saxen-2022

Innovative interiors: agile spaces for collaborative success

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:03:43 GMT

In competitive corporate landscapes, organisations face the challenge of attracting and retaining top talent. Designing inviting and functional environments can help foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and well-being, ultimately enhancing employees' job satisfaction and loyalty.

Creating collaborative working spaces.

Thoughtfully crafted workplaces not only boost employee morale but also lead to increased productivity and creativity, driving overall success in an ever-evolving market. Creating considered environments that are not only functional but are beautiful, versatile, and sustainable is a strategic necessity for companies aiming to thrive in the future.

Architects, interior designers, and furniture specifiers play a crucial role in shaping these environments to foster creativity, productivity, and community among employees. By integrating sophisticated commercial furnishing, particularly new sustainable and refurbished items, Saxen and the RefurbHub offer innovative solutions that cater to the needs of modern workspaces, designed with an emphasis on agility and collaboration.

The importance of collaborative spaces.

Collaborative working environments are essential in empowering teams to break down traditional barriers and enhance communication. A well-designed space encourages teamwork through flexible layouts tailored to diverse work styles. From open-concept designs to defined meeting areas, the ar chitecture of collaborative spaces significantly impacts employee engagement and performance.

Essential furniture for agile workspaces.

To create agile workspace s that adapt to various activities, it is essential to select furniture that aligns with functional and aesthetic requirements. Key pieces to consider include:

> Modular desks and tables

These versatile units can be easily reconfigured for project teams, enabling collaborative work without sacrificing individual productivity.

> Collaborative seating

A range of options, including lounge chairs, upholstered benches, and modular seating arrangements, can enhance interaction while providing comfort and style.

> Height-adjustable tables

These tables promote versatility in the workplace by accommodating both standing and seated work preferences, fostering better health and dynamic interaction among team members.

> Mobile whiteboards

Essential for collaborative brainstorming and strategic planning, these tools enable teams to visualise ideas dynamically and engage in productive discussions.

> Soft seating areas

Intentionally designed conversation zones with soft furnishings can create a relaxed atmosphere that encourages informal collaboration and enhances creative exchanges.

At Saxen, we offer a curated collection of highly functional, aes thetically pleasing furniture pieces, making it easier for professionals to design environments that meet the sophisticated needs of modern businesses.

First choice: second hand.

The aesthetic and functional value of refurbished furniture.

When creating impactful spaces, selecting refurbished or reused commercial furnishings adds a layer of uniqueness and sustainability . By choosing high-quality second-hand furniture, designers can customise pieces with timeless appeal that blend seamlessly into contemporary settings.

Preloved items not only support sustainability initiatives by reducing waste and lowering the carbon footprint of new manufacturing, but also imbue spaces with character and storytelling – qualities that resonate deeply with today’s discerning clientele and employees.

Saxen's RefurbHub can also advise on which fabrics are suitable for your project and partner with a wide range of contract fabric suppliers that offer sustainable fabrics manufactured using innovative processes and from recycled and waste materials.

Integrating flexibility and functionality.

Flexibility is paramount in designing collaborative workspaces. Saxen’s diverse range of commercial furnishings is intended to meet the multifaceted needs of today’s dynamic workforce. Modular furniture pieces can be rapidly reconfigured, enabling spaces to adapt to shifting requirements throughout the day.

Incorporating movable partitions, multipurpose tables, and innovative storage solutions can further enhance space utilisation, ensuring that high-quality design promotes interaction without sacrificing functionality. Each element, whether ergonomically designed seating or aesthetically striking desks, contributes to a holistic environment that inspires collaboration .

Invite the outdoors in.

Biophilic design has gained traction within workspace architecture, emphasising the holistic connection between nature and productivity. Integrating elements such as greenery, natural light, and organic materials can significantly enhance the well-being of inhabitants.

Refurbished furniture crafted from sustainable or reclaimed wood not only supports eco-friendly objectives but also contributes to creating a serene, inspiring environment for collaboration. By harmonising natural elements with sophisticated design, Saxen aids professionals in crafting spaces that resonate with the principles of well-being and sustainability.

Join the RE:volution.
C reate collaborative spaces that won't cost the earth.

Architects, interior designers, and furniture specifiers play a critical role in shaping the future of collaborative workspaces. The selection of commercial furnishings, particularly sustainably manufactured and refurbished pieces , not only enhances functionality and aesthetic appeal but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and thoughtful design principles.

Saxen is dedicated to equipping professionals with the tools necessary to transform workspaces into cohesive environments that foster innovation and enhance collaboration. By embracing modular solutions, collaborative seating, and a commitment to design excellence, your projects can create agile, inviting spaces that elevate the workplace experience for all.

Please get in touch to explore Saxen’s sustainable furniture solutions .

Second chances: redefining commercial interiors through reuse

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:51:37 GMT

The integration of sustainability and cost-effectiveness is essential when fitting out modern commercial interiors. Saxen empowers architects and designers to capitalise on the benefits of second-hand commercial furniture while embracing responsible design and efficient resource management.

Incorporating second-hand commercial furniture through Saxen's RefurbHub isn't just a pragmatic decision; it is a thoughtful strategy that resonates with the values of contemporary architecture and design. Saxen's furniture warehouse, showrooms, and refurbishment studio, located in central Scotland, stands as the largest supplier of both new and preloved commercial furnishings . Partnering with Saxen is a strategic decision that can enhance your success in designing interiors across all commercial sectors.

An informed choice :

the benefits of reusing commercial furniture .

Saxen RefurbHub's approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of various environments but also underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility. Let's explore how refurbished furniture can e nrich key sectors: hospitality and leisure , office , education , retail , and healthcare inter iors.

Hospitality and leisure:

designing distinctive experiences.

The hospitality and leisure sector is fundamentally about creating memorable experiences, and with Saxen’s RefurbHub, businesses can strategically enhance this goal. By incorporating characterful second-hand furniture into cafés and restaurants , such as refurbished dining chairs and artisanal tables, designers can cultivate unique, inviting atmospheres that set establishments apart from competitors. The financial advantages of selecting refurbished solutions allow resources to be directed toward premium services and experiences, ultimately enriching guest satisfaction.

Office interiors:

the advantages of reuse furniture.

Opting for refurbished and second-hand office furniture promotes a sustainable workplace by significantly reducing waste and supporting circular-economy principles. Secondly, it allows businesses to create unique and inspiring environments that reflect their brand identity, fostering creativity and collaboration among employees. Second-hand furniture is often higher quality than mass-produced new options, offering durability and longevity. This contributes to a lower overall cost of ownership, as refurbished items can often be sourced at a fraction of the price of new counterparts without sacrificing quality. Finally, the act of choosing pre-loved furniture conveys a commitment to social and environmental responsibility , aligning with the values of a growing number of clients and employees who prioritise sustainability in their choices.

Education:

fostering engaging learning environments.

Establishing stimulating, comfortable, and versatile learning environments is essential for fostering effective education. Saxen’s RefurbHub offers a comprehensive selection of preloved educational furniture, empowering schools and universities to optimise their spaces for functionality and engagement. By adopting high-quality second-hand options, institutions actively promote sustainability and resourcefulness among students. These diverse furniture solutions inspire creativity and facilitate collaborative learning – critical components of modern education .

Healthcare:

merging functionality with comfort.

In healthcare environments, the atmosphere significantly impacts patient well-being. Saxen’s RefurbHub provides healthcare providers with access to pre-owned furniture that strikes a harmonious balance between comfort and functionality. From inviting waiting room seating to practical desks and storage, refurbished solutions enhance both healthcare workers' operational efficiency and the patients' experience. Opting for second-hand furnishings also conveys a commitment to social responsibility, aligning with the values of an increasingly eco-conscious public.

Retail:

designing inviting public spaces.

In public environments like shopping centers and airports, the design of public spaces plays a crucial role in customer experience and engagement. Saxen’s RefurbHub enables retailers and shopping centre operators to source second-hand furniture to enhance communal areas, creating inviting, comfortable settings for visitors. These thoughtfully curated seating arrangements not only improve the aesthetic appeal but also invite conversation and social interaction, turning a mere dining experience into a social occasion.

In public interiors, creating inviting lounge areas equipped with refurbished armchairs or unique seating clusters can provide visitors with a much-needed respite and encourage them to linger longer. By sourcing refurbished furniture, these public spaces can reflect individuality while remaining budget-conscious. Additionally, investing in preloved public furniture sends a strong message about sustainability and social responsibility, qualities that resonate with today’s environmentally aware public.

Join the RE:volution
commit to sustainability with Saxen's RefurbHub.

Incorporating second-hand commercial furniture through Saxen's RefurbHub is a thoughtful strategy that resonates with the values of contemporary architecture and design. By embracing the potential of refurbished options, professionals can create distinctive environments that champion sustainability and promote fiscal prudence. In an era where eco-conscious choices are demanded, utilising refurbished furniture stands as a testament to both innovation and responsibility in the realm of commercial interiors.

Please get in touch to explore Saxen’s sustainable furniture solutions .

Saxen's latest carbon reduction plan

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 16:17:42 GMT

Saxen understands the critical importance of a comprehensive and sustained commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from our operations, aligning with the global effort to limit increases in global temperatures and mitigate environmental impact.

We have committed to the following:

For our company to achieve Net Zero in line with the Science Based targets set out by the UNFCCC i.e. to achieve Net Zero no later than 2050 and target a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030.
To set realistic short- and long-term targets that are designed to achieve our Net Zero commitments.
To report the total Greenhouse Gas emissions of our business, at a minimum, on an annual basis.

Edinburgh Uni Green Hub

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 14:06:52 GMT

The University of Edinburgh leads by example in promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices. At the Appleton Tower Green Hub, the team sought to establish an engaging, collaborative environment that embodies its sustainability values while adhering to strict budget and performance criteria.

The brief.

Design, source, and install high-quality refurbished furniture to create a collaborative, sustainable workspace that reflects the University’s environmental values.

Our approach.

Reflecting the University’s sustainability goals and cost-conscious brief, Saxen’s RefurbHub was delighted to support the project through our Sustainable Furniture Procurement Framework.

By sourcing high-quality refurbished furniture, we were able to provide stylish, durable, and functional pieces at a fraction of the cost of new — perfectly aligning with the project’s environmental objectives and financial constraints. Each item was carefully selected and refurbished to the highest standards, ensuring quality and longevity while reducing waste and carbon impact.

The results.

> Sustainable impact.

By choosing refurbished furniture, the University of Edinburgh significantly reduced the project’s environmental footprint, supporting the circular economy and demonstrating a practical commitment to sustainability.

> Cost efficiency.

The project achieved substantial savings through the APUC Sustainable Furniture Procurement Framework, proving that sustainability and affordability can go hand in hand.

> Community example.

The completed Appleton Tower Green Hub stands as a visible testament to the University’s environmental leadership — a space that inspires collaboration, innovation, and responsible design.

This project highlights how small changes in procurement choices can have a big impact on sustainability. At Saxen RefurbHub, we’re proud to have partnered with the University to bring its vision for the Green Hub to life, showcasing how refurbished furniture can deliver both environmental and economic benefits without compromising on quality or style.

New year, old wisdom: sustainable furniture solutions for 2026

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 14:16:32 GMT

As we embark on the journey of 2026, commercial interior designers are increasingly recognising the critical importance of integrating sustainable practices, particularly when it comes to furniture solutions. The new year marks a pivotal opportunity to enhance workspaces with eco-conscious furniture that not only elevates aesthetics but also fosters a healthier and more responsible environment.

Sustainable furniture is crafted with a deep consideration for ecological impact. It prioritises minimising environmental harm through the use of eco-friendly materials, ethical sourcing, and durable design. Selecting sustainable furniture empowers businesses to significantly reduce their carbon footprint, while simultaneously enhancing employee well-being and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Key benefits of sustainable furniture solutions .

Sustainable furniture is crafted with a deep consideration for ecological impact . It prioritises minimising environmental harm through the use of eco-friendly materials, ethical sourcing, and durable design. Selecting sustainable furniture empowers businesses to significantly reduce their carbon footprint , while simultaneously enhancing employee well-being and contributing to a more sustainable future. The benefits are numerous:

Healthier workspaces

Sustainable furniture frequently utilises non-toxic materials and finishes, thereby improving indoor air quality. This is fundamental to fostering a healthy workplace, as it mitigates the risks of headaches and allergies often associated with conventional office furniture.

Durability and longevity

The procurement of high-quality, sustainable furniture results in fewer replacements over time. Such investments yield long-term financial benefits and ensure that the workspace remains both stylish and functional for years to come.

Aesthetic appeal

Sustainable furniture encompasses a broad spectrum of contemporary styles that can significantly elevate an office’s interior design. From reclaimed-wood desks to sleek, recyclable materials, these pieces can enhance any commercial setting while embodying a commitment to sustainability.

Enhanced brand perception

The integration of sustainable furniture into your design ethos contributes to corporate social responsibility. Increasingly, clients and consumers are inclined towards organisations that visibly demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship.

Integrating Saxen’s sustainable furniture solutions.

At Saxen , we appreciate the fundamental role that sustainable furniture plays in creating innovative and enduring workspaces. Our extensive range of sustainable products provides eco-friendly options and services that are impeccably suited for a variety of commercial environments. Here are several considerations:

Your 2026 resolution.

As we welcome 2026, let's work together to pivot towards sustainable furniture solutions within the sphere of commercial interior design. By thoughtfully selecting eco-friendly options, industry professionals can create workspaces that not only reflect aesthetic sophistication but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Saxen provides an exceptional array of sustainable furniture products , complemented by our RefurbHub services, designed to help you make ethical choices for your interiors. This year, let's collectively strive to cultivate environments that are both aesthetically pleasing and ecologically sound, embodying our dedication to a sustainable future .

Happy New Year, and here’s to a prosperous and sustainable 2026.

Please get in touch to explore Saxen’s sustainable furniture solutions .

Neilston Learning Campus

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 16:37:09 GMT

This state-of-the-art facility was designed to bring Neilston Primary, Madras Family Centre and St Thomas’ Primary together on one shared site.

Following the success of Saxen’s delivery of furniture packages for the Early Years 2020 project alongside Heron Bros for East Renfrewshire Council, Saxen were delighted to be invited to assist with the specification, delivery and installation of the fitted furniture package to the new Neilston Learning Campus.

Sustainable, inclusive and inspirational.

We liaised closely with Architects, BDP and Heron Bros to ensure that all proposed solutions were highly sustainable, inclusive and created an inspirational space for staff and pupils in which to learn, collaborate and socialise.

Solutions installed included:

All teaching units to classrooms
Early Years Bake Kitchen fit out and servery
All shoe and coat storage for pupils, staff and visitors including integral seating
Kitchens and workspace to staff rooms
Creative Arts storage
Base and wall units to specialised rooms such as Medical, Reprographics, and Nurture Rooms.

In keeping with our Carbon Reduction Plan, all furniture was designed and manufactured in the central belt of Scotland employing local companies and encouraging local employment wherever possible.

Constructionline Gold renewed

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:26:07 GMT

Saxen's is pleased to announce that we have successfully renewed our Constructionline Gold membership and achieved Social Value certification.

Saxen understands that trust and credibility are paramount in our industry. Our clients seek assurance that we uphold the highest levels of professionalism, safety, and ethical behaviour. We showcase our dedication to these principles through respected certifications.

The successful renewal of our Constructionline Gold Member Certification underscores our dedication to excellence and complements our portfolio of existing health and safety accreditations.

