Interior specialists Thirdway have completed the repositioning of One Smart’s Place, a striking corner site in London’s Covent Garden, delivering a project that aims to reset expectations for what a CAT A+ workspace can be. Working with client Baumont Real Estate, the studio carried out a full refurbishment of the reception, a complete fit-out of the ground floor, and the creation of ‘The Press,’ a 3,000 square foot business lounge for flexible work and collaboration.
The design draws on the language of exclusive members’ clubs rather than that of corporate offices, prioritising material richness and atmosphere. The reception sets the tone with dark woods, bamboo matting, and a front desk clad in Kit Kat Barn Red tiles, a bold backdrop to layered planting and natural textures. Both sophisticated and contemporary, it immediately established the building’s character.
Inside ‘The Press,’ Thirdway amplify the hospitality aesthetic with banquette seating in bold striped fabrics, herringbone brickwork in Argilla tiles, and exposed ceiling services painted deep burgundy. Rich tones of scarlet and rust run throughout, punctuated by luxurious woods and layered finishes that move the space away from the safe minimalism of conventional office design. The effect is immersive, comfortable, and distinctive.
Flexibility underpins the concept. Movable partitions enable spaces to expand or contract, while foldable tables and stackable seating allow occupiers to configure the lounge for group collaboration, private focus, or informal meetings. Alongside the lounge, 16 open plan workstations, smaller private nooks, and varied meeting areas combine to create a workplace that responds to shifting modes of use.
Speaking about the project, Sophie Smith, creative at Thirdway, explains: “Our remit was to redefine CAT A+ design standards in London with a flexible, stylish and high-end space. We wanted to create a hospitality-inspired workspace that would add significant value for the client, while offering tenants a contemporary, practical and desirable West End destination.”
With its daring colour palette, layered materiality, and inventive use of space, One Smart’s Place demonstrates how the modern office can evolve into something both functional and atmospheric, combining commercial purpose with a sense of place.
One Smart’s Place London Photography, courtesy Thirdway.
