PROJECTS » Rabbie’s Tours, Edinburgh

THE BRIEF:

Rabbie’s, a leading provider of award-winning small-group tours, sought to create a dynamic new workplace to attract employees back to the office. Having outgrown their previous space due to business success, they relocated to the 4th floor of 22 Rose Street, Edinburgh. The space is a 6,000 sq ft office with an additional 1,900 sq ft private roof terrace offering spectacular views of Edinburgh Old Town and the Castle.

The design brief emphasised creating a workplace that supported collaboration, focus, socialisation and future growth. With Rabbie’s strong connection to nature and a mission to improve lives through ethical travel, the space needed to align with their brand ethos, inspire creativity and foster employee well-being.

Key objectives included:

  • Designing an office that employees would want to travel to.
  • Incorporating branding into the space design.
  • Maximising the breathtaking views with open, light-filled layouts.
  • Creating zones for collaboration, focus and social interactions.
  • Designing a sustainable and inviting workspace that reflected Rabbie’s values.

THE SOLUTION:

Collaborating with Form Design Consultants and Scotwood Interiors, Benholm Group brought biophilia to the forefront of the transformation. The planting strategy was carefully curated to integrate nature into every corner of the office, creating an inspiring and vibrant environment.

Key aspects of the solution included:

  1. Dynamic Zoning:
    • The office was divided into four functional “destinations” – Social, Collaboration, Focus and Support – to cater to diverse working styles.
    • Open-plan areas encouraged teamwork, while quieter zones supported focused work.
    • Breakout spaces and a fully fitted kitchen provided informal areas for relaxation and socialisation.
  2. Biophilic Design:
    • Statement Installations: A striking feature was the “Go Beyond” neon lighting sign, framed by cascading hanging plants. This installation became a visual centrepiece, inspiring employees and reinforcing Rabbie’s connection to nature and exploration.
    • Green Dividers and Accents: Planters filled with lush greenery were strategically placed to define zones within the open-plan layout, providing subtle privacy without blocking light. These were particularly effective around seating areas and collaborative zones.
    • Tree Features: Potted trees were used to soften corners and create a sense of scale and connection to the natural world. The twisted trunk of the tree near the terrace adds a sculptural, organic element to the space.
    • Tabletop Greenery: Smaller planters adorned desks and breakout areas, ensuring that greenery was always within view, enhancing both aesthetics and employee well-being.
  3. Attention to Detail:
    • Scotwood Interiors delivered bespoke joinery, including desks and kitchen furniture, while incorporating branded elements like neon signage, printed manifestations and custom artwork.
    • Ocula Glazing provided soundproofed, full-height meeting room walls, ensuring privacy without sacrificing light or openness.
    • Feature lighting, new flooring and decorative finishes tied the aesthetic together, emphasising the stunning views.
  4. Sustainability and Collaboration:
    • Existing services were adapted to include comfort cooling and ventilation, minimising waste.
    • Challenges such as noise restrictions (due to the adjacent Premier Inn) and last-minute furniture supply issues were expertly managed to maintain the project timeline.

THE RESULTS:

The completed transformation delivered an award-winning workspace that exceeded Rabbie’s expectations, perfectly aligning with their brand values and operational needs.

Rabbie’s ethos of sustainability, storytelling and connection to nature was captured through thoughtful design choices and integrated branding. The integration of biophilic elements, open layouts and breakout spaces created a workplace employees are eager to return to, boosting productivity and engagement. 

The project was recognised with the Gold Award in the “Interior Fit-Out” category at the FIS Awards 2024, with judges commending the quality of the space and the seamless project management. Employees now enjoy an office that blends functionality, collaboration, and creativity with the calming influence of nature.

Ready to transform your workplace?

If you’re looking to create an inspiring, functional and nature-driven workspace like Rabbie’s, we would love to help you bring your vision to life.

Get in touch with us today to discuss your next project and receive a free, tailored quote: 01324 861300 / mail@benholm.com

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