Saxen has been:

assessed on areas such as; environmental management, quality management, equalities and diversity. It ensures we abide by legislation in areas such as modern slavery, anti-bribery and corruption and shows we have been assessed and adhere to these standards to potential buyers.

assessed for and awarded, Once For All – Health & Safety (SSIP) accreditation and have SafeContractor certification in place, demonstrating to buyers we comply with health & safety legislation.

What is Constructionline Gold Member Certification?

Constructionline, a UK procurement platform, offers a range of certification levels for companies, with the Gold Member Certification representing excellence through rigorous assessment and stringent criteria.

Achieving Constructionline Gold Member Certification is challenging. It involves a comprehensive evaluation of financial health, legal compliance, commitment to health and safety, and a proven track record of successful projects. This assessment guarantees that only top-tier companies earn Gold Member status.

> Enhanced credibility and trust

The Constructionline Gold Member certification reflects Saxen's dedication to quality, transparency, and ethical business practices, reinforcing our clients' trust in our capability to fulfil project requirements and meet deadlines.

> Emphasis on Health & Safety

Gold Member Certification process focuses on health and safety standards – this is crucial within our industry. Upholding Gold Member status underscores our commitment to fostering and sustaining safe working environments.

In an industry where trust and credibility are critical, achieving Gold Member status is a strategic investment that not only enhances our reputation but also streamlines procurement processes and provides a competitive edge as leading commercial interiors experts in the United Kingdom.

Making social value a priority.

Our customers are also increasingly seeking to collaborate with businesses that can complement and support their own social value strategies. By achieving the Constructionline Social Value award, Saxen have demonstrated our commitment to providing social value when bidding for contracts. Corporate social responsibility comprises a broad range of initiatives, from taking on apprenticeships to employing a diverse workforce.

Saxen provide social value by:

Putting robust Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) processes in place
Taking steps to avoid the risk of slavery and human trafficking throughout our supply chain
Providing equal opportunities for minority groups
Having good working conditions
Supporting our workers’ mental well-being
Engaging with local communities
Working to improve our organisation’s sustainability
Holding accreditations for schemes like Disability Confident and Real Living Wage.

Go modular: flexible furniture for enduring functionality

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:54:14 GMT

Creating well-designed workspaces that are not only functional but also adaptable, efficient, and aesthetic is where modular office furniture shines, presenting a compelling solution that aligns with modern workplace ethics and demands.

Flexible and functional.

One of the primary advantages of commercial modular office furniture is its inherent flexibility. Unlike traditional furniture, modular systems can be easily reconfigured to accommodate shifting team sizes, evolving work processes, and varying spatial requirements. This adaptability is crucial in a landscape where businesses are increasingly embracing hybrid work models, remote teams, and collaborative workflows.

Modular designs allow for the creation of customised workspace layouts without the need for extensive renovations. Whether it's a single workstation, collaborative hubs, or informal meeting spaces, modular furniture can be tailored to fit diverse needs. This versatility not only enhances productivity but also optimises space usage, enabling companies to make the most of their available square footage.

Cost effective, smart office furniture.

When considering budget constraints, modular office furniture presents a cost-effective solution. The ability to reconfigure existing furniture rather than investing in new pieces for every change can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, by investing in high-quality modular systems, businesses can avoid the wear-and-tear pitfalls commonly associated with cheaper alternatives.

Moreover, many modular furniture systems are designed for longevity, often featuring durable materials and sustainable manufacturing processes. This emphasis on durability reduces the long-term expenditure associated with replacing worn-out furniture, aligning with both financial and environmental considerations.

Aesthetic appeal.

The visual aspect of office design is vital to creating an inspiring work environment. Modular furniture comes in a vast array of styles, finishes, and colours, allowing designers to maintain aesthetic continuity while also fostering a welcoming atmosphere. From bench desking that can be expanded when necessary, to booths and pods that can be relocated or reupholstered to freshen up or match a new environment, the opportunities are limitless.

Moreover, the ability to mix and match, and update components enables creative design, ensuring that each workspace reflects the brand's identity and values. With a modular approach, it is easy to incorporate elements that encourage collaboration, creativity, and comfort, all while ensuring a sleek and professional appearance.

Saxen's RefurbHub has embraced the modular revolution – it makes sense, and it’s time to make it a priority in interior design considerations.

Sustainability considerations .

With increasing awareness of environmental impacts, the sustainability of office furniture is a key concern. Modular office furniture often supports eco-friendly practices, as manufacturers frequently use renewable materials and sustainable manufacturing processes.

The purchase of second-hand units can further enhance this commitment to sustainability, extending the lifecycle of existing products and reducing waste. Saxen's RefurbHub specialises in providing quality commercial furnishings for reuse, refurbishment, and reupholstery. With vast quantities of high-end brand desk frames and tops, soft-seating, task chairs, storage, and desk accessories such as monitor arms in our 44,000 sq ft warehouse, Saxen is the largest supplier of quality reuse furniture in Scotland.

By choosing modular systems, businesses not only gain a stylish and functional workspace but also contribute to sustainability efforts , which is increasingly significant in today’s eco-conscious market.

Transforming workspaces for the future.

For architects, facility managers, furniture specifiers, and interior designers, the compelling advantages of commercial modular office furniture are clear. Its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, aesthetic appeal, and alignment with sustainability initiatives make it a wise choice for modern workplaces. As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of work, investing in modular solutions offers the adaptability we need to design future-ready offices that inspire creativity, collaboration, and productivity.

Incorporating commercial modular office furniture can transform not just a workplace but the very essence of how work is approached.

Embrace the modular revolution with Saxen to stay at the forefront of innovation.

Please get in touch to explore Saxen’s modular furniture solutions .

Cloud Dancer at work: bringing Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year into commercial spaces

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 13:41:18 GMT

Pantone has named PANTONE 11‑4201 'Cloud Dancer' its Colour of the Year for 2026 — an airy, balanced white chosen to signal calm, clarity and fresh starts in a fast-moving world. The choice marks the first time Pantone has selected a shade of white for this annual designation.

Why Cloud Dancer matters for commercial interiors.

Cloud Dancer functions less as a neutral 'non‑colour' and more as a design strategy: a soft, billowy backdrop that reduces visual noise, amplifies other materials and colours, and supports environments intended for focus, wellbeing and hospitality. The Pantone Colour Institute positions Cloud Dancer as a calming influence, providing a blank canvas for other design elements to shine.

What this means for architects and designers.

As a commercial interiors partner, Saxen can translate Cloud Dancer into practical, high‑performing spaces that meet operational needs while reflecting this cultural shift toward simplicity and mindful design.

Brand‑forward backdrops.

Use Cloud Dancer on reception walls, wayfinding panels and ceiling planes to create a refined, neutral canvas that makes brand colours and art installations pop.

Flexible workplace zones.

Implement Cloud Dancer in touchdown zones, meeting rooms, and quiet lounges to minimise distractions and visually unify different activity types.

Healthcare & hospitality.

Soft white surfaces promote perceptions of hygiene and calm; pair with tactile, warm surfaces to avoid a sterile feel. Saxen's RefurbHub is equipped to reupholster furnishings using antimicrobial fabrics, ensuring a higher standard of hygiene and peace of mind for our clients.

Retail & showrooms.

Cloud Dancer creates a highly versatile merchandising backdrop that highlights product colour and texture without competing for attention.

"An airy white hue, PANTONE Cloud Dancer opens up space for creativity, allowing our imagination to drift so that new insights and bold ideas can emerge and take shape."

Laurie Pressman
Vice President, Pantone Color Institute

Design pairings and palettes.

Pantone describes Cloud Dancer as scaffolding for the colour spectrum — it’s intentionally compatible with both soft pastels and broader accents. Saxen recommends three palettes depending on brand intent:

> Warm & human (hospitality, boutique offices)

Cloud Dancer + warm wood tones, Mocha Mousse –style browns (Pantone’s 2025 pick), soft terracotta accents and muted brass.

> Calm & clinical (healthcare, wellness)

Cloud Dancer + pale sage, dove grey, layered natural textiles and matte white ceramics.

> Bold contrast (retail, creative studios)

Cloud Dancer + saturated navy or forest green accents, black metal trims and high‑contrast artwork.

Materials, finishes and durability.

> Paint and solid surfaces

Choose high‑performance matte or eggshell-finish commercial paints with cleanability ratings for high‑traffic areas.

> Textures

Introduce plaster, limewash, or micro‑textured wallpapers or tiles to break up large expanses of white and add depth.

> Soft furnishings

Use patterned upholstery, acoustic panels and rugs to anchor white spaces and reduce reverberation.

> Metals & joinery

Brushed brass, warm anodised aluminium and natural walnut provide warmth and visual grounding.

Lighting & perception.

White is highly dependent on light. To keep Cloud Dancer from reading flat or sterile:

> Use layered lighting

ambient (warm LED), task (adjustable), and accent (wash lighting for art/feature walls).

> Adjust colour temperature

2700–3500K keeps the white feeling warm and inviting in hospitality and office environments.

> Test in situ

Provide Saxen mockups u nder the actual project lighting before final specification.

Operational considerations.

> Maintenance

White surfaces show wear faster. For high‑touch areas, specify scrubbable finishes, antifade fabrics and replaceable modular elements.

> Accessibility

Ensure contrast for signage, wayfinding and controls; Cloud Dancer is a backdrop, not a substitute for required contrast levels.

> Sustainability

Reuse existing white or off‑white building elements where possible; choosi ng Cloud Dancer as a unifying palette can reduce the need for frequent refits.

Join the RE:volution.
Use Cloud Dancer to elevate your interiors.

Pantone’s Colour of the Year often influences product launches, merchandising, and marketing across industries — choosing Cloud Dancer now creates an opportunity for brands to align interiors, collateral, and product displays with a dominant cultural tone of simplicity and renewal. Saxen can help clients coordinate those touchpoints, from sample boards to phased rollouts.

Cloud Dancer gives commercial interiors a timely tool: a composed, adaptable neutral that supports wellbeing and highlights what matters. If you’d like Saxen to develop a Cloud Dancer concept board, mock up a scheme, or run a pilot in one of your spaces, tell us the project type and square footage, and we’ll prepare custom options and cost estimates.

Please get in touch to explore Saxen’s sustainable furniture solutions .

First choice – second-hand: discover the refurb revolution

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 19:09:19 GMT

Saxen's RefurbHub has redefined the relationship between second-hand and quality, proving they can coexist and even become the first preference. At the heart of our approach lies sustainability and tailored solutions that craft innovative, functional, visually appealing, and eco-friendly commercial spaces.

The refurbishment and repurposing of existing furnishings is essential for meeting these goals. RefurbHub has made significant investments in cutting-edge technology and training, enabling us to provide architects, interior designers, and furniture specifiers with holistic solutions that merge artisanal skill, technological advancements, and tailored customisation to revitalise your commercial spaces.

Customising refurbished furniture .

Refurbishing furniture is not only about extending its lifespan; it is an opportunity to tailor each piece to reflect a company’s brand identity, interior aesthetic, and operational requirements. At Saxen , we understand that furniture plays a vital role in creating a cohesive, professional environment, whether in an office, hospitality setting, educational institution, healthcare environment, or retail space.

Customised finishes provide numerous benefits, including:

Brand consistency

Achieve a unified visual identity by matching furniture colour schemes with your corporate branding, logo, or colour palette.

Design harmony

Coordinate furniture and fixtures with the overall interior aesthetic to create a cohesive, professional environment.

Durability and safety

Updating the upholstery, surfaces, paint, or veneer on commercial furniture offers the opportunity to choose finishes that are not only more durable and functional but also lower in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). By selecting contemporary finishes for the products used to build and furnish our indoor environments, we can significantly reduce indoor air pollution levels.

Limitless opportunities.

The RefurbHub's process includes the option to customise finishes on existing furnishings, allowing you to seamlessly align your reuse products with your corporate branding or interior colour schemes.

Environmental and financial considerations

Refurbishment and customisation deliver significant environmental benefits by reducing waste and raw material consumption. Extending the lifespan of existing furniture reduces demand for new production, thereby lowering carbon emissions associated with manufacturing.

Additionally, refurbishment presents a cost-efficient alternative to purchasing new furniture. Customising finishes and components ensures your furniture remains aligned with evolving branding and design needs without necessitating complete replacement — a strategic investment in both sustainability and value.

Saxen's commitment to quality and sustainability.

At Saxen, our mission is to deliver innovative, environmentally responsible furniture solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and design. Combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, including CNC machining, edge banding, and 3D printing, allows us to provide tailored solutions that precisely meet your specifications.

Refurbishing, customising, and reusing furniture are integral components of a sustainable interior strategy that supports your organisation’s environmental commitments while enhancing the visual and functional quality of your spaces.

Are you ready to put second hand, first?

Contact Saxen to learn more about how our expertise can support your organisation’s goal of creating sustainable, bespoke, and stylish commercial interiors.

Please get in touch to explore Saxen’s sustainable furniture solutions .

Beautiful spaces, responsible choices: the new standard in commercial interiors

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 16:47:49 GMT

Sustainability is no longer a niche consideration in the built environment. It is a professional responsibility that shapes how architects, interior designers, and furniture specifiers approach every project.

The challenge lies not only in creating spaces that look and function beautifully, but also in ensuring that the materials, furniture, and finishes used contribute positively to both people and the planet.

In a sector that consumes significant resources, every specification decision carries weight. From material sourcing to end-of-life planning, thoughtful choices can make a measurable difference.

How to make a difference.

Adopting a circular design approach is the foundation of sustainable specification. Instead of viewing products through a linear model of 'take, make, dispose', circular thinking focuses on extending the life of materials and products through reuse, refurbishment, and recycling.

When designing interiors, consider how elements can be repurposed or reconfigured to accommodate changes over time. Modular furniture systems, for instance, allow components to be replaced, expanded, or updated rather than discarded. Refurbished pieces, particularly workstations, seating, and storage units, offer a high-quality alternative to new purchases while significantly reducing your carbon footprint.

Companies such as Saxen , Scotland’s largest supplier of new, preloved, and refurbished commercial furniture, make it easier for specifiers to embrace circular principles in practice. Saxen supplies a wide range of sustainably manufactured new commercial furniture and sources and restores premium brand furniture to a high standard, providing stylish, durable, and sustainable options for projects of all scales.

Prioritise provenance and transparency

Understanding the origins of materials and their production processes is crucial. Always seek suppliers that can provide Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) or certification schemes such as FSC ® for timber, Cradle to Cradle ®, or Greenguard ®. These documents help verify that products meet recognised sustainability standards.

Engage with manufacturers and suppliers who are transparent about their supply chains and environmental impact. Many are now offering take-back programs, such as Saxen's Regener8 initiative, as well as remanufacturing and refurbishment programmes that support designers in achieving low-carbon outcomes.

Specify reuse, refurbished and remanufactured furniture

Reuse, refurbished and remanufactured furniture has evolved far beyond its early reputation. Today, high-quality refurbishment specialists can restore, upgrade, and customise products to meet modern performance and aesthetic standards.

For commercial projects, this approach offers both environmental and financial advantages. Refurbished and second-hand furniture can reduce embodied carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent compared to new, while maintaining durability and functionality. Specifiers can also seamlessly blend refurbished and new items, achieving design cohesion without compromising on sustainability goals.

Saxen’s RefurbHub service, located just south of Glasgow in Scotland, demonstrates how this can be achieved at scale. By extending the life of premium furniture, they help clients reduce waste, save costs, and meet their sustainability targets without sacrificing design integrity.

Choose finishes with a low environmental impact

Finishes play a crucial role in defining the character and performance of a space, but they also contribute to its environmental footprint. Specify materials, such as Rezign or SolidWool veneer sheets, with recycled or rapidly renewable content and prioritise low-VOC paints, adhesives, and sealants to protect indoor air quality.

