Chris Stewart Group showcases high-tech office pods as part of Greenside refurbishment

Property developer, Chris Stewart Group (CSG) has teamed up with design company Orangebox, to showcase an innovative pod system for free standing meeting rooms and private spaces at its Greenside office renovation in Edinburgh.

A sample of the Orangebox award-winning Air3 acoustic pod range has been installed at Greenside to show prospective tenants how they might use the space in creative ways. Set against the drama and richness of the buildings exposed ‘waffle’ ceiling, CSG hopes the movable, high-tech pod will attract today’s generation of technology companies that require flexibility and inspiration in the workplace.

Greenside is currently being refurbished by CSG to provide 35,000 sq ft of grade A office accommodation over five floors.  While prospective tenants can opt for a more traditional office fit-out, the developer, which has brought a fresh perspective to many of Edinburgh’s heritage properties, also sees potential in a more industrial, contemporary finish.

The building sits in an enviable leafy position at the foot of Calton Hill and has a number of unique qualities, including excellent proximity to Edinburgh’s train, tram and bus links. It benefits from generous floor plates with distinctive floor to ceiling glazing. As well as 19 parking spaces, there are also plans for a substantial bike station and maintenance area. The refurbishment is due for completion in the autumn of 2017.

Keith Mackie, for CSG, said:

“Architecturally, Greenside is a very robust, high quality building, which gives us a fantastic starting point to introduce distinct design elements. Reinstating the suspended ceilings and break up the space can be done very effectively and still deliver a beautiful workplace surrounded by the greenery of Carlton Hill. But we also see how the space can be used in a different, more contemporary way.

“The Orangebox pod doesn’t need plasterboard and timber, it is movable and reusable and it is fitted with cutting edge technology. It adds an extra element and that sense of possibility when we bring people round.”

The aesthetic design of the Orangebox Air3 pod is a combination of high quality glass and soft acoustic panelling, creating a greater level of insulation and speech privacy. Interchangeable panels allow for changes in colour and fabrics at anytime to constantly refresh its look. It will be in place for one month. An internationally patented opening roof system featuring an advanced fire safety system has been developed to cater for sprinklered office environments.

The pod will be in place throughout February.