PZ Cussons – Completed Project

Flexible Business Interiors (FBI), in partnership with Incognito, has completed the delivery of a transformational refurbishment of PZ Cussons’ global HQ on Aviation Way, Manchester.

The project, which took 14 weeks to complete, has seen the design team re-imagine PZ Cussons’ circa 3,700 m2 office building to include a brand-led interior which takes inspiration from the company’s leading UK brands – Original Source, Imperial Leather and Carex – as well as providing a wide variety of working environments to give employees absolute flexibility in where and how they work. The scheme is also expected to set a new benchmark for online working technologies within the organization thanks to the video call capabilities installed throughout the office that will allow total connectivity for employees and partners around the world.

The main office floor features a fresh, vibrant Original Source themed gathering space where staff can come together to meet, chat and socialise in an environment designed to boost energy and promote wellbeing. While a suite of collaboration areas showcase a richer colour palette as a nod to the Imperial Leather brand first launched in 1930. Surrounding these spaces are traditional desking areas for those who like routine and a place to call ‘home’, while individuals looking for a quiet place to work on specific tasks will find solace in the ‘focus’ zones.

The project sees the total overhaul of a large communal meeting area which now features bespoke articulating and expanding joinery walls, creating a truly multifunctional space for staff to hack and adapt to suit their specific requirements. In addition, the new HQ, which is home to over 200 staff, boasts a striking new reception area, restaurant and state-of-the-art gym complete with a vibrant planting scheme and statement lighting spelling out tongue-in-cheek brand catchphrases.

Kieran Hemsworth, UK Managing Director at PZ Cussons, said: “Incognito came into our business a year ago to help us understand what our employees need from their office, how and when they want to use it, and what we can do to better support them. The scheme that has been developed on the back of this shows an impressive understanding of our business and great creative flair. Over the course of the build programme, which has been unobtrusive, well managed and delivered with real finesse by Flexible Business Interiors, the excitement has been growing and we can’t wait to share our new space with colleagues and visitors alike over the coming weeks.” 

George Curwen, Project Director at Flexible Business Interiors, concluded: ”PZ Cussons is home to some big brand products that can be found in every home in the UK so it is a huge honour to have delivered their new workspace. Incognito’s design includes some really interesting details from bespoke joinery items, soap bubble inspired light fittings and hi-tech connectivity which will make this building a fantastic place to work.”

Throughout the design, procurement and delivery process sustainability has been key for both PZ Cussons and the design team. As a result, Incognito’s concept allowed for the repurposing of as much of the original fit out as possible and suppliers were chosen not only for the design integrity and quality of their products, but also their environmental credentials. It is hoped that the scheme will achieve a Gold WELL Standard Accreditation.

The wider development team also includes In4m as Project Manager and Hilson Moran for M&E and WELL Standard consultancy.