Where possible, use local materials to minimise transport emissions and support regional supply chains. Consider the entire life cycle of finishes, from extraction and manufacture to maintenance and disposal. Products designed for disassembly such as Alejandro Villarreal's Otto chairs , or for easy recycling at end of life will always be the more responsible choice.

Think longevity, not trends

True sustainability is about endurance. Specify products that are timeless, durable, and designed to age gracefully. Avoid overly trend-driven selections that may look dated quickly and prompt premature replacement.

Investing in high-quality, repairable furniture and finishes ensures a longer service life and a lower environmental cost over time. Many leading manufacturers, including those represented by Saxen such as Comfort Seating , now offer refurbishment and component replacement services to support long-term use and adaptability.

Collaborate early and communicate often

Sustainable specification succeeds through collaboration. Engage early with suppliers, contractors, and clients to align on sustainability objectives. Set clear criteria for product performance, certifications, and end-of-life options from the outset.

Sharing knowledge and encouraging open dialogue between disciplines helps identify opportunities for innovation—whether through material reuse, modularity, or circular procurement models.

Saxen is now the largest supplier of new and reused furniture in Scotland.

Shaping the future of sustainable interiors.

Designing and specifying with sustainability in mind is not about compromise. It is about creating enduring, responsible environments that support human wellbeing while reducing environmental harm. By combining new and refurbished products, prioritising transparency, and planning for longevity, architects and designers can lead the way towards a more circular and resilient built environment.

With partners such as Saxen providing access to sustainable new, second-hand, and expertly refurbished furniture, it has never been easier to design for performance, beauty, and responsibility.

Sustainable design is not the future of commercial interiors; it is the present and the standard by which all professional practice will be measured.

With Scotland’s largest selection of new and refurbished commercial furniture, and a commitment to quality, service, and sustainability, Saxen empowers the design community to build a more circular future for interiors.

Let’s create commercial spaces responsibly together.

Please get in touch to explore Saxen’s sustainable furniture solutions .

Product showcase: from rags to reuse

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 14:47:24 GMT

Sustainable surfaces: discover Rezign.

Crafted from recycled textiles by the team behind the Planq range of eco-friendly furniture, we explore how this innovative veneer sheet offers a chic, sustainable option for commercial interiors and furniture design.

In line with our ongoing c ommitment to responsible and forward-thinking interior solutions, Saxen is pleased to introduce Rezign Veneer a part of our eco-friendly product range . This stylish, eco-friendly surface transforms textile waste into sumptuous interior finishes. Architects and interior designers within Saxen's clientele have already integrated Rezign int o their project specifications, addressing sustainability targets with sophistication.

”By using recycled materials made from textile waste and biobased resources, we want to bridge the gap between contemporary design and environmental consciousness."

Anton and Dennis Teeuw , Rezign designers & founders

From rags to reuse.

Rezign is dedicated to creating sustainable surfaces from textile waste. Instead of discarding old clothing, fabrics, and offcuts, Rezign repurposes these materials by combining them with biobased fibres and a biodegradable binder. The result is a premium-quality veneer that is both visually striking and environmentally responsible.

Rezign's raw materials are sourced from discarded textiles such as denim, suits and uniforms, along with natural fibres like flax, hemp and jute coffee sacks. These fibres are shredded, carded into felt, and pressed with a biobased binder, derived from potato or corn starch, to create rigid veneer sheets or even 3D forms. The finished material has a thickness of 1 - 1.3 mm with a net dimension of 3000 x 970 mm, provides a sustainable alternative to standard high-pressure laminate (HPL), and can be applied in the same way.

Sustainability without compromising quality or style.

By addi ng Rezign Veneer to our material portfolio, Saxen Commercial Interiors is strengthening its dedication to exceptional design innovation and sustainability . T he benefits for our cli ents and the environment are clear:

Circular design

Textile waste is given new life as a beautiful, functional interior surface.

Aesthetic versatility

Rezign Veneer can be tinted, patterned or even produced using a client’s own textile waste, allowing for unique and meaningful design outcomes.

Reduced environmental impact

Reusing waste materials and employing biodegradable binders lowers reliance on virgin resources and decreases overall carbon footprint.

Distinctive design value

Interiors featuring Rezign Veneer demonstrate authentic environmental responsibility, resonating with clients and end-users who value sustainable practices.

Practical performance

The material can be processed using conventional veneer techniques, offering durability and aesthetic quality with appropriate care.

Design with a conscience.

Rezign Veneer is highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of interior applications, including furniture surfaces , wall panels, shelving, and decorative accents. It can even be shaped into custom forms thanks to its flexible production process. The team at Saxen will work with clients to ensure that Rezign performs consistently across all applications.

As with any innovative material, there are specific characteristics to respect. Rezign Veneer is not fully waterproof, so locations with prolonged exposure to moisture should be avoided. In terms of maintenance, gentle cleaning methods should always be used, avoiding strong chemicals or abrasive products to preserve the surface’s integrity.

Rezign can also help you reach the sustainability goals for your projects or company, and can even do so using your own textile waste . Imagine tabletops or cabinets made from your own company clothing that otherwise would be sent to landfill.

Saxen: where style meets sustainable interiors.

The introduction of Rezign Veneer perfectly aligns with Saxen’s mission to combine product design excellence with environmental responsibility. We will present sample kits in a range of colours and textures, produce case studies, and explore further bespoke opportunities – particularly those involving clients’ own textile waste.

If you would like to discuss specifying Rezign Veneer for your next project, whether for furniture, wall panels or bespoke joinery, please get in touch . We can share samples, provide technical details and discuss how we can help you bring sustainable design to life in your next interior project.

Designing commercial spaces with reused furniture

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:00:18 GMT

Saxen wholeheartedly believe that commercial spaces should be sustainable, and practical without sacrificing style and affordability. By combining innovative design with cost-effective solutions, we aim to transform the way people think about commercial spaces, proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand without breaking the bank.

In today’s office, retail, hospitality, education, and healthcare environments, organisations are expected to reflect not only their brand identity but also their environmental commitments. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through the use of refurbished, recycled, reused, pre-loved, and re-loved furniture.

From iconic seating options like the celebrated Herman Miller Aeron and Humanscale’s Freedom office chairs, to reupholstered collaborative pods by Orangebox, Scotland's architects, interior designers, and procurement specifiers are increasingly turning to refurbished premium furniture to give their commercial interior spaces a second life without compromising on performance or design. Saxen is here to help.

Why choose refurbished furniture for your commercial space ?

How to integrate refurbished furniture into commercial interior design .

Blend old and new furnishings

Pair refurbished lounge chairs with modern tables to strike a contemporary balance.

Custom upholstery

Refresh soft seating, booths, pods, and upholstered task chairs in your corporate colours for a cohesive and professional brand identity.

Prioritise ergonomics

Saxen RefurbHub 's refurbished task chairs, including iconic designs like Miller's Aeron, Humanscale's Liberty, Orangebox's Do, or Steelcase's Gesture chairs, are adjusted and tested for comfort and proper back support in everyday use.

Celebrate iconic design

Featuring reloved pieces from renowned, leading brands demonstrates both sustainability and an appreciation of good design.

Who could benefit most from reused commercial furniture?

Corporate workplaces

Businesses across Scotland extend the life of premium ergonomic seating, creating sustainable and high-performance offices.

Creative and co-working spaces

Refurbished pods and collaborative furniture provide flexible, stylish solutions for shared workspaces without costing the earth.

Hospitality sector

Hotels, cafés, and restaurants use affordable refurbished designer pieces to create welcoming, distinctive interiors with sustainable credentials.

Retail and showrooms

Second-hand and recycled furniture helps retailers design memorable customer experiences and stand out from the competition.

Education

Schools, colleges, and universities benefit from durable, cost-effective refurbished furniture to support productive learning environments.

Healthcare

Hospitals and clinics can integrate refurbished seating and storage to achieve comfort, functionality, and sustainability while maintaining tight budgets.

“The furniture industry's traditional take-make-dispose model is increasingly unsustainable. That's why the Saxen team is working hard to transform the lifecycle of commercial interiors with eco-friendly, preloved furnishings.”

~ Shirley Wallace Saxen founder

Hero to net-zero.

The Scottish Government promotes net-zero furniture procurement by encouraging sustainable procurement practices through guidance, policy updates, and framework agreements, while also supporting circular economy initiatives such as reuse and remanufacturing.

Key aspects of the Scottish Government's approach to net-zero.

Net-zero commitment

Scotland has a legally mandated target to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, driving change in public and private sectors.

Circular economy

The Scottish Government supports a circular economy, a system focused on reducing waste, reusing and repairing products, and regenerating natural systems.

Sustainable procurement

This ensures that goods and services are procured in a way that benefits the environment, society, and the economy over the long term. The Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 establishes the duty of sustainable procurement for public bodies.

Framework agreements

These are agreements that set out terms for future contracts, making it easier for organisations to buy from approved suppliers like Saxen and the RefurbHub.

Saxen: Recognised as specialists in refurbished furniture.

Saxen recently celebrated a significant milestone by being added as an official supplier on the APUC framework. APUC serves as the procurement centre of expertise for all of Scotland's universities and colleges, providing essential guidance and support in sourcing goods and services. Joining this esteemed group not only highlights Saxen's commitment to excellence in supplying new and refurbished furniture, but also opens up new avenues for collaboration and innovation with educational institutions across the region.

"The Scottish Government is committed to re-using and recycling furniture. This includes reupholstering existing furniture for re-use on our estate, repurposing items with other public bodies and ethical disposal of any end-of-life product. Our first approach is to consider re-using our existing furniture rather than procure new."

RefurbHub.

Scotland’s furniture refurbishment specialists .

RefurbHub is part of the renowned Saxen group of companies. We specialise in extending the life of premium commercial furniture. From renewing office seating chairs for offices in Glasgow to reupholstering and supplying preloved sofas for universities in Edinburgh, we help companies across Scotland design more sustainably, cost-effectively, and stylishly.

It's a furniture REvolution.

Designing for reuse with refurbished, recycled, preloved, and reloved furniture is about much more than saving money. It’s about creating meaningful, sustainable spaces. Whether it’s a refurbished task chair, a renewed bench desk, or an upcycled locker unit, refurbished commercial furniture demonstrates that environmental responsibility and great design go hand-in-hand.

At RefurbHub in Ayrshire near Glasgow, we make sustainable design a reality, helping businesses across the United Kingdom to renew their workspaces, reduce their environmental impact, and showcase interiors that truly stand out.

Considering using preloved furnishings to enhance your next project? Saxen are the largest supplier of new and refurbished furniture in Scotland. Connect with our RefurbHub team and explore your options.

Savills Glasgow

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 17:46:51 GMT

From a blank canvas to a productive workspace, Saxen supported global real estate advisor, Savills, with their complete office fit-out in Glasgow. The space is located on the 5th floor of the Cadworks™ building and is part of Scotland’s first net-zero carbon office development.

Saxen contributed to creating a workspace that is both modern and visually striking, while also meeting high-performance standards. With a full-scale fit-out of over 10,000 square feet, Saxen supplied a range of products, from loose furniture to bespoke fitted lockers to ceiling panels, working closely with our trusted manufacturers to deliver on time and within budget.

New and refurbished furniture supply.

Products were selected from New Design Group, Imperial Office Furniture, JDD Furniture, Edit Office, Workstories, Ocee & Four Design, Pedrali, sixteen3, Luxy, and Vepa.

A key priority of the project was the attention to detail in the overall aesthetic and incorporating bespoke soft furnishings to complement the architectural design.

Many of the furniture items are designed and manufactured locally, including the room dividers, quiet booths, and all acoustic solutions. The wall coverings, ceiling panels, and bespoke rafts were made by Koala Acoustics in East Kilbride.

It was also important to Savills that each member of staff had access to a height-adjustable desk. Through our RefurbHub , we supplied refurbished Sedus desking, which was restored in-house at Saxen in Newmilns. Each desk was refreshed with powder-coated leg frames and components, and the original tops were reused, delivering a sustainable solution within budget.

The result of this project is a sustainable, innovative, and pleasant space to work in, and Savills is proud to operate out of its new home in the heart of Glasgow’s financial district.

Savills' fit-out by Insite Contracts was in collaboration with Saxen, CBA Chartered Quantity Surveyors, Campbells Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, and Versatile Solutions Group.

Join us at Ayrshire Business Week's B2B Exhibition

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:04:35 GMT

Network, collaborate, and celebrate with us at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business Week's B2B Exhibition on Wednesday, 1st October.

Ayrshire Business Week brings together over 1,200 attendees from local businesses, entrepreneurs, and key decision makers. Featuring keynote speakers, networking events, workshops, and exhibitions it’s a brilliant opportunity for the Ayrshire business community to connect.

Saxen will be exhibiting once again at the B2B exhibition on Wednesday, 1st October. We'll be showcasing our new RefurbHub initiative, and our team of commercial interior experts will be on hand to discuss how Saxen's innovative approach to sustainable interiors makes them affordable and accessible to all.

Ayrshire Chamber's B2B exhibition is free for visitors to attend. If you're looking to be inspired by local businesses, don't miss Ayrshire's biggest B2B Exhibition.

Join us on Stand 56

Wednesday, 1st October

9.30 am - 12.30 pm

The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock

Product showcase: award-winning cork comfort

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:54:22 GMT

Isomi adds six new products to Tejo, going carbon-negative .

A range made with natural materials – cork instead of plywood, natural latex instead of foam, wool and hemp instead of polyester — Tejo by Isomi welcomes six new items into its award-winning collection.

In addition to a modular soft seating range and a table, which we previously spotlighted , Isomi has launched a new lounge chair, stool, ottoman, side tables, a dining table, and a lectern. Each item in the collection is carefully curated with regenerative, carbon-negative materials to ensure it’s part of the circular design model.

”Tejo reflects our ambition to create pieces that tread lightly on the planet, yet make a meaningful, lasting impact in the spaces we inhabit.

Paul Crofts, designer & founder

The harvesting of Tejo's cork

Tejo is made from recycled cork waste from wine stoppers. The cork is harvested from trees grown in responsibly managed forests in the Alentejo region of Portugal. It is harvested by hand from the bark of cork trees every nine to twelve years without cutting down or damaging the tree. This traditional method of harvesting allows the tree to continue growing after harvest, while absorbing CO 2 and preserving vital biodiversity.

"We believe the future of design lies in more considered material choices and thoughtful assembly. ” ~ Paul Crofts, designer & founder

Tejo lounge: balancing form, function, and sustainability

The new Tejo lounge chair honours the same soft contours and tactile surface of the original Tejo seating system but is available as a rounded singular seat, or a two- or three-seater sofa. Being compact, it’s suitable for a variety of environments, including commercial interiors and residential spaces. Optional extras include integrated power, a planter, screen divider, or table so you can make Tejo Lounge work for your space.

Tejo ottoman: multi-functional versatility

Add to the Tejo family with a soft and curvy ottoman, available in two sizes. Made in the same style and with the same material palette as Tejo Lounge – including recycled waste cork, natural latex, and wool upholstery – the ottoman is the perfect addition for comfort. Suitable as a footrest, stool, or a soft table, the Tejo Ottoman is available in a range of upholstery options to match or complement your other Tejo products.

Tejo dining table: the centrepiece of gatherings

The new Tejo table makes a statement. An excellent talking point and comfortable anchor in shared spaces, it features an entirely cork base in a distinctive shape and a tabletop made from Richlite, a high-performance material made from post-consumer recycled paper and bio-resin. This dining table is as sustainable as it is innovative.

