Inclusion by Design

Design inspiration

Building communities that inspire collaboration, creativity, and belonging

Building communities that inspire collaboration, creativity, and belonging

Inclusion isn’t a box to tick—it’s a mindset that should shape every decision in workspace design. Too often, accessibility or neurodiversity considerations are added later, as reactive fixes. Instead, we need to design for diversity upfront, ensuring spaces work for everyone.

Date
January 5, 2026
Topic
Design inspiration

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Accessibility

Step-free access, wide corridors, clear signage, and adaptable furniture aren’t optional—they’re essential. Accessibility should extend beyond physical needs to include digital tools and wayfinding systems that make navigation effortless.

Case Study

Allianz commissioned Woodhouse to fit out Petplan’s new headquarters at Botanica, Ditton Park. Incorporated here are accessible tea points, so that all employees have the same opportunities to prepare food and socialise together. Furthermore, in keeping with the wider surroundings of the rural Surrey location, together with the client team’s desire to have health and wellbeing in mind throughout the space, Woodhouse incorporated lots of biophilia within the design and made full use of the building’s excellent natural light. A truly inclusive project.

Petplan Case Study

Neurodiversity

Not everyone thrives in open-plan environments. Quiet zones, sensory-friendly areas, and adjustable lighting can make a huge difference for neurodivergent employees. Providing choice—whether that’s a calm space for deep work or a vibrant hub for collaboration—empowers individuals to work in ways that suit them best.

Case Study

As part of delivering a custom space for the24/7 easyJet Airlines team in a shared building with easyJet Holidays, Woodhouse recognised the particular requirement of this team to work in a controlled zone where lighting can be independently adjusted for individual needs of the occupier. Darker finishes were carefully selected to minimise glare and create a comfortable environment. Woodhouse also provided dedicated rest areas with comfortable recliners where employees can rest and take time-out.

easyJet Case Study

Sustainability

Inclusion also means caring for the planet we share. Eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, maximising natural light and considering incorporating wellbeing spaces for employees create healthier spaces for people and the environment.

Case Study

At 62 Horseferry Road, Woodhouse refurbished a Grade II listed building into a flagship workspace for Westminster, creating a first class office space whilst retaining the heritage of the building. To improve its’ sustainability, Woodhouse integrated the latest technology, installed energy-efficient systems, diverted waste from landfill, and used sustainably sourced and recycled materials. We included bike storage and showers to encourage active lifestyles, and made these spaces just as spacious and well considered as the rest. The result is a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, a WiredScore 'Gold’ rating, and – particularly impressive for a refurbishment – an EPC of ‘A’. Sustainability is now deeply ingrained in every element of the building.

62 Horseferry Road Case Study

“When inclusion is baked into the design process, the workplace becomes more than functional—it becomes a statement of the values of the organisation.”

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The workplace is no longer just a physical location—it’s an experience that shapes how people feel, work, and connect. By designing spaces that prioritise inclusivity, wellbeing, and flexibility, organisations can create environments where employees thrive. When we align workspace design with culture and values, we don’t just build offices—we build communities that inspire collaboration, creativity, and belonging.

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