The Law Society of England and Wales plays a pivotal role in advocating for solicitors across Wales, representing their interests to key stakeholders, including in the Senedd and Westminster. After 22-years of service, the Cardiff office, the Society’s Welsh hub, was in need of significant refurbishment. Following a comprehensive, competitive tendering process, Powell was named the preferred supplier for this project. The aim was to create a modern, functional space, reflecting the Society’s professional ethos while meeting the evolving needs of its staff and visitors.
From the outset, Powell’s design team, led by Georgia Davies, focused on understanding the specific needs and aspirations of The Law Society. The existing office was outdated and no longer met the demands of a modern workplace. The primary objectives were to create a versatile, welcoming environment that could seamlessly transition between different functions, from hosting large events to supporting day-to-day operations.
Georgia Davies explains:
“Our client needed to make a bold, professional statement, and that always starts in the reception area, where members and visitors get their very first impression. By removing existing partition walls, we opened the space, allowing vast amounts of natural light to flood in. This approach was carried throughout the entire building, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. The benefits of natural light and connections to the outdoors cannot be overstated. Research consistently shows that these elements improve mental well-being, productivity, contentment, and much more.”
Powell’s approach to this project, as with all our work, was to work hand-in-glove with the client. We understand that visualising significant changes, such as the removal of existing walls, can be challenging. This is why we employ such a wide range of visual tools, ensuring clients have the best possible understanding of what success will look like. This includes digital walkthroughs, physical swatches, and furniture testing – which can be achieved in Powell’s Cardiff showroom. This collaborative effort ensured that the final design was not only aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, but that all parties had a joint-vision of success.
Georgia Davies again:
“Welcoming areas are among the most vital spaces to get right. Visitors only have one chance to form a first impression, so it was crucial to ensure that the space was well-designed, functional and aligned with our client’s expectations. The initial proposed change was a significant one, with the removal of 22-year-old walls. The walkthroughs were crucial then, to imparting the effectiveness of this office modification. Utilising the latest design software, we built a digital 3D model that included a variety of furniture options, flooring styles, and décor – presenting Jonathan and his team with a realistic preview of how their office could transform in the coming months. Following the walkthrough, the Law Society senior team were invited to our Cardiff showroom to see, touch and test some of our proposed furniture. This is the most effective possible way to help clients understand why we’re proposing certain pieces. On top of that, our showroom, and the experience we’re able to provide there really help.”
Powell removed several partition walls that previously made the unused reception area feel confined, confused and maze-like. Where required, these were replaced with glazed walls, instantly making the room feel more spacious and allowing that all-important natural light to flow freely. Effective zoning is critical to ensuring that spaces facilitate efficient working, while maintaining clearly defined areas – this was achieved by using various flooring styles and materials, allowing workstations to be separate from breakout spaces. The design also included a variety of seating options, from soft seating for informal chats to high stools at the kitchen island for quick meetings, ensuring that the space could be used for multiple purposes, no matter the time of day, or function underway. A key, creative addition was the incorporation of images taken by one of the client’s employees, a keen photographer. Powell suggested using these photos, which depicted the local area, in large-format prints on the office walls. This added a personal touch and further connected the workers to their surroundings.
One of the standout features of the refurbishment was the inception and creation of a versatile conference space. Like most big cities, space in Cardiff is at a premium, so the design needed to accommodate a range of functions, from board meetings to staff celebrations. This flexibility empowered the client to use their own space rather than resorting to external venues. The furniture was carefully chosen to support this adaptability, with stackable chairs and flip tables that could be easily stored when not in use. The seating, which was tested by our client in our Cardiff showroom, was also specified for the high levels of comfort, even over long-periods of time. To further enhance versatility and comfort, the room’s ambiance is also adjustable, thanks to smart, LED lighting, which can switch from standard task lighting, to multi-coloured options for different events. Another unique aspect of the design was the treatment of structural columns, which had been overlooked in the original office layout. Powell transformed these elements into striking features by applying a textured, cement-effect wall covering and cladding them with wooden baffles arranged in a diagonal pattern. Functional, beautiful.
Jonathan Davies, Head of Wales for The Law Society:
“Powell delivered a space that perfectly meets our needs, on time, under budget, and with a level of professionalism that is second-to-none. Feedback from building management was particularly positive, with several parties (from other tenants to reception and more) repeatedly remarking on how conscientious and polite Powell workers were. That feedback mirrors our own experience with them – Powell have been extremely accommodating, and working with them has been a real pleasure.”
The success of the project was highlighted during the first event held in the refurbished office. Our client hosted an event with 75-members, and the transformed atmosphere has been apparent.
Jonathan Davies concludes:
“Previously, accommodating large groups had been challenging, but now the space has received high praise from staff and clients alike – with people commenting especially on the light, airy and creative nature of the space, as well as its versatility. It flows well, it makes our members feel more valued, and it facilitates better communication, rapport and outcomes. We really couldn’t have asked for more than that. The space is absolutely perfect.”
Powell’s refurbishment of The Law Society’s Cardiff office is a prime example of how thoughtful design and a client-focused approach can nurture excellent working
relationships, and transform spaces for the better. This project has not only revitalised our client’s office space, but has enhanced its function and appeal. The successful collaboration between The Law Society and Powell has resulted in an office space that fit for purpose, ethical, creative and futureproofed – perhaps more than that, a space that is more effective, and a true to the values of this important organisation.
