When global creative agency VML prepared to move into the prestigious Sea Containers House on London’s Southbank, they required a partner who could transform 11,000 sq ft of space across multiple levels into a brand-ready environment on a compressed timeline. As a JCT Design & Build project, LFO was tasked with delivering a phased CAT B fit-out over 14 weeks. The primary objective for Phase 1 was to ensure that by move-in day, the office felt unmistakably like a “VML space,” even while longer-term design elements were still being phased in.

The project involved a meticulous “back-to-basics” approach to the building’s shell. To achieve the desired industrial aesthetic, LFO stripped back existing finishes to expose the raised access flooring, which was then cleaned, polished, and repaired to a high-specification finish. We also carried out the intumescent painting of the visible structural steel columns and beams across all levels, providing a cohesive, raw architectural feel. This technical groundwork was balanced with a complete overhaul of the power and data infrastructure to support a high-density headcount of over 600 workstations.

To inject the VML identity into the space immediately, LFO executed a series of targeted design interventions. This included the removal of outdated graphics and lockers, followed by the vinyl wrapping of all existing timber meeting room doors, frames, and side panels in a sleek matte black. A key cultural element was the integration of VML’s signature “Magnetic Boards”—highly valued tools for team collaboration—which required our team to develop bespoke fixing methods to secure them to the Sea Containers’ unique building structure.

Working within the iconic Sea Containers building required exceptional logistical management. LFO successfully navigated the phased 14-week duration by coordinating structural modifications—such as the removal of full-height glazed partitions and large central meeting rooms—alongside the installation of new lighting and services that seamlessly matched the existing exposed ceiling aesthetic. By delivering these high-impact changes while maintaining building functionality, LFO provided VML with a “Day One” workspace that immediately empowered their creative teams and reflected their global brand energy.