Tejo stool: the best seat in the house

Made from a single block of reclaimed cork, the new Tejo Stool features a rounded base and soft square top, with a unique edge that adds to your comfort while doubling as a natural handle. This lightweight and durable seat is made from cork, with the option to be upholstered, making it a flexible choice for various spaces. Whether you’re looking for an individual stool, you’re creating a cluster, or you’re assembling the seats around the Tejo dining table, this is a timeless piece designed to look natural yet bold in its environment.

Tejo lectern: putting sustainability on a podium

To complete the Tejo collection, meet the new Lectern. Both beautiful and functional, the lectern offers a natural presence for learning, hospitality, and commercial environments. Featuring a cork base and minimal detailing, it exudes quiet confidence while matching the rest of the collection.

For over 10 years, Isomi has been a leader in sustainable, versatile, and striking furniture systems for both public and private spaces. All the pieces in the Tejo collection are modular and easy-to-specify solutions, ensuring responsible material sourcing to achieve a carbon-negative approach. This allows your business to prioritise the planet while creating an interior that sparks inspiration.

Tejo by Isomi, supplied by Saxen: Scottish furniture supplier

Saxen, Scotland’s commercial interior specialists, is pleased to supply Isomi’s Tejo range. The modular furniture systems, stools, tables, and lecterns blend beautifully together and combine seamlessly with existing furniture in spaces of any size or layout.

Contact us to learn more about the Tejo collection and how you can use it in your office, hospitality, retail or domestic space.

Saxen event at Il Salotto

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 15:56:21 GMT

And... lift off.

We had an exceptional day launching our partnership with Il Salotto.

The event facilitated meaningful discussions on key topics, including effective design, sustainability, innovation, new culinary techniques, and the critical importance of reuse and refurbishment in achieving a fully circular economy.

with thanks

We would like to extend our gratitude to Joanna Knight, Kevin Green, Sam Coggin, Ross Dutton, and Mei Li for sharing their valuable expertise and fostering an environment conducive to open discussions. Thanks also go to all who attended the event to engage with the presentations and celebrate alongside the Saxen team.

Additionally, we'd like to thank Sara at Il Salotto for her gracious hospitality and thoughtful provisions. We look forward to our future collaborations and opportunities.

Refurbished furniture: the smart choice

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 14:57:05 GMT

In the rapidly evolving business landscape of today, office design transcends mere visual appeal — it encompasses functionality, cost-efficiency, sustainability, and the well-being of employees.

Whether you're setting up a startup's new headquarters or revamping a corporate space, furniture plays a pivotal role in shaping how your team operates and feels.

Rather than automatically opting for brand-new desks, chairs, and storage solutions, a more intelligent choice is gaining popularity among innovative businesses: refurbished office furniture .

revive, restore, reuse, relove:

environmentally friendly commercial furniture solutions.

Purchasing refurbished furniture is not only cost-effective but also a smart choice. Let's delve into some of the reasons why...

Sustainability isn’t just good PR – it’s a responsibility. Refurbished furniture helps your company walk the walk.

~ Ross Dutton Saxen MD

Join the REvolution.

Smart, responsible, and forward-thinking.

Shopping for reused office furniture is more than a budget-friendly option — it’s a strategic business decision that aligns financial responsibility with environmental consciousness . It's also a chance to be part of a growing trend that prioritises sustainability without sacrificing style or quality.

So, before your company orders a brand-new set of desks and chairs, ask yourself: Could refurbished be the more intelligent choice?

In most cases, the answer is a resounding yes.

Looking to go green? Saxen are the largest supplier of new and refurbished furniture in Scotland. Connect with our RefurbHub team and explore your options. Your budget, and the planet, will thank you.

Re:Launch at Il Salotto

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 16:50:57 GMT

We'd love you to join us in Glasgow's Merchant City, as we launch our partnership with Il Salotto.

Tuesday 11th September, 12 noon to 8 pm

the venue: Il Salotto

To celebrate, Saxen is hosting a series of talks and thought-provoking presentations from leading figures in furniture sustainability, alongside the opportunity to connect with fellow architects, designers, and innovators.

We will be showcasing a mix of refurbished and new products, highlighting how sustainability and design go hand in hand. Be part of the conversation shaping the future of workplaces - where reuse, circularity and creativity meet.

Drop in any time from 12 noon to 8 pm on Thursday, 11th September at Il Salotto, 20 Bell St, Glasgow G1 1LG.

"It is estimated that 22 million pieces of furniture are discarded every year - We must change and recognise that reuse is an imperative. "

Joanna Knight , event speaker

The event

For more information on the event and activities, and to register a place at the talks, please click here .

12.00 noon

RE:Launch event opens

12.30 pm

The Importance of Reuse - we don’t have 1.8 planets

by Joanna Knight CEnv FISEP FRSA.

Joanna is a sustainability consultant, published writer, and speaker with over 30 years' experience in the furnishing sector. She is a co-founder of the Sustainable Design Collective, a non-executive director of FIRA, chair of FISP's Advisory Committee, and chairs the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee for the charity The Furniture Makers' Company.

1.30 pm

Break for lunch

2.00 pm

Social value - resource not waste

by Kevin Green, waste match director at Mitie.

Kevin has been turning corporate waste into community assets for two decades. He will discuss how communities often lack resourcefulness rather than resources, and explore how reuse, resale, and repurposing can unlock financial and social value.

3.30 pm

JLL's Reuse Revolution – inside the UK's largest reuse project

by Katrina Norman, business manager at Tétris, JLL.

A focus on collaboration and innovation - from shaping the brief with designers to pushing clients toward bold new product thinking, Katrina will share how early collaboration drives smarter choices and flawless delivery.

5.30 pm

Food Waste Feast – sustainable cooking to reduce food waste
by Margaret Li, editor and cookbook author.

Margaret (known as Mei), the author of 'Perfectly Good Food', is passionate about achieving a zero-waste approach to home cooking. She'll be sharing tips and techniques to reduce food waste, including sustainable recipe ideas that utilise what's already in your fridge, as well as making cocktails.

6.30 pm
Networking

Drinks with entertainment

We are hiring

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 15:27:33 GMT

We are looking for a passionate individual to join our team.

Sales Executive

Are you a passionate and results-driven individual with a flair for sales? Do you have a keen eye for design and an interest in commercial interiors? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to join our dynamic team as a Sales Executive at our commercial interiors company based in Newmilns, Ayrshire.

Company overview

The Saxen group of companies take pride in providing high-quality office furniture solutions to businesses across the UK. With a reputation for excellence, we offer a vast range of commercial furniture that enhances productivity and promotes a positive work environment.

Saxen Ltd has recently joined forces with The Office Crowd to form Saxen RefurbHub , a dynamic new division combining decades of industry expertise with a shared commitment to sustainability and circular design. This exciting merger strengthens our offering, allowing us to provide both new and premium refurbished branded office furniture to clients nationwide and throughout Europe.

We've also recently taken a new design-led showroom space at Il Salotto , in Glasgow's Merchant City — a creative hub where we collaborate with architects, designers and commercial clients on inspiring, sustainable interiors.

As a Sales Executive for the Office Group division, you will be crucial in representing our brand, building strong relationships with clients, and driving sales growth.

Responsibilities

Identify and target prospective clients through various channels, including cold calling, networking events, and digital platforms.
Develop and maintain a strong pipeline of leads, nurturing potential customers throughout the sales process.
Consult with clients to understand their office furniture needs and offer tailored solutions that align with their requirements and budget.
Present product offerings in a compelling and informative manner, showcasing the benefits and features of our products.
Prepare and deliver persuasive sales presentations and proposals to key decision-makers.
Negotiate contracts and terms of sales, ensuring a win-win outcome for both the client and the company.
Collaborate with the design and customer service team to ensure a seamless client experience from order placement to delivery and installation.
Stay up to date with industry trends and market developments to maintain a competitive edge.

Requirements

Proven track record in sales, with a focus on B2B sales.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and establish long-lasting client relationships.
Strong presentation and negotiation abilities, demonstrating confidence and professionalism.
A genuine interest in commercial furniture and a good eye for design aesthetics.
Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Knowledge of the office furniture industry is advantageous but not essential; a willingness to learn and adapt quickly is key.
Full UK driving licence and the ability to travel as needed for client meetings and industry events.

Benefits

Competitive salary with flexible working.
Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
Collaborative and supportive team environment.
Access to a diverse range of innovative and premium office furniture products
Opportunities for career advancement within a growing organisation

If you are ready to make a significant impact in the office furniture industry and thrive in a challenging yet rewarding sales role, we want to hear from you. Apply by submitting your CV to shirley@saxen.com with a cover letter detailing relevant experience and why you would be an excellent fit for this role.

This is a full-time role – 40 hours p/w, Monday to Friday. We are an equal opportunities employer.

Job type: Full-time

Schedule : Monday to Friday

Work location: In person

Salary: £30,000–£55,000 per year

Benefits: Company pension, free on-site parking

Product showcase: one chair, multiple identities

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 13:25:50 GMT

Designed by the award-winning Alejandro Villarreal, the mid-century-inspired Otto collection of chairs and tables brings aesthetic integration, elegance, and a touch of playfulness to any space.

Otto, designed by Alejandro Villarreal.

Alejandro Villarreal holds a postgrad in Product Design from the Royal College of Art, London, and is the founder and principal of both Hayche and Hierve , an award-winning multidisciplinary design consultancy based in Mexico City and London. Villarreal's signature juxtaposition of materials is showcased in the Otto range , with its sculptural bent steel frame supporting an intricately curved plywood backrest and seat.

"The Otto armchair was conceived as a light and stackable chair that blends the warmth and soft curvature of the plywood with a simple, rational and clean metal frame."

- Alejandro Villarreal, designer

Otto is playful, but it is serious, too. The Otto family of furniture is as sustainable as it is practical. This cradle-to-cradle range has been designed and manufactured with the circular economy in mind – detachable components make future reparation, renovation, and recycling straightforward.

With its compact and carbon-conscious design, Otto can be used in a range of environments and is especially appealing when seamless integration between work areas and styles is a key aesthetic consideration.

Seriously playful – Otto 4-legged armchair.

The Otto four-legged armchair is available in Standard and Colour Series finishes. Both are sophisticated yet simple, featuring an elegant metal frame and a sculptural backrest and seat crafted from oak veneer on a formed birch plywood base. The backrest and frame are joined with a distinctive T-shaped metal connector.

Otto armchairs are stackable up to four chairs with easily detachable components. These chairs are excellent for visitor and training seating, as well as auditorium setups, and education settings where space is at a premium.

The standard series features three colour variations: oak and black, oak and white, and walnut and black. The colour series is available in six unique and vibrant colourways. For an intentional pop of colour, this design by Villarreal is timeless.

Turn heads – Otto swivel chair with pyramid base .

Perfect for conference, meeting, and boardrooms, the Otto task chair with a black aluminium pyramid swivel base is a supportive and practical choice. It includes an upholstered padded seat for additional comfort and is available in four variations: oak and fabric; oak and leather; black and fabric; black and leather.

"The main detail of the chair is the connection point between components. After more than seven iterations, we came up with a subtle yet structurally strong solution."

Alejandro Villarreal – designer

Work smart – Otto task chair with 5-star base.

Round off your Otto-styled seating with the Otto task chair. This stylish desk chair features a 5-star swivel base with castors, allowing for easy movement around your cubicle or desk, and includes a height-adjustable padded seat for added comfort.

Finishes available: oak and fabric; oak and leather; black and fabric; and black and leather.

Completely cohesive – Otto tables .

To maintain a cohesive aesthetic, the Otto collection features coordinating 700 mm square, Ø900 mm circular, and 1600 x 800 mm rectangular tables. Standard finishes include black or white powder-coated metal legs paired with black or white high-pressure laminate, set atop stained FSC-certified birch plywood. Specials are available on request to meet your interior specifications.

Hayche – the award-winning brand with creative DNA.

London-based but globally inspired, Hayche is a brand with ‘creative DNA’. Their philosophy is that design should enhance people’s lives in a way that allows them to create a unique and bespoke space, enabling individuals or brands to express themselves.

Hayche creates pieces that stand the test of time, spanning into the future, while honouring history. Details drive them without compromising quality, imagination, beauty, and, of course, functionality. The Otto collection is a perfect example of that – the chairs are sustainable, stackable, space-saving, comfortable, and versatile, suiting a variety of styles and tasks.

Contact us to learn more about the Otto range. Saxen can take care of all your office furniture needs, including space planning, furniture installation, move management, design and furniture recycling.

Culzean Castle Home Farm Kitchen

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 08:39:03 GMT

Saxen was commissioned by the National Trust for Scotland to refurbish the café area within the historic Culzean Castle Home Farm Kitchen.

Saxen gave the space a fresh, modern update while remaining respectful of the castle’s heritage and the home farm setting. Sustainability was a priority throughout, aligning with the Trust’s environmental commitments.

The brief called for a balance of heritage and contemporary design, using natural materials and a considered colour palette. The overall concept was to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that felt in keeping with the castle’s character, while incorporating sustainable practices and materials at every stage of the project.

sustainable furniture solutions

The existing café tables were refurbished by reusing their original legs, reducing waste and preserving existing materials. New tabletops were sourced from Vepa using their innovative CircuBoard. These are designed to allow the top surface to be removed and replaced at the end of its life. This approach guarantees the reuse of valuable raw materials and significantly lowers the carbon footprint across the product lifecycle.

To enhance comfort and atmosphere, Edit’s acoustic panels made from recycled bottles were suspended to aid acoustic absorption, provide zoning, and help flow. Quilted banquette seating was installed along the back walls in both café sections. Supplied by Sixteen3, the banquettes were upholstered in Camira’s Mainline Flax – a sustainable, compostable fabric made from a blend of wool and plant fibres. This choice not only supports sustainability goals but also adds warmth and texture to the space.

For the loose seating, an eclectic approach was adopted to create visual interest with a layered aesthetic. Vepa’s Hemp Coffee 400 chairs were used in their natural finish, showcasing their innovative construction from hemp fibres and upcycled coffee sacks. These were complemented by additional chairs using the same frame, upholstered in a selection of faux leathers from Agua’s Taurus and Entwine collections. This allowed for a balanced aesthetic of raw and refined materials, supporting both comfort and durability.

outdoor bistro furniture

To refresh the outdoor café area, traditional picnic bench seating was repurposed and moved to other areas of the estate to increase overall capacity. In the courtyard, Saxen Interiors introduced new tables and chairs from Pedrali, chosen for their durability and elegant design.

A soft palette of sage and stone was selected to harmonise with the natural surroundings and historic architecture, offering a relaxed and comfortable environment for visitors to enjoy the courtyard views.

project summary

Saxen successfully delivered a thoughtful, sustainable refurbishment of Culzean Castle Home Farm Kitchen. The design comfortably blends modern comfort with the site’s historic character, using responsibly sourced, repurposed, and renewable materials throughout.

From CircuBoard table tops to compostable upholstery and hemp-based seating, every element of the project reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. The result is a welcoming, stylish space – indoors and out – that enhances the visitor experience while supporting the environmental goals of the National Trust for Scotland .

Pioneering sustainable spaces with strategic partnership

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 16:26:19 GMT

Saxen merger featured in the latest Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce Your Business magazine.

Commercial interiors specialist Saxen is pleased to announce its strategic merger with furniture refurbishment company, The Office Crowd. This partnership enhances Saxen's capability to deliver high-quality, sustainable interior solutions throughout the United Kingdom while being sensitive to budget constraints.

“Once considered one of Scotland's best-kept secrets, this growth is set to propel Saxen into a unique position within the industry and to the forefront of diverse net-zero solutions in the UK.” – Shirley Wallace, Founding Director.

