National Trust

Teaming up with interior design consultancy Wylde IA, we were brought in to help the National Trust transform their Swindon HQ, and later their London HQ, into flexible-working environments that reflect the Trust’s ethos throughout.

Both spaces required a refit that echoed the National Trust’s conservation efforts, focusing the projects around sustainability and the environment. The Trust needed spaces that accommodated collaboration, meetings, as well as quiet spaces, so that all physical and neurodiverse needs were met; Their mantra being ‘everyone welcome’.

We worked closely with Wylde IA to ensure the colours chosen chosen for these two fit outs were in keeping with the National Trust’s existing brand identity. In doing so, a soft and earthy palette of dusky pinks, blues, and greens can be seen throughout. Using this palette, we carefully selected our materials and finishes, finding complimentary solutions that would highlight sustainability efforts.

Sustainability

In the interest of sustainability, our ALTO materials were a logical choice. Being formed from 60% recycled PET, the equivalent of 280 waste plastic bottles, choosing to use ALTO meant that a portion of each project directly diverted plastic away from landfill. ALTO was used in a range of ways across both locations, including Float, Vert, Form and Stone. 

ALTO Tex

Most prominently, ALTO Tex was used as a key design element for both offices. Large-format images from the National Trust’s extensive database were printed onto acoustic fabric walling, and installed as feature walls. This was an incredibly effective way to introduce acoustic sound absorption across all open and closed spaces to improve acoustic performance and overall comfort, as well as establishing a connection to the National Trust’s mission, the wider organisation, and the places it cares for. Each feature image was specifically chosen to represent the vast array of locations protected by the National Trust, including historic properties, woodlands, and coastal landscapes.

ALTO Tex provided the opportunity for us to use another sustainable material. The fabrics chosen included a range from Camira Quest, which is formed entirely of post-consumer recycled polyester. Camera Quest includes 75% SEAQUAL yarn, which is produced using plastic bottles that have been collected from oceans and rivers. Another fabric range was sourced from Moon, which is a British woollen mill that works with a sustainable material, and focuses efforts on energy efficient manufacturing, as well as responsible waste disposal and recycling.

In a continued effort to reduce both environmental impact and budget, the National Trust requested that their spaces were reimagined and fine-tuned, rather than replaced. With much of the furniture and fittings being repurposed, we were commissioned to rethink the existing London reception desk, and use environmentally friendly materials to tie in the new aesthetic. Using a combination of ALTO Form and ALTO x Stone, we were able to clad the original desk structure to give it an entirely new appearance, as well as adding acoustic properties. 

Both the National Trust’s London and Swindon HQs have a cohesive and earthy palette, with seamlessly integrated acoustic solutions throughout. Each office has a variety of working spaces, suitable for all physical and neurodiverse requirements. Acoustic treatments, alongside a tranquil palette and natural landscapes, create a calm and inspiring space, showcasing the environmental and conservation efforts of the National Trust.