The renovations, completed by Greenmount Projects, will create the optimum team working space when the group’s 2,800 Liverpool-based colleagues begin to split their time between home and office working when circumstances allow later this year.
For the flooring in the vast 10,000m2 space spanning over two buildings, The Very Group turned to flooring manufacturer and global leader in sustainability, Interface, and construction services specialists Greenmount Projects to install a range of products that not only improve the wellbeing of occupants, but also positively impact the world around us. The project also had a tight turnaround of 12 weeks, which meant the teams had to work quickly to complete the complex design by the deadline.
Supporting collaboration and inspiration
As the central hub of the company’s UK operations, it was important that the flooring incorporated The Very Group’s trend-led ethos, while also supporting creativity and collaboration. Having worked with Interface before, The Very Group knew that the manufacturer could provide the versatile products needed to create both a vibrant and productive space. One of the core ranges selected to deliver on the brief was NY+LON Streets. Inspired by two of the most iconic cities in the world, London and New York, it helps to create spaces that become community hubs for users. The styles featured in the collection can mix and match with other Interface carpet tiles or LVT which made it easy for designers to create a variety of inspiring environments.
Molly Durkin, designer at Greenmount Projects, said: “The head office supports a wide variety of teams, so it was important that the design catered to all working styles, encompassing quieter desk spaces, as well as collaborative breakout areas. Employee wellbeing is extremely important to The Very Group, and we very much believe in the impact that biophilic design can have in this area. We incorporated natural elements throughout the build, from the planters to the flooring. As a leader in championing biophilic design, we knew Interface could deliver the nature-inspired products we needed.
“Using the latest aesthetic trends offered by Interface, we were able to create a one-of-a-kind design for The Very Group. It wasn’t just about design though, they’re a climate conscious brand so were particularly interested in one of Interface’s latest collection, NY+LON Streets. It not only has a stunning design; it’s also paired with Interface’s CQuest™Bio backing which helps to lower its embodied carbon footprint by around a third when compared to traditional backings. So, this formed an integral part of the project.”
Versatile flooring
With 3,500 colleagues across the UK, The Very Group’s HQ is home to a vast number of teams, so installing flooring that was able to support a high footfall was key. To ensure durability, especially in the places that needed it most, such as the kitchen and break areas, Interface’s new LVT collection, Brushed Lines was selected. Inspired by nature, the collection combines diffused linear textures with organic forms and dusty hues, delivering a high-end look that stands up to everyday use. All of Interface’s LVT, including Brushed Lines, contains 39 per cent recycled content and is easy to install and maintain. The resilient flooring also comes with Sound Choice™ backing as standard to minimise distractions for The Very Group’s employees in areas where concentration is especially needed.
To further encourage teams to reconnect with nature, Interface’s Human Nature collection was also integrated into breakout areas to help fuel inspiration and collaboration. Inspired by biophilic design principles, the collection takes its cues from the visual, tactile textures we find in nature. The natural patterns of Composure were also introduced into the design. The collection is designed with the flexibility to flow easily through large spaces, meaning it reduces distractions and helps promote a sense of calm within the space.
For larger collaboration spaces, Textured Woodgrains from Interface’s Level Set® LVT collection was chosen to provide some contrasting, but durable aesthetics. The resilient flooring was paired seamlessly with NY+LON Streets carpet tile without the need for bridges or connectors, creating a smooth and level finish. As well as impressive durability credentials, Interface’s LVT offers superior acoustics and low VOCs for improved indoor air quality.
Sustainable from the ground up
Rachel Wylde, account manager at Interface, commented: “The Very Group’s goal is to become a fully sustainable business, so it adheres to strong ethical and environmental standards. This makes the sustainability benefits of the products they use and the partners they work with very important to them. All of Interface’s flooring is carbon neutral throughout its full product life cycle through our Carbon Neutral Floors™ Programme, which makes us the perfect partner for The Very Group.
“What made this project extra special is that it was one of the first projects in the UK to use our NY+LON Streets collection, which comes as standard with CQuest™Bio backing. Our new bio-based backing incorporates materials that when measured on a standalone basis are net carbon negative. We’re delighted that we were able to work with Greenmount Projects to get the project completed in time, creating a beautiful and inspiring HQ for The Very Group.”
The project team at The Very Group concluded: “It was extremely important that the space supported all of our teams and provides the perfect environment for office-based working and collaboration. Our new working model will see colleagues splitting their time between working from home and from the office. The wellbeing of our people is a key priority for us. Through championing biophilic design, Greenmount Projects and Interface have helped us to create a space which centres around the wellbeing of our team.”
“We couldn’t be more pleased with the vibrant and creative space Interface and Greenmount Projects have helped us to create. Not only do we now have a stunning head office which elevates the lives of the people who use it, but it has a positive impact on the world, too.”
For more information about Interface visit www.interface.com.
To find out about The Very Group visit: https://theverygroup.com/