CASE STUDY • OFFICE LIGHTING DESIGN
When business advisory firm Grant Thornton committed to staying in the iconic Royal Liver Building in Liverpool, they set out to transform their workspace into something truly modern. This sustainable, people-focused environment needed to represent the character of the Grade I listed structure.
Claremont led the interior design and VEVO Lighting was brought on board to deliver a bespoke lighting and acoustic solution that would support both the architectural vision and the practical needs of a hybrid working culture. This provided the perfect backdrop for us to showcase our expertise in delivering high-performance, design-led acoustic and lighting solutions.
Office Lighting Design
Liverpool
Our Role
From the early stages, we worked closely with Claremont’s design team to create a lighting and acoustic plan that enhanced each part of the workplace. The outer edges of the floorplate, naturally lit and open, were designed for collaboration and social interaction. These zones were supported with brighter, high-energy lighting using VEVO Linear systems. In contrast, the central spaces were more controlled and subdued, promoting focus and quiet work.
Acoustic lighting played a key part in defining these zones. Products from our range were carefully selected and customised to integrate seamlessly with the interior palette. Claremont had a clear vision to connect the office with the iconic Liver Building’s waterfront location and the festivals that take place right outside. To do this justice, we tailored our range with changes in colour, scale and finish, as well as the development of bespoke fittings for specific areas.
As lighting experts with years of experience, we pride ourselves on being able to supply lighting that fits any scheme. The result was a cohesive design language carried through every part of the space.
Keeping Sustainability In Mind
At VEVO, sustainability is always a core consideration in our work. That’s why it was so rewarding to collaborate with partners on this project who shared our commitment to environmentally responsible design. From the outset, we used a carbon calculator to monitor and measure the project’s carbon footprint. This allowed us to make informed decisions and meaningful adjustments throughout the process, ensuring the final outcome remained low-impact while maintaining quality and performance.
To align with Claremont’s sustainability goals, we incorporated acoustic panels made from PET felt, a material known for its high recycled content and excellent sound absorption properties. Lighting selections focused on energy efficiency and longevity, with options tailored to each area of the office using a mix of warm, neutral, and cool colour temperatures. Where appropriate, we included DALI control systems to provide Grant Thornton with the flexibility needed for long-term energy management.
We were also committed to reusing as many existing light fittings as possible, showing that a modern lighting design can be achieved while reducing product consumption. One of the project’s most distinctive features involved transforming salvaged security doors from the building into ceiling rafts. These were fitted with integrated lighting, acoustic treatment, and planting, combining the building’s heritage character with contemporary acoustic and visual performance.
Project Highlights
Our VEVO Linear system provided the architectural backbone of the scheme, supported by cylindrical pendants, wall-mounted acoustic lights and recessed profiles. Acoustic products were positioned not only for performance but also to contribute to the overall texture and tone of the space. Our work isn’t only about aesthetics: we rigorously tested our products to demonstrate their noise-reducing ability, fire rating and light performance. This meant our lighting scheme will practically work in the space for many years to come.
Working in a Grade I listed environment came with challenges. Every element had to meet strict heritage constraints without compromising on the needs of a high-functioning workplace. With a delivery window of just ten weeks, we had to ensure smooth coordination between everyone involved in this project and careful execution.
The Result
We have built a great relationship with Claremont over the years and we love how they continue to trust VEVO to bring their beautiful designs to life. We’re very proud of what our collaboration created. Grant Thronton’s new Liverpool office supports a hybrid, people-first way of working in a setting that is as characterful as it is functional. Since completion, the project has been shortlisted for several industry awards, recognising its innovative approach and strong sense of place.
This was an amazing opportunity to collaborate on a project that combined heritage sensitivity with forward-thinking workplace design. It’s a great example of how acoustic and lighting solutions can work together to elevate space, experience and performance.
