Rainbow worked with Smiths News, the UK’s largest newspaper and magazine wholesaler, in 2024 – 2025 to refurbish the ground floor of their Swindon headquarters.
The Brief
Smiths News aimed to achieve a modern and practical working environment with a core focus on improving employee wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. The client’s vision was to create a space that truly represents Smiths News: They desired a modern workspace that reflected their heritage and future ambitions in equal measure.
The Solution
To achieve client’s aspirations, our project team worked closely with the interior design team at Savills to ensure their design came to life effectively.
Incorporating their vision into furniture pieces was a crucial part of the design concept and manufacturers were carefully selected on the basis of being able to fulfil this requirement. Technology and connectivity were also a big part of the specification, and our proposed solutions for during and post-project facilitated the client to achieve that vital milestone.
The use of space dividers and media units was intended to promote collaboration and agile ways of working. In addition to the new furniture, environmental considerations were addressed by restoring and reusing some of the key furniture pieces for the Boardroom.
Summary
Collaboration with Savills on this exciting project resulted in the creation of a very welcoming, functional and modern space for the Smiths News team to continue delivering outstanding services to their clients.
The combination of colours and materials used in the bespoke furniture reflects the company’s heritage whilst incorporating cutting-edge designs brought a modern feel that reflects the company’s future ambitions.
The focal point of the space is the café area that opens up to a carefully designed and reinvigorated tranquil courtyard, with outdoor furniture seamlessly blending into the landscape design of the space.
The entire refurbishment is testament to a company that values tradition; from the company’s print legacy to the subtle nods to their statement branding throughout.
Key Outcomes
- Functionality without Compromising Design: The new ground floor provides a functional space that showcases a carefully considered palette. It reflects the legacy of Smiths News whilst introducing natural greens, timber-effect finishes, and biophilic design.
- Emphasis on Employee Wellbeing: In this brand-new workspace, employee wellbeing is the centre focus. Nature was intentionally weaved throughout the space to contribute a sense of calm, and the main hub for collaboration seamlessly flows to the courtyard.
- Technology Seamlessly Incorporated: The seamless incorporation of technology ensured the space is future-proofed and built for modern day working.
Testimonial
“Rainbow played a key role in completing the refurbishment of Rowan House. Once the building works were finished, they stepped in to deliver the final piece—furnishing the space in line with the design vision.
Their team worked closely with us and the designers, taking the time to understand the brief and explore options through multiple showroom visits. The end result was a modern, collaborative workspace that suits our needs and looks great.
Installation was smooth, and the quality of the furniture speaks for itself. Rainbow’s attention to detail and commitment to getting it right made a real difference. We’re very pleased with the outcome.”
Paul Redford, Head of Maintenance & Construction, Smiths News
Special thanks to the entire project team
Interior Designer: Savills
Suppliers: Rawside, Naughtone, Narbutas, Allermuir, Hitch Mylius, Elite, Forma 5, Gazzda, Modus, HAY, Hush
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