ARGYLE HOUSE – University of Edinburgh ISG Co-location Located within 8 suites over 5 floors of an existing multi-storey building the project is the single biggest investment by the University of Edinburgh in a support group and brings together a workforce of 553 people currently housed in 16 locations spread across the city. The aim of the project was to increase inter division collaboration and was designed to have a 10 year lifespan, with future-proofing flexibility built into the scheme, allowing for an anticipated total of 650 staff. Equipment and materials choice considered: acoustics; space reconfiguration; visual impairments; the incorporation of colour and texture; and durability and maintenance. The scheme is an exemplar project on how wisely space can be used with flexibility and standardisation built in. Focus Spaces - Bringing people together, whilst also providing privacy. To ensure flexibility of space desk sizes were standardised across all departments. However, a variety of focus spaces were incorporated across all areas to facilitate differing working patterns and provide staff with options, including: open plan desk layouts; quiet work spaces; telephone booths; and short term hot desks. Collaborative and Social Spaces - Diverse settings for impromptu or formal discussions. The office layouts include a variety of spaces where spontaneous encounters and discussions can take place to encourage and facilitate cross division collaboration, including bespoke designed Printer Hubs, Tea Points and casual seating. A central staff room with kitchen areas, vending facilities and a variety of seating options for 140 people is provided on a mid-floor to facilitate easy access from all University suites. Meeting Spaces - A shared resource for formal meetings & presentations. A suite of variously sized meeting and training rooms are provided adjacent to the Departmental Reception which is located directly off the building communal entrance, ensuring ease of access to areas frequented most by visitors to the Department. Within each office suite there are a variety of rooms & spaces designed to allow small to large meetings. Larger rooms have built in versatility and are equipped with formal presentation and discussion facilities. A twenty person Boardroom is located on Floor K to enjoy a prime view of Edinburgh Castle. Ancillary Spaces A large shared store & central Comms Room are provided within one suite which was considered the most appropriate use of an area with restricted natural light. A Satellite Comms Rooms was incorporated into each suite, with a main electrical cupboard provided on each floor adjacent to the landlord’s main riser with a satellite cupboard on the other suite.