The Saxen portfolio now includes a 44,000-square-foot warehouse and workshop adjacent to its Newmilns showroom, making it the largest refurbishment facility in Scotland. This dedicated space has enabled Saxen to create a unique service – RefurbHub – where they now supply refurbished office chairs, soft seating, storage, and desking from high-end brands such as Herman Miller, Vitra, and Steelcase. In addition, they offer an in-house restoration service, enabling customers to revive their existing furnishings, thereby extending the lifecycle of their products and reducing waste sent to landfills.

“ The furniture industry's traditional take-make-dispose model is increasingly unsustainable. This partnership leverages both companies’ extensive experience and influence to transform the lifecycle of office furnishings.” – Ross Dutton, Managing Director.

Saxen is planning to host a behind-the-scenes networking event this summer in partnership with Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce , showcasing their exciting new services.

Saxen announces merger

mandy.mcdougall@losslessmedia.com (Mandy McDougall) — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 16:45:56 GMT

Saxen has some fantastic news. Press play to discover what we've been up to.

Saxen has exciting news that will secure our position as pioneers in diverse net-zero solutions. We recognised that the furniture industry's traditional take-make-dispose model is increasingly unsustainable, so we are pleased to announce our strategic merger with furniture refurbishment company, The Office Crowd. This will enhance our capability to deliver high-quality, sustainable and budget-friendly interior solutions throughout the United Kingdom.

By leveraging both companies’ extensive experience and influence, we plan to transform the lifecycle of office furnishings and make a genuine difference in the journey to net zero.

With a 44,000-square-foot warehouse and workshop adjacent to our Ayrshire showroom, we are now the largest refurbishment facility in Scotland. This dedicated space helps us offer a unique service. Saxen’s new RefurbHub supplies refurbished office chairs, soft seating, and desking from high-end brands such as Herman Miller, Vitra, and Steelcase. In addition, we offer an in-house restoration service where we can revive your existing furnishings, keeping them out of landfill.

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Taking a stand

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:46:44 GMT

Saxen’s green philosophy reaches every part of the business. Our commitment to net-zero influences every project, reflecting a deep commitment to sustainability.

The Saxen team know that environmental responsibility and good design aren’t mutually exclusive, and that the principle of 'less is more' is more important than ever. By using renewable materials, manufacturing locally , and designing a reconfigurable stand that slots together without the need for environmentally unfriendly adhesives or plastic fixtures, we have created an ethically sound display with a significant visual impact, rather than an environmental one.

In a world where resources should be protected with restrained use of materials and energy, innovative design is no longer a choice – it’s a necessity. This agile stand has been designed by our in-house creative team, initially for a 2 x 2 metre footprint to promote Saxen’s newly launched RefurbHub . It has already entered its second iteration for its permanent home in Il Salotto , increasing to a 4 x 2 metre installation.

The concept focuses on creating a stand that can be easily added to, reconfigured, and relocated as needed without the need for any tools. Its components can easily be switched to adapt to new product displays, helping make this stand useful for years to come. The shelf display is constructed from movable pegs that can be adjusted to display replacement furniture components, while the noughts-and-crosses panel promotes interaction with the tactile birch ply.

Saxen is committed to innovation in the commercial interiors sector, and we know this transformation begins internally. By driving creativity and environmental responsibility, we aim to set a benchmark for uncompromising sustainability that resonates throughout the industry.

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Sustainability Week designpopup at Il Salotto

Fri, 30 May 2025 10:58:30 GMT

Saxen is officially launching the RefurbHub at the Sustainability Week #DesignPopUp in Il Salotto, Glasgow.

Tue, 10th June to Thu, 12th June

the venue: Il Salotto

Sustainability Week at Il Salotto in Glasgow's vibrant Merchant City is the perfect time and place for Saxen to launch its newest initiative – the RefurbHub.

Il Salotto offers a welcoming space for creative professionals — a place for provocative conversations, new ideas and innovation. Its sustainable ethos and design-led philosophies resonate with the Saxen team. With a passion for innovative products and forward-thinking ideas, Saxen is excited to be part of this event.

Designed to facilitate specialised conversations, visitors will gain tailored insights into commercial space solutions. The event encourages a closer look at trends, challenges, and innovations, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues that drive decision-making and design choices.

more than just a space—it’s a home for creative professionals to come together, exchange ideas, and spark the conversations that drive real change.

the launch: RefurbHub

Saxen is celebrating the launch of RefurbHub .

We recognised that the traditional 'take-make-dispose' model is increasingly unsustainable, so we decided to make a tangible difference. Our new RefurbHub transforms the lifecycle of office furnishings and secures Saxen's position as a pioneer in diverse net-zero solutions.

Saxen's RefurbHub is now the largest refurbishment facility in Scotland, transforming the lifecycle of office furnishings and supplying refurbished office chairs, soft seating, and desking from high-end brands such as Herman Miller, Vitra, Humanscale, and Steelcase. In addition, we offer an in-house restoration service where we can revive your existing furnishings, keeping them out of landfill.

Visit our #DesignPopUp at Il Salotto from Tuesday 10th to Thursday 12th of June to discover how RefurbHub can revolutionise how you look at preloved furnishings and reinvent your commercial spaces.

Once considered one of Scotland's best-kept secrets, this initiative is set to propel Saxen into a unique position to the forefront of diverse net zero solutions in the UK.

The event

For more information on the event and activities, and to register a place at the talks, please visit:

designpopup.com/sustainabilityweek

Tuesday, 10th June

10 am

Exhibition opens

12.30 – 1.30 pm

Closing the Loop: Circular Economy Presentation with Emilia Kenyon, Graven

1.30 – 2.30 pm
Sustainability at BOLON , remote CPD with Hakan

5.30 – 8.30 pm

Green Matters Quiz Night
Sustainability Pub Quiz

Wednesday, 11th June

10 am

Exhibition opens

12.30 – 1.30 pm

Innovation & Sustainability talk with Lynsey Brydson, Be-St.Build

1.30 – 2.30 pm

Sustainable Hope a presentaion with Ben Raw, Civic Engineers

4.00 – 8.00 pm

Interior Design University Showcase 2025 - At the BRIGGAIT in partnership with MLA

Thursday, 12th June

12.30 – 1.30 pm

Sustainability at SEDUS presentation with Juile McAloon

1.30 – 2.30 pm

Workshop

5.30 – 9 pm

Retrofitting that Works
Panel discussion

Followed by networking drinks

Product showcase: bold and playful British furniture

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 16:58:46 GMT

With an impressive sustainability story, a manufactory in the UK, and bold product design, the Saxen team is excited to present ob&b's unique soft seating, pods, tables, and storage collections.

ob&b designs, manufactures and installs great British furniture. With a passion for design, the company came to life in 1983 when its two directors, Dinah Phillips and Richard Berry, met on a foundation course at Bourneville College of Art at the age of 21. They set up a furniture workshop in High Wycombe; fast-forward to today, and they have a factory in the Midlands.

products designed for agile working environments and with the circular economy in mind.

ob&b — makers of great British furniture.

The ob&b team comprises talented upholsters, designers, pattern cutters, frame makers, and machinists who create their unforgettable line of products. Every item is designed and developed in-house with a focus on even the tiniest of details to ensure it’s something that they can be proud to add to their collection, and is backed by a ten-year warranty.

Bubba – undulating curves.

The Bubba range includes a sofa, chair, pod, and table — all statement pieces with the perfect amount of quirkiness. The design boasts a series of undulating curves on the upholstered base. With many configuration options, Bubba works for casual get-together areas, a waiting area, or even as a singular chair for relaxing.

There’s also Bubba Curve, a gently curving seating system which suits collaborative or agile working. All Bubba Curve configurations are available with planters to bring in some biophilic energy.

The Bubba table's base slides perfectly under chairs, sofas, and modular seating in the Bubba and Connect ranges. Made from metal and glass, it is 100% recyclable. Beyond being sustainable, it’s also seriously stylish, available in a wide range of powder-coated colours and metallic finishes, with unique tabletop options such as Cosmos, Ocean, and Spectra – all with an exposed ply edge.

Nelly table – playful and rotund.

The Nelly table is both curvy and practical, making it a prominent centrepiece in any space. Available in two diameters — 760 or 1000 mm — it’s perfect for small or large rooms. You can choose a glass or laminate top, and the fabric base can be specified from a wide range of fabric bands from renowned manufacturers such as Camira, Kvadrat, Agua, Gabriel and Panaz.

Blah Blah – space to talk.

What a perfect name for this range of 1-, 2-, 4-, and 6-person booths, designed for online meetings, collaborative chats, and making phone calls. We are particular fans of the Blah Blah Focus, a semi-private pod for one, which is a beautiful addition to open-plan environments, fostering a quiet, focused escape. Offered with a generous choice of fabrics, and smart power and data accessories, including battery power to allow total freedom of placement, you are in complete control of customising your Blah Blah Focus pod to create an extremely agile and mobile pod.

Perch — limitless configurations.

Crafted from responsibly sourced FSC-certified plywood, Perch can be used alone or in groups to create clusters of bleacher seating, bench seating, tables, and storage boxes. Meticulously designed to function as a multifunctional, modular range with a variety of sizes, shapes, and upholstery options, it’s the perfect all-in-one solution for demanding spaces. The photos speak for themselves.

Shaun — statement seating.

ob&b has a flair for designing curvy and chunky pieces, such as the bold Shaun chair and bench. This bubbly lounge chair is perfect for hospitality and residential interiors. With lashings of comfortable cushioning, it’s available in ob&b’s full fabric range and complements the Shaun bench perfectly. The Shaun bench is chunky, like the chair, but still compact, making it suitable for spaces of any size. Together, they work to create a soft but bold pair that is oh, so inviting.

The design is in the details.

Commitment to sustainability.

Like Saxen , ob&b are always looking for ways to incorporate sustainability into the finer details of their company. Their goal is to design and manufacture responsibly while minimising their carbon footprint and reducing waste. On top of that, they ensure that their furniture is quality, durable, and comfortable for at least a decade to reduce replacement rates and improve sustainability.

Their products are also made from parts that can be easily disassembled and reconfigured to suit ever-changing needs, making them versatile for years to come. With this easy reconfiguration option, it’s simple to replace single elements and recycle almost all components.

ob&b also provides a Take Back programme where they repurpose unwanted products. They will either refurbish or reuse the pieces for local charities. When neither of these options is available, they will recycle responsibly to avoid sending to landfill.

Keeping it local.

ob&b has invested heavily in their factory operations to ensure everything is done locally and sustainably. The factory is strategically located with all 15 of its suppliers within a 25-mile radius to reduce carbon emissions and boost the local economy.

The Saxen team is always delighted to find a manufacturer whose philosophy aligns so well with our own – and that's what ob&b is to us. They care about the ingredients, the ones that go into the design, the construction, the team as a whole, and the details that ensure a completely circular and sustainable model… just like us.

If you'd like an ob&b product in your space, contact Saxen for information on their full product range. We look forward to working together.

Product showcase: Les Forêts wall coverings by Arte

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:49:46 GMT

The Les Forêts collection from Arte includes a range of beautiful, textured wall coverings using natural materials – bark, raffia, wood – and forest patterns to make you feel immersed in the outdoors.

The collection combines contrasting natural materials, experimenting with formats and textures to deliver an interior choice unlike anything else we’ve seen before.

Les Forêts is an ode to the mysterious atmosphere of a dense forest.

Tinto wall covering – Les Forêts sustainable solutions

Take Tinto , a design made from the bark of a banana tree. The bark is dyed in various natural shades before being manually woven into a checkerboard pattern. It is then cut into tiles arranged in a tight pattern, available in shades cinnamon, chocolate, and moss.

Ruban wall covering – an offbeat beauty

Ruban is another playful design which takes risks with varying thicknesses to create an unexpected interior. Narrow raffia strips are hand-glued to a non-woven backing before being cut into wider strips. These strips are woven with ultra-fine thread, delivering a final design with an intriguing mix of narrow and wide strips. Available in green, oak, honey beige and sky blue.

Dioré by Arte – a printed high-pile textile

The Saxen team also love Dioré , a modern and abstract spin on classic tapestries. Through the textile and colour choices, it’s similar to a hand-tufted carpet. As a wall covering, it creates a dramatic, cosy and stately atmosphere. Inspired by the Forêt de Dioré, this wall covering is available in four shades — Grass, Desert Sun, Mustard, and Cobalt — all reflecting the impression of foliage.

Infini – instilling infinite calmness

Infini is an organic choice in pale, comforting colours: teal, mushroom, sandstone, and autumnal shades. It’s made from paper thread and banana leaf, hand-woven and dyed. The imperfections on the wall covering are intentional to showcase Infini’s authenticity. The fibres absorb the dye unevenly to create a natural and unique texture, and small knots are dotted throughout the covering, creating a lively effect.

Éclat — a wall covering that shimmers and shines

The word Éclat is French for ‘shine’ and that’s what this wall covering does in a room. Bold and subtly glossy, Éclat radiates a soft sheen that shimmers through the thin cork layer. Boasting a large block pattern reinforced by cork for a sturdy look, Éclat is available in seven colourways. Not only does this look fabulous on walls, but it makes quite the statement when applied to ceilings.

Tresse from Arte — a mellow covering in natural shades

Tresse is one of Artes' more playful wall coverings, designed to look good in any space. It features a print of casual braids made from natural fibres in varying thicknesses. Then, it’s finished with a layer of velour to ensure a soft surface that still accents the natural print. The product is available in a range of natural colours, including Khaki, Sepia, Tan, Straw, and Hazel.

Ajoura — an emblazoned impression

Born to be bold, Ajoura is a luxurious wall covering made from real wood and consisting of leaf and floral patterns. Boasting a dreamlike beauty and an impression of etching, the liveliness of Ajoura is something to behold. Available in Walnut, Birch, and Ebony finishes, it honours the intention of the Les Forêts collection: to immerse the viewer in the outdoors.

Contact us to learn more about the Les Forêts collection and how you can use it in your office, hospitality, or retail space.

Ashurst Boardroom

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 15:04:15 GMT

The Saxen team submitted a sustainable interiors proposal to Global law firm Ashurst , outlining the conversion of a theatre space at their offices in Glasgow into an innovative and stylish boardroom designed for enhanced international collaboration.

The concept aligned with the existing fit-out of three floors exhibiting light finishes and natural surfaces, retaining oak feature wall panels and ceilings. After an inspiring visit to Material Source Studio in Glasgow and keeping in line with Ashurst's ethos of using sustainable solutions where possible, Arte Les Forêts Tinto wall panels, sustainably manufactured using banana tree bark, were proposed for a striking feature wall.

The Saxen proposal offered a choice of two colour palettes. The first included moss green Tinto tiles, which subtly harmonised with the light finishes. The second offered a rich, warm, high-contrast palette with a dark ceiling and walls, accented with the cinnamon Tinto tile to complement the new dark orange Ashurst branding.

The drama of the dark and copper highlights was embraced. The 20-person boardroom table was refurbished in a dark grey veneer with 3D ply edging and integrated power, the walls were painted anthracite, and Noma armchairs on a spider base were upholstered in warm tones surrounding the boardroom table, offering comfort and support to every member.

Soft furnishings were upholstered in creamy and warm tones to create a welcoming, contemporary, and bold space.

Sheer curtains in Kvadrat Daybreak fabric provided privacy and dressed the glass door and partitions, giving the boardroom a ‘light at dawn’ feel, creating a natural atmosphere as the light changes throughout the day. Plants were provided by GP Plantscape, our trusted partner for biophilics.

