Nationwide is welcoming back workers to its newly designed Digital Hub at Ramsbury House in Swindon, featuring a flexible communal area, relaxing courtyard spaces and contemporary design details throughout. We helped the Nationwide team translate their brand into a workplace experience for employees to enjoy, having previously reimagined their branch concept.

The office will be home to over 700 of Nationwide’s digital staff and provides an environment for employees to build on existing technology capabilities. Drawing influence from the brand’s 4C branch concept - which includes dedicated zones for Conversation, Convenience, Community and Consultation - the design of the new workplace ensures that everyone who comes into contact with the brand, be they customers, branch staff or support staff, has the same unifying experience.

Community is a key focus of the new concept. The Bump Space - a flexible, reimagined restaurant - transforms from a cafe into a communal gathering space to be used for informal meetings, town halls and yoga classes as well as all-day dining. A range of seating options - high, low, soft and stepped - allows employees to work and socialise the way they want.

House-shaped pods inspired by the Nationwide logo bring the branch design language into the workplace, providing staff with a space for private or team working. Brick detailing on the walls represents the brand’s pioneering house-building campaign and mortgage-lender credentials. Exposed pipework and statement neon lighting give the digital innovation centre a contemporary feel that appeals to a younger, technologically-skilled workforce.

Outdoor courtyards within the complex have been designed as collaboration spaces, providing employees with a place to work together and relax. The reception area is an expression of the in-branch community zone, which shares stories of Nationwide’s CSR activities as well as events happening in the local area.