Transforming Amundi’s once divided space into one of culture cohesion and flexibility.

Amundi came to AIS for a complete overhaul of their relocated 27,000 sq ft workplace after their recent merger. Their previous divided business units were dated, and they wanted to transform the space into an opportunity for culture cohesion and developing social interactions. AIS created a space which embodied the key considerations of flexibility, collaboration and autonomy.

As a global player that offers services around the world, AIS created a modern, functional, technology led design concept creating a new look for Amundi’s European hub in London. Amundi are an asset management company providing a complete range of products and services covering the full investment universe. The new space was designed to breakdown the formality between staff and clients to offer a welcome experience.

Upon exiting the lift, guests and staff are met with an impressive reception area with back lit marble features. AIS created a comfortable client waiting area adjacent to this to create an open and welcoming front of house space.

Client meeting rooms are formed of curved glazing and track lighting which follows a curvaceous framework. This creates an impressive client journey which takes them onto the multi-functional events room. The space which houses a substantial AV and technology set up features three bifold doors allowing the space to transform to accommodate a more seminar style layout with the capacity to hold up to 130 people or divided into smaller rooms to host more intimate presentations.

As well as creating space suitable for client presentations and meetings, AIS also designed a more formal client dining and entertainment zone. Connecting with the main staff canteen area, this allows the in-house hospitality to easily service client catering.

The staff canteen and adjacent breakout space spills out onto a spacious outdoor balcony area which gives staff easy access to the outdoors to use as a break-out space, with the added bonus of being able to enjoy the views over Moorgate and across the square mile.

An internal staircase connects the 4th and 5th floors creating a link between teams who are usually kept separate due to job function. With the aim to transform the interaction between staff, this connection between the two tea points on either floor encourages movement around the office to take a break away from your workstation.

Dispersing from these tea points AIS designed pockets of space recessed into internal walls. These booths feel intimate and private enough to take a quiet break away from the daily grind and secluded enough to hold a quick informal meeting.

During the design development process of this project the pandemic was developing. As a result, AIS worked pro-actively with the Amundi team to incorporate future proof solutions to account for the changing needs in the workplace whilst maintaining the overall project programme and budget.

Project: Amundi
Location: London, United Kingdom
Design Studio: AIS
Photo Credit: AIS
Website: ais-interiors.com