London design teams and workplace buyers now have a dedicated on-site testbed after Steelcase reopened its WorkLife Studio in Clerkenwell, offering a place to trial configurations and observe how design affects people and performance.
The refreshed studio brings the company’s recent workplace research and product thinking into a physical setting in the heart of Clerkenwell. Steelcase positions the space so clients can see how different layouts, surfaces and technologies interact with daily work rhythms and staff needs.
"Visitors will discover seven interconnected zones, including collaborative neighbourhoods, technology-enabled meeting spaces, a co-design studio, a WorkCafé and flexible event areas," said Steelcase workplace strategy and design lead consultant Anisha Patel. "The new space provides an opportunity to exchange ideas, discover the research and insights shaping the future of work, and experience first-hand how thoughtful design can enhance wellbeing, collaboration and performance."
Steelcase says the redesign is a response to current workplace pressures, among them heavier screen use, shrinking attention spans, the rise of AI and a widening wellbeing challenge. The interior relies on organic materials and wood to add warmth, pairs a soft colour palette with plentiful plants, and balances areas for focused private work with zones intended to encourage team collaboration and belonging.
The company shaped the layout through research and workshops, aiming to accommodate diverse working styles and preferences. Built to operate as a living laboratory, the Clerkenwell site will host practical trials of new concepts and act as a forum where customers, designers and creators can share findings.
Visitors will be able to meet Steelcase experts, observe products in situ and take part in co-design sessions to test fit-for-purpose solutions. The studio is open to the public, and Steelcase intends to collect evidence from on-site use to refine its workplace offerings.
Next steps for the company are to continue testing concepts at the studio and translate the insights gathered into future products and services, keeping customer feedback central to design iteration and product planning.
