Caunce O'Hara: Manchester

Caunce O’Hara is a Chartered Insurance Broker that provides insurance products predominantly to corporate clients. Since its formation in 1995 the company has achieved excellent growth and has now set ambitious expansion targets. A well-timed lease break allowed Caunce O’Hara to move to a higher profile location in the city centre, which will accommodate both the organisation’s ambition to grow and a more appropriate workspace. Claremont Group Interiors was appointed to complete the  interior design and fit-out package to create a welcoming space for clients and a contemporary working environment for the business.

Location: Manchester
Sector: Insurance
Project Size: 5,000 sq ft
Scope of Works: Design > Fit-out > Furniture > Audio-visual

The Brief
One of the reasons why Caunce O’Hara decided to move to 82 King Street was to provide additional space for growth. There was also a desire to have more appropriate client facilities and to provide a better working environment for the staff. The design scheme had to include the reception, meeting rooms, private office space for the Directors, a flexible open plan  environment for the staff and a number of breakout and informal meeting areas to encourage team work. The office space itself has terrific views across Manchester and it was important that the proposed scheme made the most of this feature. Claremont fulfilled all requirements of the brief and provided a convincing design for Caunce O’Hara.

The Solution
The warm timber tones of walnut panelling and feature lighting in the reception and client suite provide a welcoming touch for staff and visitors alike. The views across Manchester's skyline combined with the neutral palette increase the feeling of space. The colour palette and use of glass bring a bright and contemporary feel to the space. Claremont placed a number of bespoke graphics throughout the office that provide a reference to Caunce O’Hara’s own timeline, portraying their previous locations across the city. There is a well-designed refreshment area and a number of informal meeting spaces within the open plan area to support staff collaboration. The furniture selection is a combination of contemporary styles, including white bench style desking in the open plan space with walnut wall cladding and leather seating, bringing a more traditional feel to  the boardroom and Directors’ offices.

The Result
Claremont were responsible for completing the whole project, including the design and fit-out of the new office space for Caunce O’Hara’s 42 members of staff, the provision of all furniture, inclusive of desking, task chairs, storage,  soft seating and cafe furniture, and a sophisticated audio-visual solution in the boardroom. Bespoke manifestations featuring Manchester’s iconic buildings and land marks, emphasise the link of the company to the city. By minimising the cellular spaces and allowing light to flood the space, Claremont ensured to make the most of the office’s amazing view across the city, while at the same time creating a workspace that is more collaborative and enjoyed by all staff and clients. Claremont completed the project on time and in budget.