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 retrospectively, as reactive fixes. Instead, we should 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. Moreover, accessibility should extend beyond physical needs to include digital tools and wayfinding systems that make navigation effortless.

Case Study

Allianz set out to create a truly inclusive new HQ and commissioned Woodhouse to fit out their building at Botanica, Ditton Park. Accessible tea points were incorporated, providing all employees with equal opportunity to prepare food and socialise together. As the client team wanted health and wellbeing at the heart of the design, we incorporated skilful biophilia throughout the space and made full use of the building’s excellent natural light. This created an indoor environment that perfectly reflected the tranquil surroundings of the rural Surrey location – a truly calming and inclusive workspace.

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 creating a custom space for the 24/7 easyJet Airlines team – located in a shared building with easyJet Holidays – we recognised the team’s need for a controlled zone where lighting could be independently adjusted to suit individual preferences. Darker finishes were carefully chosen to minimise glare and enhance comfort. In addition, Woodhouse provided dedicated rest areas with comfortable recliners, giving employees a place to relax and take time out.

easyJet Case Study

Sustainability

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

Case Study

At 62 Horseferry Road, we refurbished a Grade II listed building into a flagship Westminster workspace, creating a first class office space whilst retaining the heritage of the building. To improve its sustainability, we integrated cutting-edge 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, while ensuring these spaces remained as spacious and well considered as everywhere else. The result was 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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