Following a competitive Design & Build pitch process, SPACE was delighted to work with US cyber security firm Rapid7 to launch its new European Research and Development Centre based in the heart of Belfast city. Chichester House is around 50,000 square feet over nine storeys, so plenty of room to accommodate its current 250 staff. SPACE worked alongside Rapid7 and Interior Architects to create an office space that will work for them long-term with the flexibility to scale up and accommodate around 400 people.
Chichester House is one of the best-connected digital office spaces in Belfast, which was critical for Rapid7 to have the highest level of connectivity possible. The design was focused on providing a safe, comfortable workspace, with a clear ambition to create one of the most engaging workplaces in Northern Ireland.
There is a ground-floor barista café, lounge bar, library, games room and makerspace (featuring Lego walls, 3D printers and Raspberry Pis for learning programming). SPACE collaborated with the client to provide bespoke joinery pieces and intimate lighting with finishes and furniture that complimented each individual area, and enables total flexibility within the building to comfortably house different activities and working styles. The design exemplifies Rapid7’s core values to challenge convention and foster collaborative, creative and bold spirit – which they embody every day. Detailed attention was given to connecting to local culture through a wide use of graphics making it relevant to the city.
This is a great example of a company fostering a productive, inspiring environment which in turn will solidify their position to attract the best cybersecurity talent. SPACE is proud to design and build productive environments, tailored to individual client needs to ensure people thrive and businesses grow.
