The Trust, which took ownership the building, between Bond Street and Newton Street, in 2016, has funded the fit-out programme by re-designing the areas it previously occupied, releasing more than 800 sq m of available office space which has now been let to other occupiers.

The space occupied by The Trust’s 120 employees had previously been spread over 3 floors at Ropewalks. The entire operation has now been consolidated on just one floor in a bright, vibrant layout which connects all employees and brings domestic and urban design ideas into the workplace.

The office fit out is now complete and phase 2 of the project is underway to create an inviting 200 sq m (2,152 sq ft) space where customers and members of the public can meet for support, information and social events in a supportive and private environment. This phase is due to complete before the end of October.

David Wilcock, practice director at BAND Architects, which handled the project said: “Our concept taps into the growing trend of bringing domestic, urban design ideas into the workplace and creating open working environments. Enclosed spaces have been used to define routes and form smaller, domestic scaled zones for staff to collaborate within the large linear floorplate. Subtle, natural and calming materials were utilised within the core working areas, and more vibrantly considered ‘pods’ are cleverly distributed throughout the space to create a variety of destinations for private work and team meetings.”

Tim Pinder, chief executive of Peaks & Plains Housing Trust, said: “The design delivered by BAND Architects reflects Peaks & Plain’s identity and the whole team is absolutely delighted with it. We believe that living and working in a well-designed space improves people’s quality of life and productivity.”

Specialist commercial fit out contractor, Brown and Bancroft Interiors were appointed to deliver the scheme and Kinnarps supplied and installed the furniture.