoming part of the experience of the space.
Together, these spaces create a range of sensory conditions rather than expecting one environment to work for everyone, all of the time.
Visuals of concept design
“We are absolutely loving our new space! I can’t believe what we managed to achieve in such a relatively short amount of time, and just how magnificent it looks.
There is such a buzz around the office now, and it’s been amazing to see how people are responding to the space. Ideas are already flooding in for how we can use it differently, from bringing people together day-to-day to hosting parties, events and other experiences.
It finally feels like we have an office that truly reflects who we are, our personality and where we are as a business. It’s a space we’re incredibly proud of and excited to share with people.”