Case Study
Perfectly formed, interior design agency Urban DNA aims to get under the skin of a problem. They offer practical, intuitive, ergonomic solutions to issues that vex company managers.
An example of their pragmatic style comes from a legal client, who asked the team to combat the piles of files and papers that were left on top of cupboards around the office. The overflowing paper was getting to everyone, so Urban DNA commissioned curved tops for cupboards to stop the paper trail mounting up. Simple.
Urban DNA’s experience is sure to be called upon more in the year ahead. “People and property are most companies’ greatest assets but also their greatest overheads. In the current climate maximising productivity can be achieved through intelligent workplace design and a reduced property overhead,” says Managing Director Nigel Sikora.
The team of five moved to Globe Quay from Harrogate in June 2008, to be closer to their clients. Nigel explains, “90% of our clients are based in Leeds and we wanted to be nearby for them to drop in and see us. “But for Urban DNA’s own productivity and growth, the decision to relocate into Holbeck Urban Village has already reaped further rewards.
“We’re now in a beautiful converted mill next to the landmark Tower Works – distinctive because it has a factory chimney styled on Giotto’s Tower in Florence which I love to look at each day. We’re closer to our clients and we’re also right in the heart of an area that happens to be one of the city’s best kept secrets.”
“Moving here has been an enabler to the business; the local supply chain is excellent, from printers to architects; we’re close to the main rail and road links, and whilst we feel part of the city, it’s also good to be part of a smaller local community.”
“It’s close to the city centre, but just off the beaten track, a combination we find really refreshing.”
