Brief 

Working in partnership with Building Consultancy at Hartlepool Borough Council, DKS provided architectural and interior design services to assist with the redesign of the entrance foyer and reception areas to the Civic Centre.  The client requested an innovative solution to providing a relaxed welcoming environment in contrast to the existing reception booths.

Solution

The anticipated route of members of the public was analysed identifying an organically shaped flow of people throughout the existing space.  In response to this an elliptical shaped quiet area was identified in the centre of the space ideal for the public to wait and have informal meetings with members of the public.  Around the outside of the room curved walls replicating the elliptical shape housed reception counters and private interview rooms all looking into the central waiting space to ensure continuous natural surveillance.