Sustainability in office design: The ENGIE case study

Jeremy Poole

Written By:

Job Title: Sales Director

ENGIE is a leading renewable energy company working towards a carbon-neutral economy. They worked with Building Interiors to create a workspace that doesn’t just say they’re a renewable energy company, but truly makes them feel like one. 

We designed and built an office design that tells their story, embodies their mission, and inspires those who work in and visit the office.

Building Interiors Engie

Define – The intent & brief 

The design needed to prioritise ENGIE’s commitment to sustainability, which meant considering everything from environmentally conscious materials to functional space that supports employees and fosters collaboration. 

To infuse their identity into their space, we considered:

  • Wind turbine-inspired architectural features and decorative elements
  • Reflective, rippled surfaces to symbolise water and hydropower
  • Sustainable and repurposed materials to mirror their business ethos and commitment to sustainability 
  • Biophilic design for a calm, welcoming environment 

We also needed to integrate BREEAM principles where possible, including measures like energy efficiency, material selection, waste management and water use.

Design – The scope & material 

Whether someone needed a quick huddle or a large workshop, space had to flex. We introduced agile furniture and interactive stations to foster community and encourage spontaneous interaction. At the same time, we recognised the need for deep work, and a network of solo pods was placed strategically to protect focus without dampening team activity. 

Comfort and wellbeing were designed in from the outset. Natural light, ergonomic furniture, biophilic cues and a calm palette combine to create a setting people actually want to be in.

Material choices carried the sustainability brief through to the finish. Partnering with local supplier, Camira Fabric, we used their carbon-neutral textile collection, bringing nettle, hemp, flax, jute and recycled plastic fabrics into the furniture and decor.

Deliver – Results & Impact 

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We brought ENGIE’s vision to life by seamlessly integrating design that reflects renewable energy sources, with environmentally conscious practices. 

The result is an office that not only embodies ENGIE’s values but sets a new standard for sustainability in office design. 

The new office space

  • Encourages collaboration with flexible and interactive spaces 
  • Provides space for focused work with quiet areas and pods 
  • Incorporates technology like booking systems, interactive screens and adequate charging points throughout 
  • Creates comfort with ergonomic furniture and aesthetic biophilic design
  • Introduces agile furniture to support adaptable working styles and fluidity

 

Sustainable office design checklist 

Transform your office by following this checklist:

  1. Set clear sustainability targets and recognised accreditation (e.g. BREEAM)
  2. Design spaces for efficiency and flexibility
  3. Specify recycled/locally sourced materials and design 
  4. Balance collaboration and focus with agile space planning
  5. Build a feedback loop to ensure the design performs, not just looks good

Ready to make your office both sustainable and loved by its users? Get in touch and let’s define, design and deliver it together.