6 Inspiring Financial Service Office Designs

Having specialised in financial services for the past 20 years, we’re excited to share examples of fit out and furniture projects we’ve completed in this sector and showcase of the best in office design and build. Our approach to office design is entirely unique – each project tailored to the client’s specific needs and aspirations, not constrained by a formula.

With extensive experience meeting the unique requirements of financial services firms, we focus on delivering office design, fit-out, and furniture solutions tailored to each company. Over the years, we’ve developed a particular expertise in working with private equity firms, boutique banks, and asset management firms – where quality of finishes and furniture are paramount. A thoughtfully designed office can enhance employee productivity and workplace well-beign, ultimately supporting a company’s success. Additionally, modern office design plays a vital role in promoting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values, a growing priority for investors.

Below are six financial services projects that exemplify London office fit-outs in this sector, including Rolls Royce Partners Finance, PTJ Partners, LLCP, and Victory Hill. We’ve also undertaken confidential projects, including a US Investment Firm, a Hedge Fund, and a Private Equity Firm in Mayfair.

Our intention is provide useful insights and guidance for companies in the early planning stages of office moves or refurbishments so we’ve include our fit out guide below.

1. Private Equity Firm, Mayfair

This bespoke project for a leading global private equity firm, located in London’s prestigious Mayfair district, required a flagship boardroom and collaborative spaces that would reflect the firm’s commitment to excellence and sophistication. Spanning 5,000 sq. ft., the office was designed to serve as a high-end meeting environment suited for pivotal decision-making and client presentations.

The focal point of the boardroom is a custom-designed 9.2-meter Corian table, complete with a luxurious leather inlay. This stunning piece combines functionality and style, establishing a refined atmosphere that aligns with the firm’s professional image. The table is complemented by ergonomically designed black leather chairs, providing both comfort and ease of movement for long meetings. The seating arrangement is strategically placed around dual large-format screens, which are seamlessly integrated into the space for enhanced presentations and video conferencing capabilities.

To further enhance the boardroom’s functionality, the room features acoustic paneling and well-placed LED lighting, minimising both noise and glare. Biophilic design elements, such as greenery accents near the windows, bring a touch of nature into the room, creating a calm and inviting space. Black-and-white artwork adds a final sophisticated touch to this tailored workspace, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to prestige and attention to detail.

This project highlights K2 Space’s expertise in crafting unique, technology-enabled spaces that balance elegance and function, supporting the needs of high-profile financial firms.

2. US Hedge Fund, London Office Expansion

As a longstanding client of ours, this prominent US hedge fund sought to expand its London office to better support its growing team and operational needs. Located in SW1, the 25,000 sq. ft. office was designed to blend functionality with a sophisticated aesthetic, aiming to create an environment that reflected the dynamic nature of the financial services industry while supporting collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being.

K2 Space focused on creating a series of versatile workspaces. Central to the design were communal and social areas, including a modern kitchenette and breakout zones that fostered a productive yet relaxed atmosphere. The office featured ergonomic furnishings throughout, balancing comfort and style to meet the high standards expected by the client.

In designing the meeting spaces, natural light and panoramic London views were utilised to create a collaborative setting. Round tables, comfortable seating, and seamless tech integration supported open dialogue and teamwork, embodying the client’s commitment to transparency and connectivity. Glass-walled meeting rooms offered the right balance of privacy and openness, providing enclosed spaces without a sense of isolation.

The result was was a high-end cutting edge, technology-equipped space that aligned with the brand’s values and support their operational goals.

3. Rolls Royce Partners Finance

The Rolls Royce Partners Finance HQ fit-out is an excellent example of how successful office design can be achieved in the financial services sector. The partnership between Rolls Royce and K2 Space resulted in a workspace that is both functional and visually appealing.

One of the standout features of the design is the use of high-quality materials such as black glass, white marble, and timber floors. These materials not only add a touch of elegance to the space but also create defined work areas while allowing natural light to enhance the space.

The full-height graphics reception area is a stunning feature that creates a lasting impression and makes for an impressive entrance. The kitchen/breakout area also features high benching, which is perfect for informal meetings and allows staff to gather in a relaxed setting.

Attention to detail and the integration of modern design elements were crucial in delivering a world-class space that reflects the values and quality of the Rolls Royce brand. Overall, the partnership between Rolls Royce and K2 Space resulted in a modern and elegant workspace that exemplifies successful office design in the financial services sector.

4. Platinum Equity

Platinum Equity, a global private equity powerhouse, sought a workspace that mirrored the prestige of their brand while accommodating their expanding London team. Tasked with this vision, K2 Space created an 11,000 sq. ft. office in Mayfair, designed with a high-end, boutique hotel aesthetic. The design included client-focused meeting rooms, a lounge with concierge services, and refined, timeless finishes that aligned with the company’s core values.

Working closely with Platinum’s LA-based design team, K2 Space delivered an environment that fosters collaboration and enhances client experiences. The office layout encourages impromptu interactions among team members, creating a lively, interactive workspace. By achieving near-full staff attendance, Platinum’s new facility reinforces the benefits of in-office engagement and embodies a space where employees feel motivated to work and connect.

