The brief was to create a distinctive, contemporary work environment that was clean and functional. The resulting design is vibrant and creative. The space is flexible and includes a variety of work environments to suit the diverse nature of EMI, from music marketing to Finance and the Executive Board

Visitors enter the double height glass reception space through revolving doors. The reception desk forms the focal point within Reception area. This has a glass front which houses colour changing LEDs supplied by Crescent Lighting. Luminaires in the ceiling were supplied by Modular. These are the Lotis AR111 with halogen lamps, and the Freeway Plexi Down Trough. Globall floor lights from Flos add a domestic reference to the 'meet and greet' area. An exposed brick wall uplit by iGuzzini's Linealuce fittings injects warmth into this space.

Behind the lift a curved staircase links the ground floor to the first. The first floor is at the base of the atrium and features the main kitchen and staff cafe area. It is a large, uplifting space that provides a flexible area for dining. It also provides a space for performances, where EMI can showcase new talent.

The cafe features a bespoke glass counter internally illuminated with colour changing LEDs. This allows EMI to vary the colour to suit different occasions and times of day. Opposite the counter a large graphic screen creates a theatrical feel and a striking backdrop. Photography by Art Source features macro images of grass printed onto glass. The MoreySmith commissioned photographic image is printed onto one side of glass then double-glazed. As it divides offices the ambient lighting gives it a back-lit effect

Floorlights set in the atrium floor are Ledos by Zumtobel. Blue light boxes, supplied by Specials Lighting, take T5 24W fluorescent tubes. These create a line of blue light that runs around each floor - creating a dramatic effect within the Atrium.

MoreySmith has created an open plan workspace in which the majority of employees are based. This contrasts with EMI's former offices, which were more cellular. The more open environment encourages communication, a sense of community and gives a more spacious atmosphere.

Each floor has a different identity with contrasting materials, palettes and lighting encouraging an individual feel. For example the third floor features a 'services on show' theme with exposed services creating an industrial feel. Mini Multiple Trimless lighting from Modular contribute to this atmosphere.

Breakout areas and refreshment points on every floor provide a space for staff to relax and an alternative meeting area. Different lighting assists in giving each refreshment point a unique character. For example the second floor features brown leather Chesterfield sofas and an Eames lounger and ottoman complemented by Artemide's Arco light.

Every desk has an Artemide Tolomeo to give a personal feel, and each office has a table or floor lamp - Globall from Flos. Mellow Light IV from Zumtobel Staff lights the main office space. In the stairwells Brio from Concord:Marlin was used as an emergency fitting.

Throughout the office natural light has been maximised by the use of glazing to office fronts. Lighting has been specified to ensure a comfortable environment, avoiding hot spots and reflection on computer screens. A variety of fittings have been chosen for their lighting effect and appearance. The look is contemporary and the solution achieved cool and diffuse.

The EMI staff love their new space, both as somewhere to work and to socialise. The atrium cafe is bright and airy during the day, and is always buzzing and lively. At night, through the use of perimeter lighting, the atmosphere changes so that staff come to the bar to get away from work at the end of the day.

Staff also like the personal touches to their office areas, particularly the task lights on their desks, which put them more in control of their own workspace.

As Eric Nicoli of the EMI Group states: "The objectives for our new head office building have been met in full. MoreySmith's design has delivered a remarkable transformation and has elicited a reaction from staff which is not just positive but beyond our expectations."

Lighting Design: MoreySmith
Lighting Fixtures: Crescent Lighting CL LEDs, Modular Lotis AR111 halogens, Modular Freeway Plexi Down Troughs, Modular Mini Multiple Trimless lighting, Flos Globall floor lights, iGuzzini Linealuce, Zumtobel Staff Mellow Light IV, Zumtobel Staff Ledos floorlights, Specials Lighting blue light boxes w T5 24W fluorescent tubes, Concord:Marlin Brio, Artemide Arco light, Artemide Tolomeo desk lights

information: www.moreysmith.com