As one of the world’s most influential media brands, Condé Nast needed a workplace that reflected their culture of innovation and creativity. Their move to the Adelphi Building in London was more than just a change in location—it was an opportunity to create a flexible and dynamic environment that would accommodate the evolving needs of their editorial and creative teams.

Led by MCM Architecture, the new office was designed to be a sophisticated yet functional space, with acoustic comfort playing a key role in creating a balanced work environment. Overbury, known for delivering high-end workplace fit-outs, was responsible for bringing this vision to life.

To help achieve MCM’s design intent, we were tasked by Overbury to install bespoke acoustic ceiling rafts, ensuring they complemented the overall aesthetic while contributing to a more comfortable and adaptable workspace

MCM Architecture’s design vision incorporated architect-specified acoustic ceiling rafts to enhance both sound quality and visual harmony in the workspace. Our role was to ensure their precise installation, working within the constraints of the building and coordinating with Overbury’s fit-out team to integrate the acoustic elements smoothly into the project.

Key objectives included:

• Maintaining design integrity, ensuring the ceiling rafts aligned seamlessly with the surrounding architecture.
• Enhancing workplace acoustics, minimising reverberation while maintaining the open-plan aesthetic.
• Coordinating across trades, working alongside lighting, AV, and M&E teams to ensure a non-disruptive installation.

Our approach was built on attention to detail, adaptability, and close collaboration with the project stakeholders.

Every high-end workplace project presents unique challenges, and Condé Nast’s new headquarters was no exception.

• • Working Within a Phased, Occupied Space: As the office was being fitted out in phases, we worked within an active workspace, ensuring minimal disruption. This required careful coordination with Overbury’s project team to install the acoustic rafts at the right time and in the right sequence

• • Structural Limitations & Fixing Considerations: The existing ceiling structure posed constraints for traditional fixing methods. To address this, we introduced custom suspension solutions, ensuring a secure yet unobtrusive installation that preserved the clean aesthetic of MCM’s design.

• • Future-Proofing for Long-Term Maintenance: To allow for future reconfiguration and access to services, we installed the ceiling rafts using a removable suspension system, making maintenance easier without compromising the final look.

Balanced Acoustic Environment – The installed ceiling rafts help control sound and improve speech clarity, making the workspace more comfortable for focused and collaborative work.

Seamless Architectural Integration – Our installation ensured the panels aligned perfectly with MCM’s contemporary design, maintaining the clean, open aesthetic.

Future-Proofed for Adaptability – The removable suspension system allows for easy access to services, supporting long-term workspace flexibility.

Sustainable Approach – The materials used align with the project’s sustainability goals, reflecting Condé Nast’s commitment to responsible design.

Condé Nast’s new London headquarters is a testament to thoughtful workplace design, combining aesthetic excellence with practical functionality. Thanks to the vision of MCM Architecture, the execution by Overbury, and our contribution in delivering a precision acoustic installation, the workspace supports the fast-paced, creative world of publishing in a way that feels effortless.

While our role in this project was just one piece of the puzzle, we’re proud to have played a part in helping bring this exceptional workplace to life.