Bumble London HQ.

Bumble London HQ.

  • Size: 15,000 sq ft.
  • Location: West London
  • Type of Project: CAT ACAT B
  • Sector: Technology
  • Submarket: West End
  • Landlord / Tenant: Tenant

Client feedback

“Friendly, professional, super-organised, creative – 100% recommend” – Brondie McNamara

Programme

7 weeks design development.

15 weeks construction phase.

 

The Brief

Bumble wanted to create a space that was very much for the team.  Emotionally, Bumble wanted their staff to feel at home within their environment, the word “cosy” became the overarching guideline to the design brief and embodied everything they wanted their workspace to represent.

Aside from the aesthetics of the space, the building infrastructure was a highly important aspect to the project as their current set up simply did not meet Bumbles needs. The mechanical system was installed below the floor and presented at floor level, which heavily impacted the available footprint of the space, as well as creating a significant level of discomfort for the staff with constant air circulation below their desks.

Implementation:

Alongside the project team, Dthree went through a process of high-level consultation, advising Bumble on what was possible within the space, the benefits and disadvantages of the existing system, as well as the aesthetic impact of changing this.  The ultimate decision was made to extend the mechanical system from below the floor up to the ceiling, providing the space with a more even distribution of heating and cooling supply, whilst improving the day to day experience for the staff, as well as increasing the available footprint of the space.

The Dthree approach to delivery was very specific and sensitive to the ongoing needs of the business.  As the space was occupied during the construction, our key concerns revolved around time efficiency and noise levels.  Across the 15 weeks we created a four phase plan, starting with the required mechanical and infrastructure changes to the floorplate, which were implemented outside of business hours to avoid business disruptions. Dthree then moved onto the remaining aspects of the build, rotating around the floorplate space by space.  Our delivery team were very specific and transparent throughout the process, especially with regard to noise, which enabled the Bumble project team to set internal expectations.  Within our own delivery programme, we also included the Bumble event calendar, which we seamlessly adapted to and worked around, eliminating any impact to both the business operations and staff experience.

Results:

Staying closely connected to the guiding design principle, the cosy aesthetic rings true with every finish used in the space.  Across the floor there is ample opportunity for the team to “bespoke” their working area – with bookshelves, posters, picture frames, planters – allowing people to add small items which are personal to them in the same way you would in your own home.  We also worked very closely with the furniture team, specifying warm, inviting fabrics, finishes and rugs throughout to further enhance that cosy feeling throughout.

With a total focus on the staff, Bumble provide a high level of amenity areas and it was important that these were readily available across the floor.  Multiple teapoints offer refreshments, with a wide choice of drinks and food as well as healthy snacks readily on display.  There is also designated powder room, named after Marrakech, where staff can retreat for some well deserved ‘pamper time’ to have their haircut, their nails done or to get ready for an evening out. Ornate lighting, opulent fabrics and Moroccan inspired tiling bring this space to life.

As we all know, to feel at home, you must feel familiar with your space.  Ahead of completion and into the first few weeks of occupation the Dthree team were present and in attendance every day to introduce the staff to their new home.