It was a pleasure working with the Ashurst team and Insite Contracts throughout the refurbishment to deliver this welcoming, contemporary, and exceptional space.

Mocha Mousse: Pantone Colour of the Year 2025

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 18:41:34 GMT

Pantone, the authority on all things colour, has announced the 2025 Colour of the Year: Mocha Mousse. They describe it as a ‘simple and comforting’ hue; it’s a soft and warming brown with the mood of an unpretentious classic.

It’s charged with a richness and earthy elegance while nodding to little treat culture. Both the name and the tone, as well as Pantone’s imagery, immediately radiate the fragrance of coffee, chocolate, or a luxurious dessert, evoking the urge to find a spoon and savour.

It has the power to summon contentment and indulgence, tapping into society’s desire for harmonious comfort, whether that’s the yearning to get along with one another or the simple craving for an afternoon mocha.

Mocha Mousse is the 2025 Colour of the Year, and it’s here to awaken the senses.

a mellow brown hue whose inherent richness and sensorial and comforting warmth extends further into our desire for comfort

Laurie Pressman
VP of the Pantone Color Institute

The significance of Pantone Colour of the Year

Since 1999, Pantone has announced a yearly colour that signifies societal movements and current events around the world. It combines culture and colour, reflecting on the year gone by and offering a focal point for the next year, especially in the realm of fashion, makeup, and interiors.

Colour anthropologists spend the year reviewing what’s happening in the world, travelling to conduct interviews, and studying colour theory in order to choose the tone of the year. The chosen shade then sets the stage for many brands – Wix Studio, Pura, Ipsy, Post-It – to launch new products that pay homage to the leading colour.

Beyond new trends and the latest in-thing, Pantone’s colour of the year represents the language of colour and its power to say more than words can.

Mocha Mousse represents the desire for comfort

Mocha Mousse was chosen to represent the little treat culture: the popular practice of indulging in small but luxurious treats (an iced latte to go or a new soft blanket) as a reward or a mood-booster. It symbolises our desire for harmony or balance in a culture that so easily drives burnout.

Mocha Mousse, being a mellow brown tone with richness and the ability to prick up your senses – specifically taste and smell – has the same mouthwatering qualities as chocolate or coffee, reminding us of the satisfaction of simple pleasures that we can experience ourselves or share with others.

Mocha Mousse is underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures while being a humble yet luxurious hue. It’s comforting because it’s familiar; we can immediately associate the shade with something personal, but it’s still rich enough to be a force on its own.

Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence. Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic.

Leatrice Eiseman

Exec Director Pantone Color Institute

Embracing Mocha Mousse with Saxen

How to use Mocha Mouse in situ? What does it pair best with? How can it thrive as a colour?

Mocha Mousse is versatile. Strong enough to stand alone but modest enough to serve as a foundation, it works with a range of palettes and applications, from minimalist decor to elaborate designs across all colour-conscious industries.

It flourishes in airy environments with luxurious textiles: silk, satin, leathers, suedes, and shaggy textures, and it pairs very well with other neutrals, warm metallic colours, whites, or bolder shades such as powder blue, royal purple, or emerald.

If you love Mocha Mousse, contact us, and we will work with you to find fabrics in this shade.

Let’s explore Saxen’s range of furniture and find shades that will complement Mocha Mousse and work well in a similar palette.

Reece by sixteen3

With a minimalist and sustainable design, the Reece range by sixteen3 is a Japandi sofa collection with multiple configurations and customisable finishes. The frames can be made with 100% recycled plastic panels with 100% recyclability at the end of life. Reece is a natural and continuously renewable by-product of the agriculture industry, constructed with straw and reeds and leftover materials that would have otherwise been composted or burned.

Spaces by Connection

Spaces by Connection is a highly customisable ‘shapeshifting’ modular system inspired by primitive nomadic dwellings, designed to create areas of escape and shelter within the office. You can add walls, ceilings, screens, and extensions to create your bespoke shelter, choosing from a range of material options and colours. There is a Spaces for any space, whether in the hospitality, education, or commercial sector.

Fabrics by Agua

Agua Fabrics has a vast range of colours. These high-performance contract upholstery fabrics are designed for any sector. Agua Fabrics specialises in technical soft fabrics and faux leathers so you can create the environment you desire, using durable, fire-retardant, waterproof, and anti-microbial materials.

Pipes by Quadrifoglio

Pipes by the Italian furniture experts Quadrifoglio evokes the imagery of a weeping willow or a natural waterfall in a shade that will look stunning next to Mocha Mousse. With its branched design and tubular structure, built from woven aluminium, it’s a show-stopper and unique talking piece in every environment.

T45 by Quadrifoglio

Timeless and authoritative, the T45 executive desk brings an organic warmth to the office. This desk is available as a single workstation, a desk with a built-in modesty panel, or a table with an adjoining writing desk. Complete with functional accessories, such as a cable tray, T45 is easy to keep tidy and in turn, it keeps it comfortable and aesthetic appeal, even in busy environments.

If you love Mocha Mousse and want to adopt it for your designs, contact us , and we will work together to feature Pantone’s colour of the year 2025 in your space to create an atmosphere of warmth, elegance, and a hint of a sugar high.

Revive, restore, and relove at the RefurbHub

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:32:32 GMT

With millions of office desks and chairs ending up in landfill sites each year, participating in the circular economy through upcycling, re-homing, and repairing furniture has never been more important. To support this, Saxen have launched the RefurbHub.

Our team are passionate about extending the product life cycle of office furnishings. Every piece of furniture we restore or resell is one fewer item making its way to landfill. Our ongoing commitment to sustainable interior solutions means we can help reduce waste, conserve resources, and contribute to a greener planet.

We need to rethink how we view ageing furniture. Not just to save money, but to protect our planet's resources, the environment, and the future.

Shirley Wallace – Saxen MD

Embrace the circular economy with RefurbHub.

RefurbHub by Saxen is a new initiative that transforms tired office chairs, soft seating, desks, tables, and storage back to as-new condition at a fraction of the replacement cost. How we do it...

We reupholster.

RefurbHub's expert upholsterers can recover your tired commercial soft furnishings – reviving pieces that have been damaged, lost their plushness and cushioning, or simply no longer suit your style of interior style.

We can reupholster and revive your office chairs and soft seating, including task chairs, reception seating, banquet seating, fixed seating, bar seating, auditorium seating, public area seating, and breakout chairs – as well as fabric acoustic screens and notice boards. We can also replace old foam and webbing to ensure your refurbished seating is as comfortable as beautiful.

You can choose to have your items upholstered in a wide range of commercial fabrics, or if suitable, we can use your own custom textiles. We stock a wide range of swatches, and our experts can even advise you on what would best suit your needs and interior.

We repair.

In addition to our upholstery services, we repair faded, worn, scratched, or damaged furniture in an effort to bring classic pieces back to life. You can now enjoy your furniture for years to come.

The RefurbHub team will source replacement parts when needed, or we can manufacture custom parts by 3D printing components in-house to minimise the carbon footprint of the repair. We have recently invested in a CNC machine which allows us to manufacture replacement desk and table tops and furniture panels when needed. We also have state-of-the-art edging technology to refresh your MFC desktops, tables and storage.

Where possible, we will restore and repair furniture at your premises to minimise disruption to your organisation. Alternatively, we operate a prompt collection and delivery service. If we need to take the chair off the premises for repair, we can also provide loan chairs to keep your team operating while we restore your furniture.

We resell.

If your furniture is beyond restoration or you’re in the market for great furniture at an excellent value, you can choose preloved furniture with Saxen’s RefurbHub. We continuously replenish a wide range of high-quality items that have been meticulously restored, from task seating to upholstered pods. Not only does this save you money, but you’re also helping to keep perfectly good furniture out of landfill. Our refurbished furniture showroom in Newmilns, Ayrshire can be visited by appointment, and we will be launching a new website catalogue soon.

The impact of RefurbHub.

The benefits of using RefurbHub go beyond the initial advantage of good-value furniture. This initiative promotes a circular economy while giving a new lease of life and style to dated or broken items. It will reduce your organisation’s carbon footprint since you divert furniture from landfills.

Using RefurbHub also reduces the demand for new materials, decreasing harmful deforestation. It also uses less energy than manufacturing new furniture, which is fantastic for our beautiful planet.

Restoring existing and buying preloved furniture is the way forward – a new way of thinking about the old. Get in touch for more details or visit our RefurbHub page .

Celebrating National Tree Week

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 20:35:59 GMT

National Tree Week brings together the conservation sector, volunteers, and tree-lovers to mark the start of the annual tree planting season . The Saxen team is playing its part with a range of events, workshops, presentations, tours, and an oak planting initiative, all rooted in sustainability .

Saxen has a rich history in partnering with some of the most forward-thinking furniture and accessory manufacturers in the UK and Europe. As part of our Branching Out event this week, we are delighted to welcome to our showroom...

Agua Fabrics who will be presenting on sustainable upholstery manufacturing;
Friends of Wilson who will be giving a talk on how acoustics create calm and harmony;
Sedus , who will present 'Design to Connect – The Rendezvous Office'; and
GP Plantscape , who will treat us to a workshop on biophilics enhancing wellbeing.

National Tree Week resonates with Saxen's environmental philosophy and Net Zero journey. We are thrilled to take part.

Shirley Wallace – Saxen MD

Give it a grow.

As part of our National Tree Week celebrations, we have introduced our give it a grow initiative. This week, every visitor to our showroom will receive a biodegradable tube containing a compost disk and a germinated acorn ready for planting.

Oak forests support more life forms than any other native forest in the UK. They play a pivotal role in supporting wildlife, hosting hundreds of insect species and supplying many birds with an important food source. In autumn, mammals such as squirrels, badgers, and deer feed on acorns. We're encouraging our guests to nurture their sapling and eventually plant an oak tree to bring numerous environmental and aesthetic benefits.

Concept coasters.

We have designed and manufactured these tree-themed coasters to complement the Saxen ‘give it a grow’ oak sapling that we are giving away at our Branching Out event. Fifteen unique designs celebrate National Tree Week and showcase our design team's creativity and our RefurbHub crew's ingenuity.

The prototype coasters are designed for use on your desk, with branch-shaped channels that catch any condensation from your glass or water bottle, which can then be used to water your oak sapling – not a single drop of precious water is wasted.

We manufactured the coasters in our RefurbHub using the 3D printers we use to sustainably print replacement components when repairing damaged furniture for reuse. The filament is environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and made from biomaterials and corn grain extraction. Even its protective feet are made from sustainable cork. Every part of the concept is rooted in sustainability.

Against the grain.

For Saxen, sustainability is a commitment that extends beyond one week of the year. Our initiatives during National Tree Week are designed to align seamlessly with our ongoing sustainability efforts throughout the year. To follow are some examples.

Double whammy

We help reduce the environmental impact of our brand by using sustainable digital wooden business cards instead of printing thousands each year. Even better – for every bamboo business card we buy, a tree is planted. Win-win!

S ee the wood for the trees.

Saxen Grove, near Loch Ness in the Highlands of Scotland, hosts our little bit of forest, where we offset our business miles against trees planted.

Each tree we plant will help rebuild the Caledonian Forest, which once covered over 1.5 million hectares of the Scottish Highlands. This is part of our commitment to giving back to nature and mitigating the environmental impact of our day-to-day operations.

Our saplings are planted alongside other young, native trees, transforming open hillsides into healthy young woodland rich in wildlife such as red squirrel, black grouse, capercaillie, wood ants, and twinflowers. The rich diversity of wildlife habitats includes ancient Caledonian pinewoods and superb birch and juniper woodlands. With mires, wetlands, and wildflower meadows, it is a haven for wildlife.

Rooted in sustainability.

All our wood-based products are sourced from FSC forests or use innovative recycled materials. Saxen actively seeks out manufacturers who employ bold new approaches to sustainable furniture design and a commitment to low-carbon, zero-waste production.

We love exciting manufacturers like Isomi, who design for circularity. Their Tejo range is made by recycling cork waste from the production of wine stoppers. This recycled, recyclable and renewable seating system helps preserve Portugal’s cork forests and marks a major step towards the circular economy.

For more information on Saxen's commitment to net zero and the circular economy , please check out our sustainability pages and get in touch.

Constructionline Gold Accreditation renewed

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 12:28:39 GMT

As part of Saxen's continued commitment to quality and safety, we are pleased to announce that we have successfully renewed our Constructionline Gold membership and achieved Social Value certification.

In the competitive field of commercial interiors, trust and credibility is of utmost importance. Our clients want to know that we adhere to the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and ethical conduct. We demonstrate our commitment to these standards through recognised certifications, such as Constructionline accreditation.

The successful renewal of our Constructionline Gold Member Certification underscores our dedication to excellence and complements our portfolio of existing health and safety accreditations.

Saxen has been:

assessed on areas such as; environmental management, quality management, equalities and diversity. It ensures we abide by legislation in areas such as modern slavery, anti-bribery and corruption and shows we have been assessed and adhere to these standards to potential buyers.

assessed for and awarded, Acclaim SSIP accreditation and have SafeContractor certification in place, demonstrating to buyers we comply with health & safety legislation.

What is Constructionline Gold Member Certification?

Achieving Constructionline Gold Member Certification is challenging. It involves a comprehensive evaluation of financial health, legal compliance, health and safety commitment, and a proven track record of successful projects. This assessment guarantees that only top-tier companies earn Gold Member status.

> Enhanced credibility and trust

> Emphasis on Health & Safety

Making social value a priority within Saxen.

Our customers also are increasingly seeking to collaborate with businesses that can complement and support their own social value strategies. By achieving the Constructionline Social Value award, Saxen have demonstrated that we are committed to providing social value when bidding for contracts. Corporate social responsibility comprises a broad range of initiatives, from taking on apprenticeships to employing a diverse workforce.

Saxen provide social value by:

Putting robust Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) processes in place
Taking steps to avoid the risk of slavery and human trafficking throughout our supply chain
Providing equal opportunities for minority groups
Having good working conditions
Supporting our workers’ mental wellbeing
Engaging with local communities
Working to improve our organisation’s sustainability
Holding accreditations for schemes like Disability Confident and Real Living Wage.

Diversity and inclusivity in the workspace

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 14:56:46 GMT

Creating an inclusive workspace allows people of all abilities, races, genders, ages, and cultures to thrive. Human-centric workplace design can include accessible toilets, large-print instructions, prayer rooms, ergonomic tools, and more. Not only will this improve your brand's reputation, but it can also reduce employee stress, workplace accidents, and absenteeism.

Saxen specialise in creating bespoke spaces that promote productivity and help employees, staff, or students prosper. Our holistic approach blends aesthetics with functionality to create stylish and respectful spaces with intuitive products and technology.

The need for inclusivity in the workspace is an urgent matter. Embracing diversity and inclusive workspace design breaks barriers, inviting more people to participate in existing spaces.

Inclusive teams make smarter business decisions 87 per cent of the time with half the number of meetings.

Decisions made by a diverse team of people yield better results by 60 per cent ⁽¹⁾ . Inclusive teams make smarter business decisions 87 per cent of the time with half the number of meetings. We can't complain about that.

Diversity and inclusivity are crucial for achieving positive results, but more importantly, they foster a collaborative workspace where all employees feel a sense of belonging. Inclusive and diverse workplaces create a company culture where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed. An inclusive culture enables individuals to feel comfortable and confident in their identity, allowing them to work in the best way for them. This, in turn, enhances their productivity, which adds value to the company.

