When innovation consultancy Cambridge Design Partnership (CDP) set out to build a new headquarters (New Build Bourn Quarter), they were looking for a space that would better facilitate years of rapid growth, an expanding client base, and an increase in staff. They needed a purpose-built Innovation Centre that would reflect their core values and support their mission to deliver breakthrough technologies for global brands.

Showcase PSR were appointed as the furniture consultant and supplier for the commercial fit-out, having completing the Tender process with a focus on creating a workplace that would support employee wellbeing, promote design functionality, and allow for long-term adaptability as the organisation continues to evolve.

Located within the newly developed Bourn Quarter near Cambridge, the 56,000 ft² headquarters was designed to support a wide range of specialist environments. The new facility includes labs, advanced workshops, open-plan offices, a fully equipped café, welcoming breakout areas, and a 200-seat auditorium.

Scope & Services

Showcase PSR’s involvement covered the full spectrum of services, from early-stage consultancy and furniture specification through to project management and final installation. Working closely with interior designer Nichola McCann from McCann Creative, as well as CDP’s in-house team and IT specialists, we helped shape a workspace that was not only visually impressive but also technically and operationally robust.

Every space within the building presented its own set of functional requirements. Showcase PSR needed to create a sense of consistency across the building, while allowing each individual area to serve its specific purpose. From the welcoming reception and flexible breakout areas to the highly specified labs and auditorium, each environment required careful coordination between design intent, user needs, and technical feasibility.

Furniture was selected for quality, longevity, and environmental responsibility, with products sourced from leading manufacturers including Steelcase, Narbutas, 2020, Connection, and Imperial. Each piece was chosen to support both comfort and durability while aligning with the clean, contemporary aesthetic of the wider design.

We also worked closely with main contractor Overbury to manage access and scheduling on site. Although certain areas, such as the second floor, presented logistical challenges, these were resolved through careful planning and flexibility on the ground. The project was delivered on time, with the new space completed in December 2023.

Success Points

The success of the CDP Innovation Centre lay in the strength of collaboration between all parties involved. Clear communication, mutual respect, and a shared vision allowed the team to overcome technical challenges and deliver a workspace that exceeded expectations.

Some of the key challenges involved integrating suitable power solutions within the high-spec technical zones. Working closely with CDP’s IT partners and manufacturers, we identified smart, discreet options that preserved both functionality and aesthetic quality. Bespoke soft seating also required careful management. Thanks to regular site visits by one of our local manufacturers, we ensured a precise fit and high-quality finish for these more complex pieces.

Sustainability remained a central focus throughout the project. CDP were committed to reusing a number of key furniture pieces from their previous office, including desks and meeting chairs. The Showcase PSR team worked to blend these elements into the new design, helping to reduce waste while also creating a visual and material link between the company’s past and its future.

Showcase PSR are proud to have supported CDP in the delivery of this landmark project. The result is a workspace that will not only serve the needs of today but will continue to evolve and inspire for many years to come.

Discover more Showcase PSR projects here.