Blueprint - FAQs

Workplace Consultancy

What is workplace consultancy and do I actually need it?

Workplace consultancy is the process of understanding how your business works — your people, your culture, your space — and using that insight to create a strategy for making it work better. If your office has evolved by accident over the years and you're not quite sure it's doing what it should, workplace consultancy is exactly where to start.

How long does a workplace consultancy project take?

It depends on the size and complexity of your organisation, but most workplace consultancy projects run over several weeks. We take the time to do it properly, capturing real data, analysing what it tells us and developing a strategy that's worth acting on. Good things take a little time.

What data do you collect during a workplace consultancy?

We capture meaningful data on how your people feel about where they work, covering everything from wellbeing and engagement to productivity and culture. It's honest, human insight that shapes everything that follows.

What's the difference between workplace consultancy and workplace design?

Think of workplace consultancy as the thinking stage and workplace design as the doing stage. Consultancy uncovers the insight and builds the strategy. Design takes that strategy and turns it into a space. They work brilliantly together, and we do both.

Can workplace consultancy help us prepare for a hybrid working model?

Absolutely. In fact, it's one of the things we help with most. Understanding how your people split their time between home and office — and what they actually need from each — is exactly the kind of insight a good workplace consultancy will give you.

Workplace design

What does a workplace design service include?

Our workplace design service covers everything from initial space planning and concept development through to detailed design, material specification and visualisations. We design every element around how your people actually work, so the result is a space that looks brilliant and functions even better.

How do you make sure the design reflects our company culture?

We listen, properly. Before we design a single thing, we spend time understanding who you are, how you work and what makes your business tick. Your culture shapes every decision we make, from the layout and furniture to the colours, finishes and the little details that make a space feel unmistakably yours.

Can you design for hybrid and agile working?

It's one of our specialities. We design flexible, activity-based environments that give your people real choice over how and where they work — from focused solo working to open collaboration — so your office becomes somewhere worth coming into, every single day.

Do you design with sustainability in mind?

Always. From responsibly sourced materials and energy-efficient design decisions to biophilic elements and WELL Building Standard principles, sustainability is woven into our design process from the very start. Good for your people, good for the planet.

How long does the workplace design process take?

Every project is different, but as a guide, most workplace design projects take between six and twelve weeks from initial brief to completed design. We work at the pace that's right for you, keeping things moving without ever rushing the details that matter.

Project management

What does a workplace project manager actually do?

A lot, as it turns out. Our project managers coordinate every consultant, contractor and supplier involved in your project, manage your budget and programme, oversee site delivery and make sure everything comes together on time and to the highest possible standard.

Do I need a separate project manager if Blueprint is already designing and fitting out my space?

When you work with Blueprint end-to-end, project management is built into everything we do. Our team coordinates the entire process from first brief to final handover, so there are no gaps, no miscommunications and no unwelcome surprises along the way.

How do you manage project budgets and timelines?

Very carefully. We track every penny and every milestone throughout your project, flagging potential risks early and keeping everything moving in the right direction. Our clients receive regular updates so they always know exactly where their project stands.

What happens if something goes wrong on site?

We deal with it — quickly, calmly and without drama. Having an experienced project management team on site means problems get spotted early and sorted fast. It's one of the real benefits of working with a team that's been doing this for 25 years.

Do you manage workplace relocations as part of your project management service?

We do. From planning and logistics through to furniture installation and post-move support, we manage workplace relocations from start to finish, making sure the whole experience is exciting for you and your team.

Fit out & Refurbishment

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What's the difference between a CAT A and CAT B fit out?

A CAT A fit out covers the essential building fabric — ceilings, lighting, flooring and core mechanical and electrical systems. It's the blank canvas. A CAT B fit out is where the magic happens, bringing in the design, furniture, branding and all the details that turn a blank canvas into a workplace your people will love.

How long does an office fit out take?

It depends on the size and complexity of your project, but as a guide, most office fit outs take between eight and twenty weeks on site. We plan every project meticulously so your programme is as tight as it can be, without ever cutting corners on quality.

Can you carry out a fit out while we're still using the office?

In many cases, yes. We've delivered plenty of phased fit outs that allow businesses to keep operating throughout the process. It takes careful planning and clear communication, both of which we're very good at.

How do you make sure a fit out stays on budget?

Detailed planning, transparent pricing and proactive cost management throughout. We agree a clear budget at the start of your project and work hard to protect it, flagging any potential changes early so there are no unwelcome surprises when the invoice arrives.

What happens after the fit out is complete?

We don't disappear the moment the last tile goes down. We carry out a thorough handover, support your team through the move and stick around to make sure everything is working exactly as it should. A great fit out should feel brilliant from day one, and keep on feeling that way.

Furniture & Technology

What workspace furniture brands do you work with?

We're a proud Steelcase partner, one of only a handful of companies in the UK to hold that status. We also work with a carefully selected range of other leading manufacturers, giving us access to some of the best furniture on the market across every style, budget and specification.

How do you choose the right furniture for our workspace?

We start by understanding your people, your space and how you work. From there, we draw on our market knowledge and manufacturer relationships to build a specification that's considered, cost-effective and perfectly suited to your needs. Every recommendation is made for a reason.

Can you supply and install workplace technology as well as furniture?

Absolutely. We work closely with specialist technology partners to design and deliver fully integrated workplace technology solutions, from video conferencing and interactive displays to room booking systems and digital signage. Everything joined up and working beautifully together.

What is a Steelcase Platinum Partner and why does it matter?

Steelcase are the global leaders in workplace furniture. The people who've spent decades researching how humans work and turning those insights into outstanding products. As a Steelcase partner, we sit at the very top of their partner network, with unrivalled product knowledge, full access to their entire range and a direct relationship with the people who make it all happen. For you, that means the best of Steelcase, specified and delivered by people who really know their stuff.

Do you offer acoustic solutions as part of your furniture service?

We do. Acoustics are one of those things that make an enormous difference to how a space feels and functions. And we specify beautiful, functional acoustic products that manage noise, protect focus and make your workplace a more pleasant place to spend the day.

Well building standard advisory.

What is the WELL Building Standard?

The WELL Building Standard is a globally recognised framework for designing and operating workplaces that support the health, wellbeing and performance of the people in them. Developed over a decade by public health professionals and building scientists, it covers ten concepts — Air, Water, Light, Thermal Comfort, Sound, Materials, Nourishment, Movement, Mind and Community — and awards certification at Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level.

What are the benefits of WELL certification for my business?

The benefits are wide-ranging and very real. WELL certified workplaces are proven to improve employee wellbeing, reduce absenteeism and increase productivity. They also help businesses attract and retain talent, demonstrate a genuine commitment to people and stand out in an increasingly competitive market. It's an investment in your people that pays for itself many times over.

How long does it take to achieve WELL certification?

Timelines vary depending on the scope and ambition of your project, but most WELL certification journeys take between twelve and eighteen months from assessment to award. We'll give you a clear picture of what to expect at the very start of the process, and keep you on track every step of the way.

Do we need to be building a new office to pursue WELL certification?

Far from it. WELL certification can be pursued in existing workplaces as well as new builds and fit outs. Whether you're planning a full refurbishment or looking to improve your current space, we can help you understand what's achievable and map out the most effective route to certification.

What does a WELL accredited practitioner do?

A WELL accredited practitioner — which our team includes — guides organisations through every stage of the WELL certification process. From initial assessment and strategy through to implementation support, verification and ongoing monitoring, we're with you throughout, making the whole process as clear, manageable and rewarding as possible.