Amazon UK Headquarters | London

The 600,000 sq. ft building, known as Principal Place, is located on the border of Shoreditch, London, and accommodates over 5,000 employees. This state-of-the-art facility reflects Amazon’s commitment to creating inspiring and innovative workspaces for its teams.

The Amazon UK team approached Michael Grubb Studio to focus on the seventh floor, which is dedicated to the Cross Channel Marketing team (XCM). The brief was to design an interior lighting scheme that would impress visitors upon arrival, creating a moment of positivity and wonder. The goal was to transform the space into a visually engaging environment that left a lasting impression.

Designing Bespoke Interactive Lighting Installation

Our primary focus was the through-way corridor in the centre of the building, a key area connecting various sections of the floor. We proposed a permanent immersive light installation to enhance this space. This was achieved by combining a smart fabric wall with a bespoke LED system behind it. Lightweight acrylic panels were meticulously fixed to the sides of the corridor to create an optical effect, refracting light into an arch reminiscent of a fabric lens. The design aimed to evoke a sense of movement and dynamism, making the corridor an integral part of the overall experience.

The lighting control system was bespoke and developed to ensure that a series of lighting scenes could be sequenced seamlessly throughout the day. This allowed the space to adapt to different moods and requirements. Special override scenes were created for key events in the Amazon UK calendar, such as Black Friday, ensuring the lighting complemented the significance of these occasions. Each LED was individually addressable, enabling a wide range of effects, from subtle transitions to vibrant, dynamic displays. This flexibility allowed the lighting to serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

The XCM Illuminated Display

In addition to the corridor installation, a specially developed XCM illuminated display was created and installed within the main space. This display was designed to showcase the creative essence of the XCM team, acting as a focal point for the floor. The backlighting of the display was carefully synchronised to mimic the corridor’s ambience, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious visual experience across the entire floor.

Precision in Design Driving Impact

The interactive lighting installation and commissioning process was complex and time-intensive. Each panel and LED was individually mapped and programmed to ensure precision. This level of detail allowed video files to be integrated into the system, animating the lighting and bringing the space to life. The ability to incorporate motion and colour transitions added a layer of sophistication, making the installation truly unique. The end result is an innovative and inspiring feature that the Amazon XCM team takes great pride in.

The creative lighting installation’s innovative design and functionality have made it a standout feature of Principal Place. By combining technical expertise with creative vision, Michael Grubb Studio delivered a lighting scheme that elevates the workspace and sets a new standard for corporate environments. The immersive lighting installation delivers the impact not only on visitors but also on employees, fostering a sense of accomplishment and identity within the team. This project demonstrates the transformative power of light in creating memorable and engaging spaces that inspire both employees and visitors alike.