This project for leading cosmetics manufacturer Pelham Laboratories was to integrate office, product development and production environments into a high-performance headquarters that enhances client experience, collaboration, wellbeing and operational efficiency.
Hannah Tilley – Senior Associate, Design
Spectrum Workplace delivered a workplace transformation for Pelham Laboratories, reimagining their new headquarters into a modern, high-performance environment that integrates development laboratory, production and office functions within a single cohesive and efficient workspace.
When approached by Pelham Laboratories, the project brief was to consolidate their business functions into a single location, with a heavy focus on enhancing client and partner experience.
Many manufacturing and laboratory-based organisations have traditionally operated from highly functional but often dated environments. This transformation supported Pelham Laboratories in modernising its operations, aligning it with current expectations for collaborative working, brand presentation and staff experience, while still maintaining the operational integrity required for scientific and production processes.
From the outset, the design strategy focused on improving spatial efficiency and creating a clearer separation between production, laboratory and office environments, while maintaining visual and functional connectivity across the business. The existing layout was reconfigured to support improved flow between departments, enabling better communication, oversight and collaboration between technical and administrative teams.
A key focus of the project was enhancing the employee experience and creating a more engaging and supportive workplace environment. A new breakout and social space was introduced to provide staff with a dedicated area for rest, informal interaction and cross-team collaboration. This helps to foster a stronger sense of community within the business, supporting wellbeing and improving day-to-day workplace satisfaction.
Alongside functionality and wellbeing, the design also prioritised a clean, professional aesthetic that reflects Pelham Laboratories’ brand identity and position within the cosmetics industry. A refined material palette was introduced, combining durable industrial finishes with softer, more contemporary elements to create a balanced environment that feels both robust and welcoming.
The laboratory and production areas were designed with precision and compliance in mind, ensuring that all operational requirements, health and safety standards and workflow efficiencies were fully supported. At the same time, office and client-facing areas were elevated to provide a more contemporary and professional setting for meetings, presentations and day-to-day business operations.
Lighting and environmental performance were key considerations throughout the scheme. Energy-efficient systems and carefully planned lighting strategies were introduced to support both task-led laboratory environments and more ambient office and breakout spaces, ensuring optimal visibility, comfort and operational efficiency across all areas.
Delivered within a phased programme, the project required detailed planning and coordination to ensure early commencement and continuity of operations throughout the build.
Throughout the project, end-to-end delivery ensured that the design intent was carried through from initial concept to final completion. Strong coordination between all stakeholders enabled a high level of technical precision and quality control, resulting in a highly functional and future-ready workplace.
The completed headquarters now provides Pelham Laboratories with a cohesive, efficient and modern environment that supports both operational performance and employee wellbeing. It brings together laboratory, production and office functions within a unified workplace that improves communication, enhances productivity and reflects the company’s continued growth.
Overall, the project demonstrates how workplace transformation within manufacturing and laboratory environments can move beyond purely functional requirements to deliver improved culture, experience and performance. The result is a modern, integrated headquarters that supports innovation, strengthens operations and elevates the everyday working experience for staff across the business.
