Universal Design Studio and Map relocate to office that showcases their process

Architecture and interior design practice Universal Design Studio has completed its own office interior and that of its sister company Map Project Office.

The offices for both companies have relocated to the third-floor of a Clerkenwell block where they share an open-plan 1,020 square-metre space.

Universal Design Studio and industrial design consultancy Map created the office "in close collaboration", with a series of common areas to encourage conversation.

The intention was to "invert the traditional office" and offer "transparent views into the studios' working processes" rather than drawing a distinction between silo-ed private offices and underused public areas.

Shared spaces include project and meeting rooms, a reception area that can be converted into an exhibition space, two workshops including a new rapid prototyping facility, and a materials library.

The design emphasises "open-plan common areas where teams can collaborate, make, test and create".

The combined offices also have a large communal kitchen and event space.