A Bespoke Headquarters in London Fosters Connection + Community

Designed by dMFK Architects, a refurbished commercial space is now a bespoke headquarters for an investment firm in West London's Mayfair neighborhood.

Mar 26, 2025 - 17:13

A Bespoke Headquarters in London Fosters Connection + Community

Most traditional investment firm offices hardly exude a sense of warmth, but rather have a staid, buttoned-up aesthetic. A refurbished commercial space, designed by dMFK Architects, now fosters connection and community in a welcoming environment.

Located in London’s Mayfair neighborhood, the 6,500-square-foot headquarters is set within a heritage building. The base-build renovation, while high quality, had diluted some of the historic character. The architects were tasked with creating a range of distinct, separate areas that still encourage collaboration among all staff members. “We wanted to maintain the separation for the employees who work quite autonomously, but to also facilitate regular interaction between everyone,” says Joshua Scott, director at dMFK Architects.

The original split-level space has been subdivided into a range of smaller offices, working pods, and intimate meeting rooms. These areas flow into larger open-plan sections, which creates a circuit of connectivity. The arrangement supports any number of styles of work for the 50-person team. Staff members can come together in small groups for conversation or to brainstorm. They can also choose from quieter spots, ideal when privacy is needed.

Rich materials are layered to bring added depth to interiors, yet are still in harmony with the existing elements. “It was a deliberate choice to mix and match finishes and textures, just like you would find in a home,” notes Dagmar Heiman, associate at dMFK Architects. “It lends a softness to the overall space, which is in contrast to the streamlined but almost clinical office settings that we often see today.”

Light and dark stained woods, for example, are paired with natural stone or ceramic slabs. Ash flooring alongside oak joinery provides subtle variation. A neutral palette complements the client’s curated collection of artwork on display throughout the office. From sculptures to paintings with bold brushstrokes, the pieces add pops of vibrant color. They enliven every corner, offering moments of surprise as individuals move from one floor to another.

Furnishings, specifically selected or custom designed, contribute to the lived-in feel, and are made to fit rooms of varying sizes. A bespoke dining table rests at the heart of the hub, a central spot for employees to gather for shared meals or events. Even a sit-stand desk gets a sophisticated update in wood, developed in tandem with the client to reflect the elevated surroundings rather than detract from them.

The architects envision a headquarters that will evolve as the needs of the staff and leadership change. “There’s an authenticity and a tactility here that’s meant to last, and like a patina, we hope it will get better with age,” Scott adds.

For more information on dMFK Architects, visit dmfk.co.uk.

Photography by Ed Reeve.