Designing the heart of NCHA's new workspace: The central stairs and atrium

Here’s an insight into the thoughtful design behind the central staircase and atrium at NCHA’s new workspace, Clifton Place. Head Architect, Mike Price showcases how architecture can shape not only physical spaces but also the culture of collaboration and interaction within an organisation.

At the heart of NCHA’s new workspace lies the central staircase and atrium, a design that draws inspiration from their existing offices on Pelham Road in Nottingham. These offices, originally a series of residential properties, are connected through individual staircases that offer multiple routes throughout the building. Over the years, these staircases have become a hub for informal meetings and impromptu conversations. This unique dynamic inspired the design concept for their new workspace’s central circulation space, where we aimed to create an open and inviting environment that encourages collaboration and social interaction.

Bringing the concept to life

In designing the new office, we wanted to retain the sense of informal meetings happening naturally within the circulation space. However, the layout posed some unique challenges. The wedge-shaped plan of the building was born out of a need to maximise the developable land, pushing the boundaries as close to the overhead electric cables as safety allowed. This angled design became a defining feature of the new office.

Instead of opting for an enclosed stairwell, we located the staircase centrally within the wedge-shaped plan. This placement not only creates easy vertical and horizontal connections but also enhances the flow of the space. By keeping the stairs open and topped with a large roof light, we were able to flood the central area with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming environment. Aligning the staircase with the main route from reception ensures that it’s a focal point, while a second set of stairs helps distribute foot traffic, reducing overcrowding.

Air, light, and energy efficiency

The atrium does more than connect floors and bring in light—it also plays a vital role in the building’s air circulation. Warm, stale air is extracted through the gables of the roof light, while fresh air is introduced via heat pumps, ensuring a comfortable and energy-efficient environment. While the air conditioning system controls solar gain, fresh air can also be brought in through openable windows around the perimeter, contributing to a healthier workspace. Glare is managed through anti-glare glass, and permanent desks have been thoughtfully positioned away from the atrium to minimise distraction.

The structural challenge: stairs without posts

Designing the staircase presented its own structural challenges. We envisioned a sleek, post-free staircase to avoid cluttering the open space. The result is a spider-like frame that is supported only at the top and bottom, offering an impressive feat of engineering. Encased in birch-faced plywood, the staircase has a soft, natural finish that balances aesthetics with practicality. This material provides a sense of enclosure and safety while encouraging staff to use the stairs and foster social interactions instead of relying solely on the lift.

Lighting the way

As the seasons change and natural light fades during the winter months, the staircase and surrounding atrium are illuminated by a range of artificial lights. Three primary lights hang from the atrium roof, with motors to lower them for maintenance. Additionally, lights are positioned above the landings, and a continuous strip of lighting runs along the handrail, adding a subtle glow that enhances safety and ambience.

A space for connection

To enhance the communal atmosphere, we’ve included a small coffee station on the first floor. We also introduced glazing within the guardrails, providing a visual link between the stairs and the ground floor. A large glazed screen on the ground floor, adjacent to the sliding door into the café, can be fully opened to create a seamless connection between the café and the central atrium—a versatile space perfect for events and gatherings.

Around the edge of the staircase on the first floor, we’ve installed bespoke desks with high chairs. These workspaces are intended to be drop-in spots where staff can work without the need to book a desk, further promoting casual meetings and conversations. 

A welcoming environment for work and socialising

This central staircase and atrium aren’t just about moving people through the building—they represent the core of NCHA’s commitment to creating an environment where collaboration, social interaction, and informal meetings are encouraged at every turn. The design honours the history of their Pelham Road offices while pushing forward into a new era of workspace innovation, creating a space that we hope will inspire creativity and connection for years to come. 

If you would like to discuss design concepts, please get in touch with our architectural team.