Workplace design has evolved dramatically over the past decade, and so has the way we work. In this edition of our Behind the Scenes series, we’re taking a closer look at Red Thread’s newly refreshed Manchester workplace and the design decisions behind it. From integrated technology and flexible work settings to architectural products and furniture solutions that support collaboration, discover how the space was designed to inspire our team and help customers envision what’s possible in their own workplaces.
Every workplace tells a story.
Some reflect where a company has been. Others signal where it’s going.
For our Manchester team, it was time for our space to do both.
After calling this location home since 2010, we knew the way we worked had evolved. The conversations we have, the way we collaborate, how we connect with customers, and even where we do our best thinking all look different today than they did fifteen years ago. Rather than simply updating finishes or replacing furniture, we saw an opportunity to rethink the experience from the ground up.
We sat down with the Manchester team to talk about the thinking behind the refresh, the design decisions that shaped the space, and what they hope visitors take away from the experience.
What sparked the decision to refresh the Manchester space now?
Our workplace simply wasn’t keeping pace with how work has evolved. The way we collaborate, connect, and support our customers has changed significantly since 2010, and we wanted our space to reflect that. Rather than making cosmetic updates, we saw an opportunity to create an environment that better supports today’s workplace while showcasing what’s possible for our clients.
Having been in this space since 2010, what felt most important to rethink?
The biggest priority was creating a space that better supports and energizes our team while inspiring the people who visit us. We wanted every part of the environment to demonstrate how integrated interiors can support different ways of working, whether someone is focused, collaborating, learning, or connecting with others.
How did you balance creating a workplace for your own team while showcasing the breadth of solutions you offer?
We started by looking at our own work modes, focused work, collaboration, learning, social connection, and hybrid meetings. What we found is that our needs aren’t very different from our customers’. By designing around those everyday experiences, we naturally created a space that demonstrates the same thoughtful, intentional solutions we recommend to clients.
Integration is a major theme throughout the space. What does that actually look like?
It means architecture, furniture, and technology aren’t treated as separate elements. They work together to create one cohesive experience. From the moment you walk in, the space is designed to seamlessly support both in-person and virtual work while allowing people to move naturally between different types of activities throughout the day.
How does the new space reflect the way people work today?
Choice and flexibility were central to every decision. The workplace offers a variety of settings that support focused work, collaboration, learning, social interaction, and rejuvenation, allowing people to choose the environment that best fits the task at hand.
Were there any moments during the design process that challenged your thinking?
Designing a high-performing workplace is always iterative. Throughout the process, we gathered feedback, tested ideas, and refined solutions. That willingness to adjust helped us create a workplace that’s both highly functional today and flexible enough to evolve over time.
What role did architectural elements like demountable walls play in the overall design?
Flexibility was one of our primary goals. Modular walls allowed us to create visual and acoustical privacy while maintaining the ability to adapt the space as needs change. They help provide employees with greater choice and control without sacrificing efficiency.
Many of the spaces serve multiple purposes. Can you share an example?
Our social hub is a great example. It supports customer visits, team meetings with both in-person and remote participants, informal collaboration, and everyday moments of connection. Rather than designing spaces for a single purpose, we wanted every area to work harder.
Are there details visitors might not notice immediately but were intentionally designed?
Absolutely. The variety of work settings throughout the space is incredibly intentional. Every environment was designed to support a specific work mode, whether that’s focused work, collaboration, learning, social interaction, or simply taking a moment to recharge. Those subtle choices work together to create a more balanced workplace experience.
“Every environment was designed to support a specific work mode, whether that’s focused work, collaboration, learning, social interaction, or simply taking a moment to recharge.”
How do you hope customers and partners use this space?
We want it to be more than a showroom. We see it as a resource where customers can explore ideas, experience integrated solutions firsthand, test new technologies, and envision what’s possible for their own workplaces.
When someone visits Manchester for the first time, what do you hope they leave thinking?
We hope they leave with confidence that Red Thread has the expertise, integrated capabilities, and broad portfolio of solutions to help bring their workplace vision to life. More importantly, we hope they leave inspired by what’s possible when workplace design is approached holistically.
The Manchester refresh isn’t just a new space. It’s a reflection of how work continues to evolve and how thoughtful design can help organizations adapt alongside it. We look forward to welcoming customers, partners, and the design community into the space to experience it for themselves.
If you’re planning your next workplace project, we’d love to show you around. Visit our Manchester showroom to explore the space, exchange ideas with our team, and discover new ways to create a workplace that supports your people and your goals.
