BASF UK HQ, Stockport
Delivering an activity based work environment for a leading chemical company

We were selected in March 2019 to support BASF in the relocation of their UK HQ from Cheadle Hulme to levels 4 and 5 of Stockport Exchange 2 in central Stockport. The brief was to deliver a welcoming, calming, homely and engaging environment that supports agile and collaborative working for 200+ people. We undertook staff engagement and visionary sessions to help identify the interior narrative and allow staff to be involved in the design process. Working collaboratively with the strategic workspace consultants, we used the data to help establish the detailed brief, space requirements and a desk sharing ratio of 0.5:1 across the scheme.

The design supports the outputs from staff engagement sessions and is based on a neutral and homely palette which incorporates splashes of bright colours within feature walls and furniture to add an individual identity and vibrancy to the space. A new central feature staircase connects the two floors to further encourage both collaboration and staff interaction. The project also includes a range of settings from library settings to a games corner, with areas for both individual and team-based working. Level 5 features a large board room and event space which opens out onto a terrace, allowing the opportunity for meetings, collaboration and private conversations in the fresh air. The terrace also adjoins the open plan café and games area to encourage staff interaction with the outdoor space.

BASF are one of the largest chemical producers in the world that provide a wide range of materials to most industries in the UK. In order to create a personal and responsive space, which explores the very nature of BASF, we selected materials that contain BASF raw materials within the interior finishes. With support from our graphic design team, we have also designed signage and features wall that showcases both the company values and their products. The design reflects the outputs from staff engagement sessions and is based on a neutral and homely palette, incorporating splashes of bright colours within feature walls and furniture to add an individual identity and vibrancy to the space.

BASF are committed to supporting regeneration of Stockport Town Centre with their move to Stockport Exchange 2. The scheme completed on site in early November 2020.