Oxford Ionics

The client 

Oxford Ionics is at the forefront of pioneering quantum computing. It is delivering world-leading innovation to create the most powerful, robust, and scalable quantum computers in order to address the world’s most important (once impossible-to-solve) problems. 

The brief 

This two-phased project started in 2022 when the founders of the quantum computing company found a 4,985 sq ft space in Oxford Technology Park. Knowing from the start that this would only be their temporary home, work continued in the background to find, design and fit-out their permanent home, also in the park. 

For phase one, our team provided furniture and design for a tea point. The furniture for this space had to be meticulously chosen, as it had to be suitable for the permanent home. 

For phase two of this project, our team undertook the significant job of taking a shell and core (ground floor) and Cat A (first floor) space and making it fit to be Oxford Ionics’ global headquarters in Oxford.  

The laboratory space was at the heart of the design as it is the heartbeat  of the client’s work. As a result, our design team started by determining the location and space required for the labs and then building the support functions areas around it.  

Oxford Ionics has seen rapid growth in recent years, so the space created had to be adaptable and able to accommodate future growth. 

Lastly, the space had collaboration at its heart, with the client wanting to bring their dispersed teams into one building. The goal was to create a multiuse, campus-style space that would cater to the staff’s varying needs.  

The challenges 

Phased work 

The floors of the building were in two different stages of construction – one floor being shell and core and the other being in a Cat A state. This meant that the work to transform these into Cat B had to be carefully planned and executed. Our project manager liaised extensively with staff and subcontractors to ensure that the work was done on alternate floors and conducted safely and on programme. 

Some of the work carried out included: 

• Removing raised access floor and grid to install services
• Building partitions
• Adapting the existing MEP
• Installing new cold-water systems and 
• New AC Systems with local control 
• New Fresh Air and Extract System
• New CRAC Units for the System Halls
• New Lab Gas Systems
• New CHW System
• New Public Health 
• New BMS system 

Unisex toilets 

Due to the diversity within their team, the client was very passionate about having gender neutral toilets in their new space. As the base build contractors would have only been able to deliver male / female toilets, our team undertook the design and construction of three blocks of unisex toilets. 

This required early engagement with building control to confirm that the building would be compliant with regulations and to ensure that the project could proceed without delays. 

Noise control

As one of the floors in the building was an empty shell, there was a lot of noise and sound reverberation. To mitigate this, and to ensure that the working environment was safe, our project team staggered the work and segregated the site staff. This enabled works to be carried out on time; while ensuring the utmost safety of all staff and that no issues or accidents took place. 

Maximising minimal natural light

Due to the design of the building, only half of the space has access to direct natural light. To ensure employees had adequate levels of light throughout the space, regardless of which side of the building they were on, our design team worked in line with WELL building standards and BCO guidelines.  

Desk space was given priority, so all workstations were placed alongside the glazed windows to maximise access to natural light. In the collaboration and meeting spaces, biophilic elements were added to enhance wellbeing and we also capitalised on the vibrant brand colours to maximise the spaces.  

Lastly, various pendant lights were thoughtfully placed throughout the space to add different levels of ambience and provide a range of functional yet different work and meeting spaces.  

Incorporating brand colours

‘A strong sense of brand’ was a key element of Oxford Ionics’ brief, to create a cohesive and on-brand space with a high degree of accented brand colours throughout the space. This flows through multiple areas of the scheme; from the colour palette to the furniture, finishes and manifestations and even the mechanical air socks.  

Close working relationships

As the client was just across the street, it meant this was a truly collaborative project. The client was able to pop into site on a regular basis and decisions were made quickly and effectively. This also meant that site walks and design changes could be addressed quickly, and any potential issues were resolved immediately.  

The outcome 

We could not be more pleased with the outcome of this project. This unique space is a true reflection of Oxford Ionics as a company; its branding, its values and its mission

The completed space features 

• 9 meeting rooms  

• 7 pods   

• 2 tea points   

• 1 library space   

• Various open booths  

• Collaboration spaces  

• Townhall space  

• Training room  

• Wellness room   

• Breakout space