Ocado, Hertfordshire

The brief

Described as ‘the world’s largest dedicated online grocery retailer’, Ocado required an office fitout to match their status. They acquired the remaining 25,000 sq ft of Cat A floor space in Apollo Court on Hatfield Business Park.  This gave them the whole building including a full height atrium. The new space was to become a contemporary workplace that would bring their teams together. Starting with a Cat A blank canvas, Woodhouse listened to Ocado’s key requirements and the detailed design process began. Part way through the project a key challenge emerged: Ocado agreed a joint venture with M&S and Apollo Court was nominated to be the HQ for this new partnership. This required a raft of changes to the design and subsequent fitout after the project had commenced on site.

The solution

Starting with a Cat A blank canvas, Woodhouse listened to Ocado’s requirements and developed the workspace in collaboration with them. Key elements of the new layout include a refreshed reception area providing a welcoming introduction to the company. Leading from the reception is a central atrium café which then flows into the outdoor area. Meeting rooms, breakout spaces, collaborations zones, tea points and open plan desking were all part of the Smarter Workspace that was created for Ocado to enhance collaboration, communication and concentration. Ocado have a space that is both modern and practical and equips the teams to perform to their best.