APA Architects creates dynamic ‘CoLab’ workspaces for Barclaycard in Northampton, England, fostering agile working and team collaboration through flexible design and natural materials.
Contents
Agile Working Embodied: The CoLab Concept
Barclaycard, a leading credit card company, sought to enhance its work environment to better support agile methodologies. APA Architects, a London-based studio known for its innovative workplace designs, responded with the ‘CoLab’ concept. This series of collaborative workspaces in Northampton, England, is designed to facilitate focused, dynamic teamwork within a 30-day sprint framework. Each CoLab provides a dedicated area for small teams to work on specific projects, fostering a sense of ownership and promoting a results-oriented approach.
Transforming the Existing: A Sustainable Approach
The CoLab project involved a 10-week transformation of Barclaycard’s existing office space. APA Architects adopted a sustainable approach, repurposing existing furniture and removing old carpets to minimize waste and environmental impact. This conscious effort aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices within the design industry and demonstrates Barclaycard’s commitment to corporate responsibility.
Materiality and Flexibility: Defining the Workspace
The design of the CoLab spaces centers around a ‘pure and robust’ aesthetic, achieved through the use of natural materials and flexible furniture. Wooden structures and metal frames create partitions that define individual workspaces and team areas, offering a balance between privacy and collaboration. Modular tables made from natural wood and MDF allow for easy reconfiguration, adapting to the evolving needs of each project team. This adaptability ensures the workspace remains dynamic and responsive to the fluid nature of agile working.
Enhancing the Environment: Light, Greenery, and Visual Reminders
APA Architects prioritized the wellbeing of Barclaycard employees by incorporating elements that enhance the work environment. Natural light floods the CoLab spaces, promoting a sense of openness and connection to the outside world. Greenery is strategically placed throughout the workspaces, adding a touch of nature and contributing to a more calming and productive atmosphere. Vintage clocks from around the world adorn the walls, serving as visual reminders of time and deadlines, adding a playful yet functional element to the design.
Project Information:
Architect: APA Architects
Location: Northampton, England
Photography: APA Architects
