BNP Paribas

Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), BNP Paribas supports corporate and institutional clients across the region with a full range of banking and investment solutions. As part of a leading international bank with a strong global presence, the ADGM branch combines local insight with global expertise to drive sustainable and strategic growth.


FIFTH TIME FORWARD: REIMAGINING WORKSPACE

BNP Paribas, one of our long-standing and trusted clients, once again partnered with Spencer Interiors to reimagine their office space within a premium commercial tower. This fifth collaboration reflects the strength of our ongoing relationship and their confidence in our ability to deliver thoughtful, high-performance environments. Tasked with transforming two fully fitted, previously tenanted units into a seamless, unified workspace, we removed approximately 75 percent of existing partitions while retaining key features that aligned with the new vision.

By working within the constraints of an existing fit-out, we were able to optimize resources while ensuring the end result reflected a refined, future-ready workspace. The groundwork laid in this phase allowed us to transition smoothly into concept development.


BRAND EVOLUTION THROUGH DESIGN

The vision for this workspace was centred around creating a balanced environment where professional design meets human-centric details. Keeping in mind that the space would be dedicated for traders that would be working longer hours, the concept featured open-plan layouts enhanced by full-height glass partitions, allowing light and transparency to shape the space. Carefully placed indoor greenery softened the lines and brought warmth to the workplace. The design prioritised a calm atmosphere that would foster both productivity and well-being.

Breaking away from BNPP’s signature green branding, we introduced a more sophisticated palette of warm neutrals, muted tones, and natural textures. This intentional departure gave the space a distinct, curated identity tailored to its location, while still honouring the brand’s core values and design ethos.


A PROCESS ROOTED IN PURPOSE

The design process began with a simple question: how can this space work better for people, specifically traders? Our planning focused on three key pillars: teamwork, comfort, and concentration. The resulting layout made full use of the unit’s spatial potential, drawing in daylight where possible and creating flow between collaborative and private zones.

Materials played a central role in defining the look and feel of the space. We used wood effect flooring for warmth and durability, full height glass partitions for transparency, acoustic panels for sound control, and soft colour accents to infuse personality. Custom features including the company logo, curated artwork, and colour coded zones gave the workspace a distinct identity. The addition of natural plants, ergonomic furniture, and integrated smart technology brought everything together, resulting in a user focused office that is both highly functional and genuinely welcoming.


LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR FUNCTIONAL ELEGANCE

Several pivotal decisions contributed to the success of this project, beginning with the layout. Furniture planning was fully informed by the client’s operational needs, particularly the number of users and the inclusion of private offices. This shaped the configuration of partitions, circulation flow, and spatial hierarchy. The open workspace was oriented to maximise natural light, with transparent partitions allowing daylight to fill the interior while maintaining subtle separation.

The move toward an open concept encouraged collaboration, while carefully defined quiet zones supported concentration and privacy. Material choices were equally intentional. Warm finishes were selected for their durability, practicality, and alignment with the overall design vision. These considered decisions, ensured the final outcome was both efficient and refined, delivering a space that performs well every day while looking effortlessly polished.


DETAILS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

This project offered an opportunity to explore design-driven functionality in every corner. In the open-plan zones, we installed SBFI trader desks, selected for their ergonomic flexibility and clean, minimal appearance. These workstations catered to the high-tech needs of trading teams without overwhelming the visual aesthetic of the space.

Beyond workstations, comfort was layered in with greenery, natural materials, and a calming palette, creating a tactile and soothing environment. For the IT and admin teams, we designed custom shelving and storage solutions tailored to their workflows, seamlessly integrated into the overall scheme. These thoughtful details elevated the office from a generic workplace to a bespoke environment tailored to the people who use it every day.


CLIENT REFLECTIONS ON THE COMPLETED SPACE

The feedback from the client was overwhelmingly positive. They highlighted the open and flexible layout as a standout feature, noting how it transformed the overall flow and made the office feel significantly more spacious and intuitive to navigate. The pantry area also received special mention, praised for adding a relaxed and communal touch that enhanced the day-to-day experience.

One of the most appreciated aspects was the abundance of natural light. The team shared that the bright and airy atmosphere created a more uplifting and energising work environment, with a noticeable impact on morale and well-being. Overall, the new space was seen as a meaningful upgrade both aesthetically and functionally, reflecting their values and supporting their people.