As part of its ongoing commitment to providing bespoke services to clients and enhancing the employee experience, Swiss private bank Julius Baer has relocated its London headquarters from the City of London to 8 Bleeding Heart Yard, Farringdon. This strategic move is designed to accommodate future growth while significantly reducing the bank’s carbon footprint.
Commitment to Sustainability
A key aspect of this project was maintaining the building’s BREEAM Very Good status. We implemented rigorous waste management protocols to ensure no furniture packaging ended up in landfill. All packaging waste – pallets, cardboard, and plastic – was meticulously separated to ensure proper recycling. This Zero to Landfill policy extended to repurposing furniture from the old office, with staff members retaining chairs, sofas, and tables.
In a noteworthy effort to minimise waste, we surveyed the existing Aeron chairs from the previous office, identifying 153 chairs in excellent condition for reuse in the new space. This initiative alone saved 13,158 kg of carbon.
A Contemporary Transformation
Designed by HLW architects, the new headquarters marks a significant departure from Julius Baer’s traditional aesthetic. Embracing a contemporary design, the space incorporates the building’s exposed concrete, seamlessly blending modern industrial chic with functional elegance.
Collaborative Strategy
In collaboration with HLW, we were instrumental in sourcing and delivering furniture that complements the contemporary aesthetic while adhering to Julius Baer’s sustainability goals and the building’s BREEAM Very Good status.
To ensure confidence in their furniture choices, we organised a comprehensive three-day showroom tour. This immersive experience allowed the Julius Baer team to visit manufacturers whose design styles and sustainability practices resonated with their vision. Our extensive knowledge and network within the furniture market proved invaluable, enabling the selection of pieces that perfectly matched the project’s requirements.