Businesses have a social and ethical responsibility to prioritise workplace design to encourage diversity. Inclusive design is imperative for cultivating a diverse team of people who think differently and offer fresh perspectives. A cosmopolitan workforce helps drive innovative change and development. When introducing an inclusive design to your existing space, an excellent starting point is asking your staff: "What do you need? What will help you?"

Many people spend the majority of their waking time at work. Developing an inviting and comfortable office is common sense. It's about making office spaces work for all people, regardless of their ability, gender identity, or age, to thrive.

“DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) is not just a checkbox; it’s the key to staying relevant in a world with increasingly diverse demographics.”

Alesya Karnaukhova , CEO of ZikZak Architects ⁽²⁾

“I need a place to take a break and different types of chairs for throughout the day,”

Dr Alice Ashcroft , Gender Diversity and Technology Consultant and Researcher

Identifying key components of inclusive workplace design.

When people aren't included in the working environment, they can quickly become stressed. Stress is the cause of up to 80 per cent of workplace accidents ⁽³⁾ . Actualising inclusive environments encourages employees to become more productive and satisfied in their space. There are many components for creating spaces that honour a diverse workforce, including physical accessibility, flexible working arrangements, and more.

Physical accessibility.

When we think of a workplace design for inclusivity, one of the first things that comes to mind is planning spaces for people with disabilities, including mobility or visual impairment. This looks like:

Wide hallways and entryways allow wheelchair users to navigate the building.
Unrestricted access to common areas, such as lounges and kitchens.
Accessible toilets.
Lifts for people who use mobility devices.
Ramps as well as stairs.
Access to light switches and door handles.
Signage should be at a reasonable height for a wheelchair user.
Desks and tables that accommodate people with physical disabilities.
A mixture of seating types.
Adjustable lighting and contrasting.
Tactile features and signage.
Non-slip flooring.
Ergonomic accessories, such as adjustable monitor arms.

Another important aspect to consider during the design process is good air quality. This is required by law, but it is worth noting that good air quality is vital to workers' physical and mental health. In particular, people with physical disabilities should be able to easily open and close windows and doors to promote air circulation when needed.

“I need a place to take a break and different types of chairs for throughout the day,” says Dr Alice Ashcroft, Gender Diversity and Technology Consultant and Researcher from Digital Heard , emphasising the importance of a traditional office setup as well as sofas for breaks.

Cultural sensitivity.

Respecting different cultures is essential for retaining employees in a diverse workplace. Creating a safe and happy environment for people of various cultures should not be difficult. There are small gestures you can make to include these team members, including but not limited to:

Creating flexible spaces with both collaborative areas and private areas.
Incorporating various cultural elements into the decor.
Providing signage and documents in multiple languages.
Allowing employees to take time off for religious holidays.
Providing quiet rooms or prayer spaces for employees to observe religious practices.

Establishing spaces for cultural expression can remove stigmas, promote team building, and foster a more comfortable and successful work environment.

Gender-inclusive facilities.

Gender-diverse teams make better business decisions 73 per cent of the time. It's important, as well as strategic, to have a gender-diverse group of people in your team. However, to make them feel safe and comfortable, workplace design is critical. Below are some ways you can create an inclusive space for all genders:

Include gender-neutral restrooms to ensure people of all gender identities feel comfortable accessing the bathroom.
Ensure the communal spaces feel inclusive and welcoming to all gender identities, whether that's through decor or signage.
If your space includes changing areas, ensure they are inclusive by providing private spaces for those who prefer it.
Offer privacy and personal space via partitions, curtains, or dividers so people can relax or take a break without feeling too exposed.
Have hygiene bins in all bathrooms so people can dispose of sanitary products.
Upskill managers so they can sensitively communicate with their team members about menopause. Consider support networks and flexible working arrangements.
Offer welfare facilities with sanitary products.
Be flexible with uniforms and dress codes.

One of the most important things you can do to include diverse genders in the workspace is to ask for feedback and input. Make opportunities for open dialogue and collaboration to improve the workplace environment for all. At Saxen, we have learned the importance of involving staff early to discuss individual requirements, proposing furniture that promotes collaborative working, and ensuring the space is flexible and adaptable for various individuals. It’s also important that the spaces are easy to reconfigure for the changing needs of users over time to ensure the furniture can be used for as long as possible.

Technology integration.

Technology plays an integral role in most workplaces, though it's not always easily accessible to everyone, especially those who are neurodivergent, are visually impaired, or suffer from migraines. However, there are ways to orchestrate your office space so everybody feels included in the available technology.

Adjustable desks and workstations accommodate different ergonomic needs; use height-adjustable desks or adjustable monitor arms.
Install accessible power outlets and charging stations throughout the office space so everyone can easily reach them.
Implement wireless connectivity throughout the office to allow all employees to connect, regardless of their device.
Design the office layout to accommodate accessible IT infrastructure, including network cabling, server rooms and data centres.
Incorporate universal design principles into technology integration, including intuitive interfaces, custom settings, and compatibility with assistive technologies.
Implement collaborative technology solutions like video conferencing systems, interactive whiteboards, and digital collaboration tools. Ensure easy-to-use tools that support remote collaboration for distributed teams.
Install audio-visual equipment such as projectors, screens and speakers that are accessible to all employees.
Offer ergonomic accessories to support employee comfort and productivity.

It's essential to regularly maintain and update all the tools you use for the best performance and usability. Additionally, you can consider innovative technologies and apps that allow your staff to adjust the environment to their individual needs, such as lighting, heating, and screen glare. Technology can easily isolate people when it's not accessible to everyone. However, with these changes, each individual can find the right solution for their needs.

Strategies for implementing inclusive design practices.

At Saxen , our goal is to assist you in implementing inclusive design practices. We understand that every individual is unique and has different requirements. Therefore, we will work closely with you to understand your needs and make your vision a reality. One such way we do that is by offering flexible workspace options to suit people’s needs at any point of the day; this can include height-adjustable desks, variable seating options, and private spaces.

Before we get to that stage, we recommend conducting thorough research to determine precisely what you need to benefit and include your entire team. This could involve:

Conducting diversity assessments and audits of current workplace environments.
Establishing diversity and inclusion committees or task forces.
Collaborating with employees from various backgrounds to gather input and feedback.
Training and education programmes to raise awareness and promote understanding of diversity issues.
Partnering with external organisations and consultants specialising in diversity and inclusion.

Inclusive design revolves around putting individuals at the heart of the proces s. These strategies ensure that you are designing a space based on real feedback rather than generic trends.

“The thing with sensory issues is that, in reality, there’s often only so much the business itself can do and still function as a business, and every autistic person is different. Listen to your staff and allow them to make the changes they need to make in order to function at their best,” says Angie Harms , a neurodivergent copywriter from Glasgow.

Products for inclusive workplace design.

Functional and quality products are essential when designing the workplace for inclusivity and diversity. That's where Saxen comes in. We supply a wide range of furnishings that support individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, and those who require flexible working arrangements and versatile technology set-ups.

Whatever you need, give us a call and we will support you to create an inclusive workspace. In the meantime, explore some of our pioneering and forward-thinking products.

Oasis

by Slalom

One of the main challenges that neurodivergent people face in the workplace is distractions. More specifically: noise. Noise makes it difficult to focus at work, leading to stress and sensory overload.

Oasis by Slalom is an award-winning, sculptural acoustic product that offers a space of refuge and peace, even in open-planned spaces. Made from a metal frame and recycled P.E.T. felt, it's a sustainable product that brings a little nature into the workspace.

Oasis can be customised to suit a variety of needs through the integration of add-ons such as tables and charging units for electronic devices.

FourPeople Work Booths

by Ocee & Four

FourPeople modular furniture allows versatility. With a wide range of configurations, the system supports a variety of working styles and allows individuals to garner some peace or participate in collaborative work.

Study and work booths allow each team member or student to go at their own pace in their own way, boosting productivity.

Angie Harms emphasises th e importance of spaces where people can take breaks, saying, “Quiet spaces? Yes, and being allowed to retreat and take a break to decompress if you’re becoming overstimulated.” FourPeople Modules are perfect for that.

Freedom

by Connection

Accessible technology is crucial when designing an inclusive workspace.

Freedom by Connection is a portable multi-purpose media wall that is excellent for meetings, presentations, and brainstorming sessions. Freedom gives workers a chance to be flexible and harness mobility.

The front of the unit has a TV bracket, and the back serves as a dry-erase board. Mounted on castors, Freedom is easy to manoeuvre around the workplace, supporting agile working, collaboration and inclusivity.

Vika
by Abstracta

Sensory overload is a top distraction for neurodivergent people.

Cleverly designed acoustic lighting, such as the Vika by Abstracta, can make a huge difference.

Designed to generate a peaceful atmosphere, it delivers pleasant lighting while managing and absorbing low and high-frequency noise. It instils a cosy warmth in larger areas and is perfect for busy places, such as meeting rooms, libraries, and breakout areas.

Muse
by Connection

Incorporating acoustic seating into your office design is a clever and stylish way to enhance inclusivity.

The Muse range from Connection is a privacy booth, allowing workers to make a much-needed escape, even in open-planned spaces.

The high-back, enclosed design of these chairs reduces peripheral vision and traps external noise to establish a distraction-free zone. With a metal or oak leg frame and a wealth of upholstered finishes, this statement seat brings seclusion and beautiful comfort.

Implementing an open-planned office space?

Allow employees to use noise-cancelling headphones, as this allows them to find refuge in busy offices, which is often necessary for people who are easily distracted.

X-Change

by Quadrifoglio

X-change vocal booths are another solution for giving people a quiet, private space when needed.

Great for independent work or meetings away from the noise of the office, the cabins can be customised depending on your needs. Quadrifoglio also offers this as a single-station option with translucent windows to provide additional privacy.

The vocal booths include sound-absorbing walls, ventilation systems, and LED lights. Saxen can also ensure yours are fitted with power and data modules, shelves, whiteboards, and support surfaces to suit your company culture.

Advance

by Lavoro

Height-adjustable desks with electric motors are crucial when prioritising an inclusive workplace design.

The low voltage Advance desk by Lavoro is a sturdy desk that adjusts from 625 to 1285 mm tall and comes with tops ranging from 1200 to 1800 mm wide. This is the perfect desk for any office, available in over 500 frame colours and equipped with quiet dual motors, anti-collision technology, and a 5-year warranty. A range of cable management options completes the offering.

Ergohuman Elite office chair
by Comfort Seating

An ergonomic office chair is essential for any workspace, especially when ensuring you have an inclusive environment.

The Ergohuman Elite by Comfort Seating is an advanced performance task chair that is fully ergonomic with over a dozen adjustable settings. With adjustable seat height, seat depth, back height, and 5D armrests, and guaranteed for ten years for users up to 23.5 stone in weight, the chair is ideal for a diverse range of body types.

Add an optional headrest, legrest and coat hanger for exceptional comfort and support.

“For designers, it's very important to integrate inclusivity into earlier phases of the design process. If they save it for the end, they may end up retrofitting a fundamentally inaccessible design.”

David Fusilier , Associate Principal Product Designer ⁽⁴⁾

To get the best out of your workspace, inclusive design must be prioritised at the start of the design process. A strategic approach should involve careful planning, ideally with the direct involvement of all stakeholders. Saxen can help you find the best solutions for cultivating an inclusive design for a collaborative workspace.

The nature of diversity and inclusion in the workspace is ever-evolving, and we are always learning. It's crucial that you maintain and update your design choices to ensure they continue to serve everyone in the office. The top priority is that people feel happy, secure, and comfortable.

To incorporate inclusive furniture and design practices, contact Saxen , Scotland's commercial furniture experts. We can offer you free space planning, move management, recycling of your old furniture, and, of course, a range of functional products.

Product showcase: portable power from anywhere

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:52:28 GMT

Channelling power to your team has never been this easy. With the QIKPAC CARRY, all-day power from anywhere is yours. Cordless and compact but fuelled with intense performance, prepare for a full day of flexible power.

The QIKPAC CARRY is part of the OE Electrics ANIMATE range: a family of parts designed for creating more agile workplaces. The portable battery packs can be used standalone or integrated into furniture, meaning you can take them wherever you go. Whether you’re working from a meeting table, an individual booth, or even outside (if the weather is dry), plug into focus mode with QIKPAC CARRY.

Pound-for-pound, it’s the highest-capacity battery pack available and the most versatile. With reversible USB ports, so you can always connect your cable the right way, black or white colour options, and a completely cordless design, the unit delivers power when and where you need it most.

By introducing QIKPAC to furniture, you can create untethered working environments with the ability to power anywhere.

QIKPAC: how it works

When fully charged, the high-power unit delivers super-fast charging for a range of gadgets, including tablets, laptops, sit-stand desks, and even legacy devices. Measuring 232 x 62 x 91 mm and weighing 1.6 kilos, it’s lightweight and portable. You can easily click the unit into place on a piece of furniture or use it as a standalone unit.

From one charge cycle, you’ll be able to power up a range of devices for varying lengths of time:

In other words, one charge cycle can power up to 4 laptops, 10 tablets, or 20 mobile phones. Using Lithium Ion battery technology, charge your phone from 0 to 50% in only 30 minutes.

To estimate how many units you would need for your business, plug your details into OE’s battery calculator .

Contact us to learn more about the QikPac Carry and how it can amplify your space. Saxen can take care of all your office furniture needs, including space planning, furniture installation, move management, design and furniture recycling.

Product showcase: room within a room

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:39:04 GMT

At Saxen, we value versatility and understand how necessary it is to create a productive workspace. That’s why we love the Hyde modular pod system.

Hyde is a multi-configurable booth which provides a comfortable zone for quiet working, collaborative projects, and meetings. Offering bespoke arrangements, you can alter the system to meet your demands as your business changes and grows.

Naturally sound absorbent and fitted with spotlights, it’s a practical hideaway.

Hyde: practical, customisable, and stylish

In busy offices, defined areas are important to step away from noise and distraction. Hyde Booth is available in three depth options, suitable for two seats, four seats, or six seats. With options for an open- or glass-fronted enclosure, it’s the perfect space for individual working, phone calls, meetings, or collaborative sessions.

Booths can be fitted with an integral table and soft meeting modules or supplied empty to use with free-standing furniture. Built with sturdy wooden panels upholstered with foam and fabric, Hyde booths have excellent sound-absorbing properties while looking daringly trendy with the options of fabric, vinyl, and leather upholstery, including two-tone options.

Contact us to learn more about the Hyde range and envision it in your space. Saxen can take care of all your office furniture needs, including space planning, furniture installation, move management, design and furniture recycling.

Product showcase: furniture with a cork foundation

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 13:19:00 GMT

The Tejo range provides sustainable and eco-friendly furniture options for your space. Swapping out the use of plywood, foam, and polyester fabrics – which are often used in furniture ranges – and instead utilising the eco-friendly artistry of cork, natural latex, wool, flax, and hemp ensures that, in every way possible, Tejo furniture is crafted from the ground up.

Designed to be flexible, circular, and outrageously stylish, Tejo is the new, innovative collection from Isomi. Consisting of a seating system and a table range, Tejo is engineered to suit any space, including private and communal areas.

Tejo represents a bold new approach to sustainable furniture design and a commitment to low-carbon, zero-waste production.

Tejo: an innovation in modular soft seating

The Tejo seating range can be configured to suit your organisation's needs. It offers unlimited options, allowing it to be arranged to suit any kind of space. Whether your aim is to make a bold statement or blend it into an existing environment, the Tejo seating range is fully customisable.

Available in three depth options, with three main elements – including a bench, sofa with a back, and a back-to-back sofa – a range of colour options, with many optional extras, including integrated power and screen dividers, Tejo is adaptable to your liking. It’s also available fully upholstered, or you can choose to have the unique cork base exposed.

