255 High Street for Beltane Spec Suite – Guildford
Oktra transformed a vacant floor in Guildford into a flexible, plug-and-play workspace, highlighting views and maintaining high-quality elements with minimal construction, Crittall glazing, vibrant colors, and adaptable features.
Beltane sought to rejuvenate a vacant floor at 255 High Street in Guildford, a building Oktra have previously delivered projects in. The property boasts generous external spaces in a prime location, and its elevated position offered spectacular views, a feature Oktra aimed to highlight while maintaining the existing building’s high-quality elements.
The brief was to create a flexible, ‘plug-and-play’ workspace suitable for any business. Oktra’s team emphasized a minimal build approach, keeping constructed elements to one side of the floorplate. The remaining space was designed to be open plan, featuring desks, booths, and touchdown areas. Oktra’s goal was to deliver a functional, adaptable environment that would cater to a diverse range of businesses.
Oktra’s design strategy focused on two main areas: the entrance and the teapoint. The entrance features a welcoming seating area and a front-of-house meeting suite, setting a professional yet inviting tone. The teapoint, equipped with tiered seating and various seating options, serves as a secondary focal point. Adjacent to this area are booths designed for informal meetings or focused work.
Oktra’s team used Crittall glazing to maintain the open nature of the space while providing privacy, and introduced bright, bold colours to inject energy and brightness. The walls were kept plain to allow future tenants to incorporate their branding. Moss-coloured slatted acoustic walls and thoughtful lighting features ensure good acoustics and a visually appealing environment. Different floor finishes delineate workspace from breakout and circulation areas, working with the building’s angularity to create distinct zones.
By understanding the needs of the landlord’s target tenants, Oktra delivered a high-quality, fully furnished space designed to appeal to a wide range of businesses. This strategic approach not only enhances the building’s natural advantages but also ensures it meets the diverse needs of potential tenants.
Design: Oktra
Photography: Oliver Pohlmann
