StepStone Group: Designing an Inclusive, Sustainable Workplace with BeCalm Acoustic Pods

Client: StepStone Group
Design & Specification: Calibro Workspace

 

Workagile recently supported Calibro Workspace on the new office renovation for StepStone Group, private market specialists delivering solutions, services, and insights to investors worldwide. The relocation of their Irish headquarters created an opportunity to better support their team, evolving work styles, and the future growth of the business. Collaborating with Calibro Workspace, renewed energy and flow were brought to the StepStone offices, creating a workplace where employees feel motivated, engaged, and proud to come to work.

The Design:

StepStone is home to a largely youthful and diverse workforce, something Calibro were keen to reflect through the modern workspace design. Creating an environment that supports different work styles and employee wellbeing, was a key focus throughout the project.

Workagile contributed BeCalm Acoustic Pods as part of the fit-out, providing an effective solution for both private focus work and collaborative meetings. A combination of seated and standing pods were selected, enabling individuals to work in a variety of ways and choose what best suits their operating style.

The BeCalm Acoustic Pods feature a dark black exterior paired with premium oak finishes, injecting warmth, texture, and character into the office while maintaining a professional aesthetic. These elements sit seamlessly within the wider design scheme, where surrounding decorative wall details are inspired by the local landscape and the Wicklow Mountains. These comforting, nature-led features help create a relaxing and calming environment for employees, further enhancing the workspace.

The Results:

Acoustic performance was a priority, with reduced noise reverberation desired throughout the space. The Class A acoustic rating of the pods plays a vital role in minimising sound disruption and sensory stimuli, supporting focus and inclusivity – particularly for individuals with neurodiverse sensitivities. Functionality and flexibility were also key considerations. With StepStone operating a hybrid working model, the modular nature of the BeCalm Acoustic Pods allows for easy reconfiguration of furniture and layouts as needs evolve.

Sustainability was another key consideration throughout this office refurbishment. Our BeCalm Acoustic Pods support this commitment, incorporating up to 90% renewable materials and 30% recyclable content. Designed with circularity in mind, the pods offer an extended product lifespan and help minimise furniture waste, reducing the amount sent to landfill.

Overall, our Class A Acoustic Pods have helped create a peaceful and highly functional open-plan workspace. StepStone Group now benefits from an inclusive environment that reflects their employee-focused culture, enabling individuals to work in ways that suit them best and supporting the continued success of the brand.