Northern Rail York case study

The Challenge

Formed two years ago, via the combination of Serco and Med Rail, Northern Rail is currently undergoing a series of relocations, refurbishments and upgrades to its existing facilities. In York, the challenge was to create a collaborative and friendly working environment for approximately 250 workers that were already housed in one of Northern Rail's existing facilities. Following feasibility studies carried out at this and two other properties, the decision to move was taken, based on financial factors and the need to inhabit a head office that better reflected the contemporary, yet familiar, image of the organisation. A 1960s office block was selected as the new premises, and Claremont worked in conjunction with the existing landlord to amend and minimise costs before delivering their unique tenant fit-out solution.

The solution

In addition to open plan spaces with new seating and benching, the new offices also feature seamless glass partitions and doors throughout, complete with bespoke branding. A series of 1.5metre long abstract canvases featuring commuters and railway station scenes were also installed, created from a number of photos taken by Claremont.

The result

Four floors of high-quality office space were handed over fully-furnished, air conditioned and with specially-commissioned artwork and graphic branding in place, just 12 weeks after the on-site start date. The updating of Northern Rail's branding and image was handled skilfully and sensitively, incorporating elements of change and tradition, as explained by designer Matt Holmes, of Claremont: "An important factor in developing the new facility was to challenge peoples' outdated views of a 'staid organisation' whilst creating something that was unmistakeably Northern Rail."