Loney Miller, Southfields

The brief:

Our client was determined to achieve an ‘anti-estate agent’ office, eschewing the conventional corporate look for an aesthetic that had a more village, community vibe. As well as incorporating Loney Miller’s distinctive yellow and black brand colours, we were asked to introduce the natural warmth of wood and create two staff break-out areas.

Our approach:

Loner Miller is an ambitious property brand in the Wimbledon area and when the opportunity to relocate to a more prominent premises arose, it leapt at the chance. Its new office overlooks Southfields Tube station – the closest to the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club. As such, MPL was asked to complete the work in time for the global tennis tournament and the footfall it would bring.

The premises was handed over to MPL as a project with Cat A+ and Cat B aspects, split over a ground floor and basement. Our first job was to complete a full electric install, with new data outlets and power sockets, a comms cabinet, new distribution board and power for a series of HDMI screens. Additionally, we prepared for all-new lighting, comprising a mix of LEDs, gimball, suspended feature and emergency.

These new connections allowed MPL to install an internally-illuminated wall logo in dark grey aluminium with yellow vinyl; create a low-profile, halo-lit fascia sign to the exterior, and add an internally-illuminated projecting sign.

With all the electrical work complete, the team could plaster and install a dropped raft ceiling with bulkheads and install troughs for the LED lights. Emphasis then shifted to the personalisation of the space. The front window was left free of any property displays and with clear glass, it was up to MPL to create a look that was more design agency and less estate agency.

We turned to bespoke joinery to create a totally unique look, working closely with a team of craftsmen to add tailor-made timber elements. Natural oak slatted wall panels set the tone and a number of elements mirror this warm, naturalistic look. A storage unit housing a drinks cooler, hot desk shelf, a fixed bookshelf, a freestanding bookshelf and an eight-person desk – set with on-brand yellow chairs – ensure anyone looking in sees a creative, welcoming space. The bespoke elements were complemented by birch pendant lights, a wooden wall clock and complementary reception furniture.

Away from the public’s gaze are two break out areas. A kitchen-cum-meeting room has been fitted with oak timber slats with an inset screen and a bar-height desk. A small snug has also been created in the basement, complete with Loney Miller branding.

Additional elements

MPL completed a full redecoration, painting all ceilings, walls and woodwork. We also installed air conditioning and a security alarm system.