In Autumn 2023, Showcase PSR was honoured to be selected by Somerset Council to reimagine the Firepool Centre for Digital Innovation in Taunton. This project was part of a larger initiative to foster growth in the digital economy across Somerset.

Our challenge was to design and furnish three floors of innovative office and collaborative spaces tailored to drive technological advancement and support local businesses.

Design Vision

Our design journey began with a collaborative meeting to align with the client’s vision and refine our concepts. We crafted a dynamic environment across the Firepool Centre, balancing flexibility with functionality. Each space was carefully planned to promote productivity and creativity in the digital sector.

Ground Floor: We transformed this area into a vibrant hub with a versatile meeting space, a welcoming reception café, and a collaborative kitchen. This floor was designed to be a dynamic entry point, encouraging interaction and networking.

Lower Ground Floor: This level was dedicated to practical and specialised needs, featuring locker rooms, cloakrooms, and a podcast studio.

First Floor: Here, we created an environment suited for both individual and collaborative work. This floor includes a business centre with desk rentals, flexible working areas, and soundproof meeting booths, ensuring a productive and private workspace for team calls and other essential tasks.

Second Floor: Similar to the first, this level features large open-plan offices, adaptable to various business needs, with mobile acoustic whiteboards and room dividers that allow flexible workspace arrangements.

Services

Upon winning the tender, we began work immediately, thanks to a streamlined project management process. Our team conducted live CAD planning sessions and site visits to fine-tune our designs, ensuring every detail was accounted for.

Our approach integrated existing power and data infrastructures, adapting our designs to accommodate these elements. We focused on inclusivity and comfort, incorporating acoustic solutions and adjustable lighting to cater to diverse needs and ensure a welcoming environment for everyone.

Our furniture specialists were appointed for the furniture selection process. Every piece was chosen to meet specific requirements, from height-adjustable desks and ergonomic seating to adaptable meeting furniture and resilient, easy-to-clean materials for high-traffic areas.

Sustainability and Impact

Sustainability was a core consideration throughout the project. We worked with FISP-certified suppliers, focusing on environmentally friendly and durable materials. The careful planning of delivery phases minimised environmental impact and ensured efficient resource use.

The redesigned Firepool Centre is now a state-of-the-art facility designed to accommodate 150-200 people. It stands as a testament to innovative design, providing a flexible and supportive environment for digital businesses, and contributing positively to the local economy.

Reflection

The Firepool Centre project exemplifies how thoughtful design can create spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring. By adhering to our detailed process and prioritising sustainability, we delivered a project that exceeded client expectations and set a high standard for collaborative digital workspaces in Somerset.

Our success in this project highlights the importance of flexibility, communication, and a commitment to quality – principles that continue to drive our work and deliver exceptional results for our clients.