Global Tech and Media Company
Global Tech and Media Company
Location
London, Amsterdam, Paris, Vienna, Hamburg
Size
102,000 sq. ft.
Services Provided
FF&E Procurement & Curation
Reimagining Heritage: A Historic Parisian Building Transformed
When a leading global technology company chose a historic Hôtel Particulier on rue d’Aguesseau in Paris’s 8th arrondissement as its new European headquarters, the challenge was to create a workspace that respected centuries of heritage while meeting modern needs, housing everything from a 70-seat auditorium to a rooftop greenhouse within a listed property.
K2 Space was appointed as FF&E procurement partner, working alongside a renowned French architect to curate furniture and finishes that balanced preservation with contemporary functionality. The programme required coordination with 32 different manufacturers, each selected for their craftsmanship, sustainability credentials, and ability to complement the building’s architectural character. Despite the complexity, the full installation was completed within a focused four-week window, delivering a workspace that feels both timeless and modern.
Contemporary Comfort, Rooted in Architectural Heritage
Every furniture and material choice reflected a deep respect for the building’s architectural heritage. Its elegant proportions, ornate ironwork, and classical detailing demanded an approach that complemented rather than competed with the existing structure.
Clean lines and natural materials created a dialogue between old and new, while a restrained contemporary aesthetic introduced calm modernity. Carefully chosen statement pieces added character and warmth to each floor.
The result was a workspace that supports multiple working styles, from formal boardrooms to relaxed social areas and quiet focus zones. Each floor has its own atmosphere while maintaining a cohesive design narrative throughout.
Respecting History, Embracing Innovation
The Hôtel Particulier’s listed status meant that every intervention had to be carefully negotiated between preservation and progress. Original plasterwork, ceiling roses, and herringbone parquet floors were restored and retained, while new elements were introduced with a light touch to ensure reversibility and minimal impact on the historic fabric.
Innovation emerged through thoughtful spatial planning rather than dramatic structural change. Discreet acoustic treatments were integrated behind period panelling, modern AV infrastructure was concealed within restored joinery, and flexible power solutions were routed beneath original floors. A rooftop greenhouse and 70-seat auditorium were delivered within the building’s existing envelope, demonstrating that heritage constraints can inspire rather than limit creative solutions.
The approach proved that a workspace can honour its past while performing for the future, creating an environment where centuries-old craftsmanship and contemporary working culture coexist seamlessly.
Logistics Within Listed Building Constraints
Listed building regulations imposed strict delivery constraints. Every installation had to align with conservation requirements, protecting original ironwork, navigating the building’s ornate wrought-iron staircases, and coordinating access through three stair cores and two lift shafts. Our team planned delivery routes and installation sequences months ahead.
The project required constant coordination with the design team, project managers, and specialist consultants. We specified furniture that could adapt to the building’s physical constraints: stackable seating for the 70-seat auditorium, foldable tables for flexible event configurations, and pieces that could be relocated as team needs evolved.
Created with Purpose, Delivered with Precision
As lead design team, we developed the spatial strategy, interior design scheme and FF&E specification. From the early concept visuals to supplier procurement, our team handled every aspect of the furniture curation and installation.
We worked in close coordination with contractors and client teams to meet a tight delivery timeline, maintaining design integrity throughout. Our approach was hands-on, flexible and responsive to adjust to evolving priorities while protecting the initial vision.
Sustainability and Strategic Reuse
Conservation principles guided sustainability decisions. We coordinated the relocation and reintegration of furniture from the company’s other European offices, giving high-quality pieces a second life in Paris, including Orangebox tables and Vitra lounge chairs. This approach aligned with the building’s own story of rehabilitation and adaptation.
As the project progressed, sustainability became a defining focus. We introduced low-impact materials, prioritised furniture with longevity and repairability while maximising natural light and air circulation.
Biophilic elements were layered in, not just for aesthetics, but to support wellbeing and comfort across the working day. From material selection to spatial rhythm, the entire environment was designed with the people in mind, both those already part of the organisation and those it hopes to attract in the future.
