In simple terms, sustainable office design is about creating workspaces that tread lighter on the planet while supporting the health, comfort and productivity of the people who use them. It’s about making smart, long-term choices with materials, systems, and space.
It’s also about intent.
At Spectrum Workplace, we believe sustainability should be woven in from the start—not bolted on later. Whether you’re planning a new fit-out or upgrading your current workplace, sustainable design has the power to shape better outcomes for your people, your business, and the world around you.
Whether it’s the lighting system you install or the furniture you specify, it all carries environmental weight. Sustainable design brings those decisions into focus.
We welcome you to discuss your upcoming project and iron out any questions you may have.
Using the contact form below, fill out all the necessary information for us to give you a follow up, or, if you prefer, give us a call or send an email.
CALL US: 023 9248 9933
EMAIL US: sales@spectrumworkplace.co.uk
The workplace has a footprint. According to the World Green Building Council, buildings account for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions—and commercial spaces play a major role.
Traditional offices often rely on energy-heavy systems, single-use materials, and wasteful operations. From harsh artificial lighting to landfill-bound furniture, the cumulative impact adds up fast.
Shifting to a sustainable model doesn’t just reduce that footprint. It can also:
Importantly, sustainable design doesn’t mean sacrificing aesthetics or performance. The most vibrant, functional workspaces today are also the most environmentally thoughtful.
The most impactful (and creative) element of sustainable office design is second-life materials.
From reclaimed wood and repurposed glass to vintage lighting and reconditioned furniture, giving materials a new home cuts waste and adds character. It also reduces embodied carbon—the emissions created during the production and transport of new items.
At Spectrum, we ensure that all reused materials are safe, ergonomic, and built to last. They’re not just more sustainable, they tell a story and give your space a distinct identity.
Some recent examples we’ve used:
It’s a practical win, a design win, and often a cost win.
Heating, lighting and cooling account for office energy use. Modern systems are far more efficient and intelligent.
Sustainable offices now include:
These technologies reduce energy demand while increasing comfort. They also improve long-term performance ratings and ESG scores, without sacrificing user experience.
Materials matter. A sustainable office considers not just what goes into a space, but how it performs over time and how easily it can be reused or recycled in future.
Key material considerations include:
The right materials reduce emissions, improve air quality, and lower costs by lasting longer.
A sustainable workspace isn’t only about the planet, it’s also about the people inside it.
At Spectrum, our design process always considers:
Well-designed workplaces lead to happier, healthier employees. They can lower absenteeism, boost morale, and support productivity in meaningful ways.
But it doesn’t stop there. We consider how the workspace interacts with its wider community. Can it host local events? Can we prioritise local suppliers? Can unused areas support broader use?
We design with community in mind, extending the value of your space beyond the business itself.
Waste doesn’t just happen during occupancy, it happens during design and build. That’s why we work to reduce it at every stage.
Even small choices, like retaining kitchen units or repurposing joinery, can have a meaningful impact over time.
There’s a myth that sustainable design means higher costs. It often creates more control, clarity, and value.
Our clients are looking to:
Sustainable design supports all of these objectives. It’s not a niche—it’s smart business.
We don’t treat sustainability as a bonus—it’s simply how we work. We align with leading standards and benchmarks, from BREEAM and SKA Gold to local regulations and corporate ESG frameworks. But more than that, we focus on real-world delivery.
Every project is different. Our job is to help you navigate sustainability in a way that works for your space, your goals, and your team.
The decisions you make now will shape your workplace for years to come. Sustainable design is about more than compliance—it’s about being better.
Let’s design a workspace that works harder for your people, business, and the world beyond your walls. Contact us today.