The new Mayfair office demonstrates how tailored office design can support a company’s image and goals. Through K2’s thoughtful integration of luxury elements and functional spaces, Platinum Equity now offers both clients and employees an inspiring, top-tier environment that reflects their elite standing in the private equity sector.

5. Victory Hill

The Victory Hill office fit-out, located in the heart of Mayfair, is a great example of a successful office design in the financial services sector. The space is a perfect blend of historical significance and contemporary design, maintaining the building’s historical relevance while creating a modern and functional workspace for Victory Hill.One of the key design elements was the use of natural light, creating a warm and welcoming reception area that showcases Victory Hill’s brand signage with back-painted glass.

The meeting rooms are also designed to impress, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass dividers with frosted glass manifestations, ribbed soft black leather upholstered conference chairs, and dark wood conference tables, all incorporating the latest conferencing tech.The open-plan workstations have been carefully designed to maintain the aesthetic of the space while ensuring practicality with cable management and under-desk pedestals. Additionally, the lockers area has been kept to the edges and in a partition behind the print point to maintain a clean and modern look.

The Victory Hill office fit-out is a great example of how a carefully considered and well-executed office design can maintain historical relevance while creating a modern and efficient workspace. Financial service companies looking to design their new office can take inspiration from this space, with its focus on natural light, contemporary design elements, and practicality.

6. PJT

K2 Space recently completed a project for a boutique US investment firm, PJT. The project was designing their new 12,000 square-foot office space in London’s West End, and an additional 7,000 square feet to accommodate their growing team. This case study presents an excellent example of how a financial service company can benefit from a well-designed office space. The main goal of the project was to create a modern and elegant office design that would feature the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art IT infrastructure.

The design was in part used to encourage PJT’s staff to return to the office post-pandemic and promote a sense of community and collaboration.K2 Space fulfilled this brief by designing an office that features white glass-topped desks from Knoll, with dark metal frames and glazed walls to create an open and transparent feel. The new office was designed with subtle elegance in mind, using a muted colour palette and high-quality finishes throughout. The new office design also incorporated state-of-the-art IT infrastructure, with dual screens throughout the trading floor and meeting rooms to facilitate efficient communication and collaboration. The result was a modern and efficient workspace that reflected PJT’s brand identity and supported its business objectives.

The successful completion of the project was a testament to K2 Space’s expertise in designing and fitting out modern and functional workspaces. The new office has provided PJT with an environment that fosters collaboration and productivity and has helped the company to re-establish a sense of community in the post-pandemic world. For a financial service company looking to move offices and design their new office, the case of PJT fit-out provides a valuable lesson. It shows how a well-designed office space can contribute to the success of the company by fostering collaboration and productivity among employees. It also demonstrates how the use of high-quality materials and state-of-the-art IT infrastructure can create a modern and efficient workspace that reflects the company’s brand identity and supports its business objectives.

Distinguishing Features of Office Design in the Financial Services Sector

1. High-End Materials and Finishes: Premium materials that reflect the upscale nature of the sector.
2. Client-Facing Areas: Spaces like barista stations, wine cellars, informal lounges, and in-house dining areas to enhance client experience.
3. Privacy and Confidentiality: Secure spaces such as private offices, soundproofed meeting rooms, and other features to ensure confidentiality.
4. Advanced Technology: Robust tech setups, including video conferencing suites, smart office features, and screens to support data-driven operations.
5. ESG and Sustainability: Commitment to environmental standards like BREEAM, WELL, or LEED to support sustainable practices.
6. Prestige and Brand Alignment: Bespoke furniture, high-end decor, and luxurious design details that align with the firm’s identity and reinforce exclusivity.
7. Enhanced Client and Employee Experience: Sophisticated reception areas, client lounges, private entertainment spaces, and wellness-focused features such as air quality systems and natural light to foster productivity.
8. Employee Facilities: Amenities like in-house gyms, quality dining areas, and personal storage to support a flexible and comfortable work environment.
9. Art and Culture Integration: Curated art collections and event spaces that foster community engagement and create a distinctive workspace atmosphere.

Companies prioritising ESG in office design not only enhance reputation and investor appeal but also benefit from reduced operating costs and improved efficiency. This approach aligns with stakeholder sustainability expectations and creates a productive workspace. For more information, see our article on ESG in the workplace.

Looking for a Turnkey Solution for Your Next Office Fit-Out?

If the case studies above have sparked ideas for your own project, we’d love to connect. Our team offers a comprehensive, turnkey solution specifically tailored for financial services firms seeking to design, fit out, and furnish their office spaces to the highest standards. From the initial space planning and furniture procurement, right through to the final design, fit-out, and completion, we handle every stage under one roof.

Our expertise spans two decades in the financial services sector, working with high-end firms like private equity, investment banks, and hedge funds. We understand the unique needs of financial firms, including the importance of quality finishes, premium materials, and thoughtful design elements that enhance productivity and reinforce your brand’s identity. Our approach ensures seamless, efficient project delivery with a single point of contact guiding you through each phase, delivering a workspace that reflects your firm’s values and supports both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

We invite you to explore how our bespoke design, fit-out, and furniture solutions can elevate your workspace and set your firm apart in a competitive market. Reach out to us to discuss your project, and let’s bring your vision to life.

For further inspiration, see our Knowledge section for articles on industry trends, ESG considerations, and Our Work for examples of cutting-edge financial office designs.