James Anderson, Barnes

The brief:

Returning client James Anderson asked MPL Interiors to refit and reimagine a pair of three-sided, wrap-around offices in Barnes. The brief was to pay homage to the unmistakeable corporate brand on the exterior but to create a different aesthetic to the other branches inside. Each office – set either side of a pedestrian walkway – was to be a mirror image of the other.

The offices – one for sales and one for lettings – were required to look more upmarket and contemporary internally, with luxe finishes, tailored storage and predominant branding. The exterior was to be revamped in line with the nearby Putney branch – also being renovated by MPL.

Our approach:

We have been involved with evolving the James Anderson proposition and aesthetic across all its London branches for a number of years. Each project has always involved its iconic red corporate colour but unique personality has infused each branch.

Our latest commission took us to two existing James Anderson offices in Barnes. The starting point was a complete strip back of the existing décor, and removal of the old fixtures, fittings and furniture.

Twin peaks

As essentially one-room offices, all of the elements needed to work in harmony. Our space planning allowed for a client waiting area, desk zone and tailored storage in each office. The request for a more residential interior feel – a departure from the typical corporate look - saw us focus on opulent tones and tactile elements.

A combination of wall cladding, textured wallpaper and herringbone-laid flooring provided a neutral blank canvas to which we could add layers of interest. Softness comes in the form of rugs, leather armchairs, glass coffee tables, sofas and pendant lights. Richness was added with walnut finishes, seen across the new desks, which are complete with integral modesty panels and pedestals, and in the new back wall storage units.

Sophisticated storage on show

The latter are custom-fitted banks of storage that provide a discreet but stylish way for the staff to store items. Hidden behind flat-finished doors are a coat cupboard and a server cupboard, as well as a sink, a power supply, an undercounter fridge and illuminated shelves to create a pantry-style mini kitchen.

Also drawing the eye in both offices is a statement wall logo that features chrome, built up lettering and logo details - individually illuminated with warm white LEDs for an almost golden glow.

Exterior upgrades

Externally, each office now features a refreshed façade. There are new, black-framed LED display pockets, suspended using streamlined cables, and the old grey paintwork has been replaced by crisp black. New trough fascias were internally illuminated, with ‘fret cut and push through’ text. Each fascia sign is differentiated by the addition of either ‘sales’ or ‘lettings’ lettering.