PROJECTS » Royal London, Edinburgh

CREATING A NEW OFFICE SPACE FOR A LEADING INVESTMENT FIRM

Royal London, a mutual insurer and investment management company, delivers pension, retirement, savings, investment and life insurance solutions from offices across Manchester, Edinburgh and the UK.

Founded in 1861, the company is proudly customer-owned and continues to work with clients long term to support their best interests by helping them to build financial resilience.

Seeking to bring an architectural design vision to life, Thomas and Adamson, now known as EGIS, a global leader in consulting, construction and engineering solutions, approached Benholm looking to create a welcoming entrance for Royal London’s office in Haymarket, Edinburgh.

Haymarket Yards is Royal London’s largest workspace in Edinburgh with scenic views of the Pentland hills. With an abundance of transport links and amenities in the surrounding area, the office is situated in an architecturally impressive part of Scotland.

ENHANCING BRAND IDENTITY AND WORKPLACE WELLBEING

The new office evokes an organic modern workspace, with statement timber finishes, and a considered neutral colour palette, greenery was introduced to bring energy and life to this office environment.

Particular focus was placed on key touchpoints within the office, including the main entrance and communal areas where people meet, work and take frequent breaks. Areas of greenery help to boost mood and increase productivity with their calming presence.

To remain aligned with Royal London’s distinctive aesthetic, Benholm created unique focal points. The brand is renowned for its deep royal purple and its iconic Gilbert the Pelican symbol: a proud and dignified creature that embodies Royal London’s core values of trust, collaboration, and achievement. Benholm designed a striking branded entrance that captures the essence of the Royal London identity, making a memorable first impression.

THE SOLUTION

Biophilic design resides at the heart of the scheme which fosters a calmer, more inviting workplace atmosphere. A carefully considered planting strategy carried out by Benholm makes the space feel visually rich while remaining highly functional.

To create impact, a series of integrated planting and preserved-based installations were positioned throughout the office:

Entrance Arrival Feature

A striking preserved green wall with a silhouette of Royal London’s signature pelican was installed at the main entrance, with climbing foliage fixed to a grid mesh panel to create a strong first impression and set a welcoming tone for both staff and visitors.

Bespoke Lighting Feature with Preserved Planting

Designed as a centrepiece for the canteen area, a sculptural, curvilinear lighting feature with cascading preserved plants adds movement, warmth and a strong biophilic presence while serving a functional purpose – to soften light.

Ceiling Troughs

Burnt orange ceiling troughs filled with preserved ivy further add to the ongoing colour scheme and provide a bold contrast against crisp white backgrounds, reducing visual stress and adding depth overhead.

Seating Booths 

Dark cornflower blue, ribbed booth seating is complemented by bespoke wooden cabinet-top planters, which act as natural dividers between spaces, creating privacy while maintaining an open, organic feel.

THE RESULT

The revitalised Royal London workplace illustrates the transformative power of a thoughtful planting scheme, enhancing not only the physical environment but the end-user experience. The integration of preserved and organic materials creates a strong visual identity, while providing a practical, low-maintenance solution that supports wellbeing without impacting daily operations.

Organic textures and nature-inspired tones soften the interior, introducing a real sense of balance and calm that reduces visual stress, improves concentration and supports productivity within a busy office setting. This high-impact approach fosters a more positive and engaging daily experience for employees.

Beyond the office’s new visual appeal, the redesign strengthens alignment with Royal London’s ethos, a modern, people-driven and sustainable workspace. From collaborative communal zones to quieter individual workspaces, every element encourages connection, enhances mental clarity and reinforces a shared sense of purpose.

PROJECT TEAM

MPACT Group | Form | Jason Baker Designs | Howe Ceilings | Shaw Contract | Orangebox | Komfort | Source Developments

LETS COLLABORATE:

If you’re designing or delivering scheme where planting can elevate communal spaces and enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors, Benholm can support you from early design development through to installation and long-term care.

To start a conversation, call us on 01324 861300 or email sales@benholm.com

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