Rural Solutions

An office strategically designed to meet the needs of a post-pandemic workforce

The covid pandemic changed the landscape of work for many businesses, with a significant shift towards hybrid working; it also presented new challenges in terms of the mental and emotional needs of employees. Rural Solutions, a multi-disciplinary team of consultants, planners, architects and landscape Architects, approached Oliver Heath Design to analyse their existing office space and develop a design proposal which delivers on Rural Solutions diverse post-lockdown workplace needs.

Their main objectives were to: 

Welcome employees back to the office with a sense of excitement, and engagement, after a period of lockdown.

Provide cognitive and sensory workplace considerations which promote the health and wellbeing of staff

Create a new, multi-functional, and flexible working space that:

Aligns with their new weekly patterns – such as practicing a hybrid working model

Supports collaboration and cross-service line interactions
Offers a diverse mix of spaces and furniture to facilitate a range of tasks and activities
Represents the ethos of Rural Solutions; acting as a showcase to visitors and one that the staff will be proud of.

The redesign was so much more than just an exercise in aesthetics. The design catered for a greater diversity of spaces for people to work and interact in. The OHD team carefully selected timber wood panelling and soft furnishings, such as curtains and furniture, to improve acoustics throughout the open-plan office areas. What was once a palette of greys and whites, saw the introduction of stimulating greens and teals to enhance and boost individuals’ cognitive and sensory thresholds. Rugs were chosen to create a sense of place while also introducing nature-inspired textures that improved sensory experiences.

Process & Deliverables

Rural Solutions office is set across two different floors.  The project was split into two distinct phases.

Stage 1 - Analysis:  

Investigate 2 options around the creation of a collaborative zone and focused workspace

For both options investigate quality of usable space via:

Spatial zoning with key functions highlighted

Outline design layout suggestions

Circulation space vs useable space for activity

Number of functions in each option, demonstrated in both spaces and furniture

Quantify the m2 space for functions

Highlight the quality of space – i.e., access to views, natural light, acoustic issues, density of occupation

Stage 2 – Design and Specification:

A set of outlines and detailed drawings of the proposed space layout

Lighting, flooring, wall, and planting plans to share and develop with 3rd party consultants

Fit-out specification document to source products, materials, fixtures, and fittings.

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 Following a detailed assessment and analysis of their office, a set of tailored options for an entire refit was created. By breaking down the zoning of the office and assessing the sensory thresholds of each space, we could maximise both areas for focused and collaborative work. 

Each of our bespoke options offered Rural Solutions a varied approach to redesigning their offices – from a 133% increase in collaborative tables to a 50% increase in informal meeting rooms, we ensured that our spatial analysis covered a range of options to support their workforce.

“The office refurb has been a huge success! The team have created an inspiring and happy space that has encouraged the team back into the office. OHD were fantastic to work with, bringing amazing ideas - it’s been great to see these come alive.”

Chloe Elliott, Internal Operations Manager

Rural Solutions

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