Finsbury Circus House, UK

Overview

The reception area at Finsbury Circus House, London has undergone a dramatic transformation, replacing the previously bland corporate look with a warmer, hospitality-inspired design aligned with today’s workplace needs.

The full lighting redesign by Ström strengthens the overall design vision and establishes a clearer visual hierarchy, making navigation more intuitive. The lighting scheme enhances the textures and materials of the refined interior palette and creates pockets of visual interest, shaping an atmosphere suited to each space. Collaboration and thoughtful design have delivered a beautifully balanced lobby that is softer and more welcoming, naturally drawing people in.

Design

While the North and South entrances benefit from natural light through their large glazed facades, the building’s deep-plan nature created a tunnel-like effect before the refurbishment, resulting in poor perception of the centrally placed reception desk and security gates.

The newly installed custom timber desk is defined by a bespoke brass and ribbed glass chandelier that anchors the reception. The elegant piece provides uplighting to the ceiling and task lighting below. Behind, the Portland stone wall’s textured leaf carvings – a feature throughout – are accentuated by a wash of uplighting, creating a commanding backdrop. Light Terrazzo tiles have replaced the previous dark stone floor to elevate the lobby’s central area further, allowing recessed downlights to bounce light between the floor and ceiling.

In the lounge area, oversized pendants and perimeter cove lighting create an inviting space that encourages people to spend time – be it for a meeting, waiting for someone, or just having some downtime. A recessed trough system adds structure to the ceiling and houses adjustable spotlights, providing general and accent lighting. A streamlined bench and seating along the floor-to-ceiling windows benefit from integrated bespoke task lighting, creating an ideal spot for flexible working.

The lobby’s new coffee bar is complemented by a matching bespoke chandelier, mirror-backed shelving with integrated lighting, and at a lower level, a wash of illumination highlighting its textured front. Integrated joinery lighting continues within timber shelving and planters, adding another layer of visual interest.

Sustainability

After 13 years, much of the existing lighting had reached the end of its first useful life, and the shift from a monolithic space to one with a hospitality feel made repurposing key fixtures less feasible. However, the majority of the floor and all stone wall finishes were retained, while serviceable lighting – such as decorative pendants and floor lights – was donated to Globechain for reuse on other projects.

The lighting design prioritised responsible specification – sourcing from UK and EU manufacturers whose products are designed for maintenance and end-of-life. Architectural luminaires exceed Part L requirements, while light troughs use standardised dimensions to allow future maintenance and upgrades without damaging finishes or generating waste.