Blog Courtesy of Interaction
Designed and delivered by Interaction between August and November 2024, Ecosurety’s new Bristol headquarters was conceived as a physical reflection of the company’s environmental values. As the UK’s leading sustainable packaging compliance scheme and host of the award-winning recycling podcast Talking Rubbish, sustainability was expected to sit at the centre of every design decision.
Recognised with the Sustainable Workplace Design of the Year award at the Workspace Design Show Awards 2026, the project transformed the outdated offices at 4 Colston Avenue into a highly sustainable, wellbeing-focused workplace shaped around circular economy principles, flexibility and inclusivity.
Interaction was appointed as design and build partner due to the shared B Corp values between both companies and the practice’s experience delivering people-focused sustainable workplaces. The refurbishment formed part of a wider ambition to improve Bristol’s built environment through sustainable retrofit and responsible workplace design.
The workplace is organised into three distinct “biomes” inspired by natural ecosystems: Rainforest, Marine and Savannah. Each area introduces its own atmosphere, colour palette and sensory experience to support different working styles, moods and levels of concentration. Open collaborative settings sit alongside quieter focus zones, breakout spaces and wellbeing areas, creating a workplace that supports both community and individual choice.
Inclusivity was embedded throughout the project. Clear spatial zoning and sensory cues help support neurodiverse employees, while dedicated wellbeing facilities provide flexible spaces for prayer, breastfeeding or quiet retreat.
Circularity guided every aspect of the design and delivery process. An estimated 99% of the existing furniture was reused, repurposed or refreshed, significantly reducing waste and embodied carbon. Existing materials and furniture were intentionally retained where possible, including the restoration of the original oak boardroom table, with one corner deliberately left untouched to preserve part of the company’s history.
The project also incorporated a wide range of recycled and low-impact materials, including cork acoustic finishes, hemp lighting, fabrics produced from recycled fishing nets and terrazzo made using recycled white goods. Bristol artist Rose Vickers created bespoke artwork from recycled rulers, reinforcing the project’s commitment to reuse and storytelling.
Innovation extended beyond material specification. Interaction worked directly with suppliers to improve product afterlife strategies and encourage clearer end-of-life guidance within the supply chain. QR codes integrated throughout the office also provide educational insight into the sustainability decisions behind the project, creating a workplace that actively communicates its environmental principles to both employees and visitors.
The new headquarters has already had a measurable impact on employee engagement and workplace experience. Office attendance increased by 47% year-on-year following occupation, despite no changes to the company’s flexible working policy. The workspace now supports a variety of working patterns while strengthening community, collaboration and connection to both nature and the city.
Through circular procurement, biophilic design and a strong focus on wellbeing, Interaction’s work for Ecosurety demonstrates how sustainability-led workplaces can be both highly functional and deeply human.