Man Group - Fire Pit
Located on the Thames, Man Group’s Riverbank Place Office is the perfect example of putting words into action.
As an international investment management company, Man Group are committed to responsible business practices and this commitment also involves providing employees with an outstanding work environment to not only boost productivity but also minimise their operational environmental impact.
The Initial Brief
With this in mind, the client desired an immersive breakout space, which provided a soft, campfire experience that could also perform a multi-functional purpose, including hosting meetings and teambuilding sessions.
The Design
A fully-functioning firepit is obviously not a typical office feature, but Project Manager Jenny Pape worked closely with both our client team and our in-house designers and created a hugely impressive feature.
The finished item houses banquette seating measuring 5.4m by 4.8m, and this custom seating structure was constructed from MDF fixtures arranged in 10 radial segments to create the base, followed by the addition of vertical MDF strips and solid timber posts to support the framework.
In collaboration with Kvadrat, fire-safe upholstery was utilised to ensure safety for the indoor fire pit without sacrificing comfort.
The Finer Details
The stand-alone fire pit features an aesthetically pleasing chimney extractor positioned directly above the fire which is accented by custom LED lighting around the chimney to enhance the space’s brightness. The fire is fuelled by bioethanol, a natural ethanol derived from the fermented sugar and starch components of plant by-products which, unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces, produces no smoke, soot, or ash, making it a healthier alternative for employees. Artificial coals are used to replicate the appearance of real coal, reducing waste while maintaining visual appeal.
Overall, the project was a significant challenge, taking 16 weeks from the initial drawing to final installation. We are delighted to have worked alongside Overbury & Perkins + Will, prioritising environmental responsibility and the well-being of their employees. We are incredibly proud of the final product, a real testament of what a collaborative approach can achieve.
Read the full Man Group Case Study here.