United Utilities Plc case study

The challenge

Having disposed of their existing building in Warrington, United Utilities Plc wished to move to the main campus site at Lingley Mere. Claremont were invited to prepare a design bid to carry out the feasibility study and planning proposals and were then appointed as planning consultants and interior designers. At the outset, two alternative buildings were considered to provide suitable accommodation. Philip Green, the new Chief Executive required a smart, warm but efficient environment as benefits a top 100 Company in the Utility Sector. The brief indicated that the workplace should support the aspirations of a culture of excellence and performance and create an immediate impression of a customer and people-focused business. For operational reasons, Haweswater House was selected as the new home for the organisation; intentionally designed as an open plan building. The new occupants, however, require some cellular space; support meeting rooms and conference/training rooms; storage facilities; break-out areas; print areas (service pods) and a new access point including a dedicated Group Plc reception area.

The solution

A key feature of the scheme is the provision of different, effective and creative ways of dividing space between Companies, Directorates and Sections. The benefits of the predominantly open plan space include good communications and openness, not withstanding requirements for some cellular space and enclosed work areas for sensitive functions, for example, the "Dealer Room" in the Treasury Section of Group Finance and Salaries/Wages/Pensions administrative areas.

To provide a suitable customer journey, a new entrance and reception has been established. Boardroom and executive facilities are provided on the first floor with 'the kitchen table' providing the heart of the home. A more open plan setting is provided on the ground floor, both floors contain relaxed interactive meeting spaces around the atrium or 'village green'.

Philip Green, the new Chief Executive comments,

'It has been a considerable project to move part of the Group Corporate team from their long-standing base at Lingley Mere, and I have been impressed with the way the project has been managed and delighted with the design of the offices.'

You can see more images of the United Utilities re-design by clicking here