There’s a reason this is an award-winning seating system: designed for circularity, it’s recycled, recyclable, renewable, and, not to mention striking, on account of its soft contours and tactile surfaces.

The Tejo seating system is also designed for versatility. It can be disassembled, configured, and reconfigured in countless ways, offering you the flexibility to experiment with different layouts depending on current trends, changes in the business, or moves to a new space.

Tejo table: utilising the quirkiness of cork

The Tejo collection also includes a unique table constructed entirely from recycled cork waste from wine stoppers. The cork is harvested from trees grown in responsibly managed forests in Alentejo, Portugal. It can be harvested from cork trees every nine years without damaging the tree, ensuring it is one of the quickest-regenerating natural materials.

With that in mind, Isomi goes even further by using waste from wine stoppers’ manufacturing process; they aren’t even harvesting the cork directly. Instead, blocks of recycled cork are cut to size and shaped by hand. Any waste from the off-cuts or dust returns to the start of the process and is remade into cork blocks. It’s a truly zero-waste production cycle.

Design-wise, the Tejo tables feature a beautiful cork base in a distinctive shape with a tinted glass top – available in bronze or grey – which seamlessly integrates with the foundation. Together, these two elements create a minimalistic piece that is available at varying heights, depending on your requirements.

Isomi’s core philosophy is to work with materials in their most natural state to create timeless designs... that’s a main component of sustainability. How long will something last?

Sustainability is at the core of Tejo

The Tejo range is timeless, elegant, and durable, making it sustainable in more ways than one. The Isomi brand takes many steps to ensure all its products give back to the environment while revitalising an interior space.

All timber products by Isomi carry an FSC certification; all materials are sustainably and legally sourced. All products are high-quality and built to withstand the test of time. The products arrive in eco-friendly packaging with eco tape, recyclable honeycomb, and pallets. Isomi also has its own reuse scheme in which customers are encouraged to return unused products to be repurposed. Every product under this scheme is recycled or repurposed with samples cut in-house using material off-cuts by in-house CAD engineers trained at the highest level. Regarding company culture, Isomi utilises digital marketing products rather than paper and facilitates electric fleets with charging points equipped at offices.

British design, supplied by Saxen

Saxen, Scotland’s commercial interior specialists , is pleased to supply Isomi furniture, including the Tejo range. Isomi designs a collection of award-winning furniture, all of which offers solutions for reception areas, public spaces, and offices. Their modular furniture systems simplify the process of choosing pieces for commercial spaces, making it easy to blend into an interior, no matter the size and layout of a building.

Tejo wins Sustainability Award at Best of NeoCon 2024

Tejo won the prestigious Sustainability Award at Best of NeoCon 2024 after being recognised for the range’s commitment to recycled, sustainable, and renewable elements.

‘We were looking to try and find materials that were as natural as possible. We’ve replaced the plywood frame with cork, and foam with natural latex. The fabric is natural wool and hemp.’

~ Paul Crofts, Tejo designer

Contact us to learn more about the Tejo range and envision it in your space. Saxen can take care of all your office furniture needs, including space planning, furniture installation, move management, design and furniture recycling.

Product showcase: from fleece to furniture

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 11:28:20 GMT

Woolly, wiry, and wildly sustainable: Saxen's latest manufacturing partner – Solidwool – introduces a fresh connection between furniture and nature. It’s 50 per cent wool and 50 per cent plant-based bio-resin, making it more sustainable than other resin-based materials.

Inspired by the Herdwick and Welsh Mountain breeds, Solidwool saw hope in a type of wool that would have otherwise been burned as waste. As one of the lowest-value wools in the UK, historically used for carpets, these upland sheep have gradually lost their worth. However, Solidwool saw this wool as a material with inherent possibilities. Following this train of thought, it soon became used in a beautiful end-product in the Hembury range that moors people to the original habitat.

This award-winning, Devon-based company aims to position Solidwool as the premier natural, environmentally friendly, and superior-quality wool composite material, and to be recognised as a sustainable substitute for petrochemical-based plastics and composites.

‘We wanted to create a beautiful natural material with a story that connects people to the land it has come from.’

~ Solidwool

The Herdwick breed: from hardy to head-turning

The Herdwick breed of sheep are plentiful, but there isn’t much demand for their coarse wool. While robust, it’s wiry, which diminishes its value in the carpet and clothing industry. However, these sheep are very hardy, with the stamina to roam high fells all year round, proving its bond to its surroundings. Located in the central and western Lake District, Herdwick sheep have evolved to become robust animals, surviving harsh winters, ensuring Solidwool can trust in their endurance.

Their wool serves as one-half of the innovative Solidwool material; it’s a natural and gorgeous fibre that, when bound with bio-resin, delivers a material true to the Herdwick fleece. Notice the dark grey hues with lighter guard hairs blending together to create a gorgeously rustic composite.

Welsh Mountain breed: unexcepted textures and tones

Welsh Mountain sheep are another hardy British breed. Occupying the Welsh hillside for centuries now, their kemp has a dense texture in shades of grey, white, and black, which creates a tranquil marble effect reminiscent of countryside character. Predominantly light-coloured with white kemp fibres, the bio-resin and the Welsh Mountain wool blend into an organic and natural finish that sits beautifully next to Solidwool’s other colours. Together, they create a colour palette connotative to the mountains where the sheep dwell, with nods to the moss and lichen, mountains and lakes.

Bringing value back to an ignored fibre

In 2013, Solidwool began with the vision of designing beautiful furniture with respect for the environment. Since then, they have been turning this unwanted and ignored fibre into functional pieces with honest simplicity and indefinite beauty, designed to be as relevant as long as the breed of sheep still exists.

Described as ‘furniture with soul’, Solidwool create chairs and tables for commercial and domestic environments that can be passed down through generations, not just as heirlooms but as practical pieces. As a result, this otherwise wasted by-product of the land has become the Hembury collection of chairs and side tables – furniture crafted with a conscience. Herdwick and Welsh Mountain sheep have a renewed purpose, with Solidwool sighting their value once again.

'When you see the material, it drawns you in. You can't help but want to touch it.'

~ Andy Gaurd, creative director of Solidwool

Think fibreglass, but with wool

Solidwool offers a unique sheet material for architects and designers looking to introduce organic textures and elements. Available in 600 x 1200 mm panels in 6 and 10 mm thicknesses, Solidwool is the ideal sustainable material for a variety of interior design applications, such as cladding and solid surfaces.

Solidwool can be milled, drilled, and cut using mechanical, laser and water jet. Sheets can be laminated onto other materials or bonded together to create thicker material. Solidwool can also be sanded, polished and laser etched. It can be finished and polished to a gentle sheen. A polyurethane or acrylic clear-coat can be added for a high gloss finish.

Sustainably harvested wool without compromising the planet

Solidwool panels and Hembury furniture range connects people back to the countryside in a charming yet sustainable way. Both breeds of sheep, whose fleeces are harvested, are UK native, which allows the animals and shepherds to remain in their natural landscape. By using hardy, traditional breeds, Solidwool supports British farms by honouring the craftsmanship as well as reducing the product’s carbon footprint.

The materials used don’t compete with food sources or displace food-based agriculture. While the product already has a low environmental impact, Solidwool looks for new ways to lower the impact even further.

Conscience, beauty and soul

Solidwool is made from 50 per cent wool and 50 per cent plant-based bio-resin. Traditional resins are made from 100 per cent petrochemicals with worrying toxicity levels and significant carbon footprints. However, bio-resin is made from 50 per cent plant-based renewable content sourced from waste streams of other industrial processes. The resin manufacturer claims a 33 per cent reduction in both greenhouse gas emissions and its carbon footprint compared to standard resins.

Additionally, the bio-resin is made with green chemistry, which removes dangerous toxins, making it safer to work with during manufacturing.

Hembury chair: made in Great Britian

Inspired by the 1950's Eames plastic side chair, Hembury's shell is made using Solidwool composite. Its legs are hand crafted by a wood turner in Somerset from sustainable UK-sourced ash, and the frame is constructed from black powder coated steel from Plymouth.

Made in the UK, supplied by Saxen

Saxen is the Scottish distributor for the multi award-winning Solidwool range.

This includes the Hembury chair and side table with FSC-certified ash legs, and stacking chairs with black or chrome-plated steel legs. The chair's shells and tabletops come in Solidwool Herwick and Welsh Mountain organic finishes and the ash legs can be oiled or scorched black.

In addition, the new Solidwood Colour range features a natural palette blending Welsh Mountain wool with seven soothing tones: hazel, cobalt, ochre, tan, forest, stone, and ink.

‘The Hembury is a unique chair which celebrates and showcases the possibilities of a wool composite.’

~ Andy Gaurd, creative director of Solidwool

Award-winning furniture

Solidwool continues to be recognised as one of the most innovative and exciting companies in the commercial interiors industry, standing out for its exceptional sustainable manufacturing and product design.

2024

Winner – Furniture product of the year – Mix Awards – Hembury Side Table Colours

2023

Winner – Innovation in Wool Award – Solidwool

2022

Winner – Best Sustainable Furniture – Living Etc awards

Winner – Furniture product of the year – Mixology North Awards – Hembury Chair

Product showcase: oak tables, benches, and desks

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 13:12:52 GMT

Introducing VWork by Modus Furniture – an all-timber desk, meeting table, and bench range with striking V-shaped joinery available in a natural or black finish.

Beautifully crafted from solid and veneered oak, VWork table is available in 2, 4, or 6-person configurations, with or without integrated power and data modules, with a cleverly hidden cable management channel to keep your workspace tidy.

It’s also available as a desk, a high desk for healthy working, and with a range of poseur height meeting tables and useful accessories.

‘Designing furniture is a process that is not about expressing my signature or my personality, it’s about caring for the people that are going to use it’

~ Simon Pengelly, designer of VWork

Made in the UK

Crafted from start to finish in Somerset, VWork is available in natural or black, finished in a waterbased, EU Ecolabel compliant lacquer.

Sustainability

VWork is crafted from FSC certified solid and veneered oak on MDF, cut using renewable energy in our Somerset factory and finished in an EU Ecolabel approved, low VOC emitting, water-based lacquer. VWork is available with FSC certification on request.

About the designer

Simon cut his teeth as a product designer at Conran Design Group, before progressing to the design team at Habitat. He now runs his own furniture design studio in London, and is widely recognised as one of the most important contributors to the British furniture industry over the last 25 years.

"I started making furniture in my father's workshop when I was eight, going on to win national competitions for cabinet making. The practical experience and an affinity with materials and processes, gained from an early age, are central to my design work and service. Understanding materials and manufacturing techniques is fundamental to my approach, combined with a passionate desire to create accessible production furniture with 'soul'."

~ Simon Pengelly

Contact Saxen to elevate your workspace with sustainable design and innovative solutions. Our comprehensive services, from innovative office furniture and move management, to expert space planning and refurbishment, will transform your office into a sustainable and stylish haven. Reach out for a consultation and take the first step toward a workspace that reflects your values.

Annie’s Café, Abertay Uni

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:27:37 GMT

Following the success of Saxen’s delivery of furniture packages to the new cyberQuarter facility at Abertay University, we were delighted to be invited to assist with upgrading works in the Annie Lamont Café.

The café was fitted out with bespoke and loose furniture in 2022; however, the client wished to enhance the space by introducing biophilic elements, retail space, and ensure a vibrant and inclusive hub for students, visitors, and staff.

The Journey.

Natural finishes were again employed to complement existing aesthetics.

Locally manufactured fitted elements included vending housings, seating areas with integrated planters, retail display showcases, and recycling facilities.
Accessories included built-in umbrella stands and printed upholstered cushions.
Our bespoke furniture was designed and manufactured in the central belt of Scotland in keeping with our constant strive to employ local companies – an integral feature of our carbon reduction plan .
Loose furniture was sourced from British manufacturers, with tables manufactured eight miles from Glasgow. All soft seating was upholstered in stain-repellent, anti-microbial fabrics in neutral tones.

All resulted in a welcoming, popular space at the centre of campus that looked fabulous on day one and, due to the finishes specified, will continue to do so.

Abertay cyberQuarter

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:07:48 GMT

cyberQuarter is a new £18 million cyber security and research and development centre located within the heart of Abertay University.

Saxen worked closely with Wellwood Leslie Architects, the main contractor and the client to assist with the specification, finishes, delivery, and installation of internal furniture packages.

The Project.

The furniture packages were designed to enhance all aims of the facility:

Increase technical problem solving for industry.
Increase industry-academia interaction and collaboration.
Increase access to cyber employment opportunities in the area.

The Journey.

Bespoke fitted and loose furniture solutions were specified to promote concentration and create lounge, breakout, and collaborative meeting pods and zones over four floors.

The Saxen team worked hard to ensure that the furniture selections procured were sustainable, hard-wearing, and would stand the test of time while still meeting the client’s budget and timescales.

On-site meetings were held to collaborate with stake holders and ensure potential challenges were overcome (such as power routing to work spaces within a concrete building and via exposed services prior to furniture selection process).

A full set of bespoke manufactured drawings was then produced for sign-off, alongside space plans for all floors. Furniture packages were then procured and installed within the project timescale.

The end result was a fantastic, inclusive space where all styles of work can be embraced.

Product showcase: Theo contract wooden furniture

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 11:51:14 GMT

Saxen is pleased to announce it is now a supplier of New Design Group, a UK-based manufacturer that boasts a carbon-neutral factory.

The Theo collection is ideal for more than just office environments.

New Design Group strive to create stunning furniture that supports human interaction, often made by award-winning designer. this incudes the Theo collection, a furniture family designed by Simon Pengelly.

The Theo collection was first drafted in 2009 as a set of wooden stacking chairs for churches. These chairs were meant to be versatile enough to support the various activities that take place throughout the week in churches and enable easy rearrangement of the space. Now, the Theo collection includes chairs of two different heights, a stool, a high-back sofa, a space divider, adjustable tables, benches, a media screen, and much more.

The Theo collection suits the modern office, but it works for many other spaces, including, of course, churches, but also home offices, university spaces, and waiting areas.

Theo height adjustable booth.

The height-adjustable booth makes quite the impression. Available individually or in multiples to create a fixed row, these contribute to a vibrant study space, office, or university library. Users can operate the booth electronically, adjusting the height from 700 to 1200 mm to accommodate standing, sitting, or using a stool.

Theo worktable.

Theo Worktable is designed to create a collaborative environment for teams, especially in open-planned spaces. The table, crafted from 99 per cent wood, has optional desk screens, allowing colleagues to switch between independent working and team meetings. Available in a range of modern finishes, the worktable will seamlessly blend into all kinds of offices, whether the space is more modern, experiments with energetic colours, or honours muted tones.

Theo credenza.

Need storage? The retro design of the Theo wooden credenza provides much-needed storage while bringing timeless style into any room. Available in two lengths, you can configure this credenza to suit your needs. Designed for storing magazines, books, and handsets, while offering a place to display decor, the Theo Credenza makes a statement anywhere from a professional office to your lounge at home.

Theo chair.

Meet the chair where it all began. The light but stackable Theo chair is the solution to many problems. At the end of an event, these chairs are easy to tuck away, with the ability to create stacks of 30 chairs at once. You can also wheel the stack of 30 on a chair trolley for easy transportation. The Theo chair is 98 per cent wood and specially designed to work practically alongside all other Theo products, including the worktable, booth, and height-adjustable table.

If you would like to see the Theo collection or any other New Design Group products in your space, Saxen offers a range of beautiful solutions to transform your working environment. Contact us for free space planning , request a catalogue, or get a free quote. We look forward to hearing from you.

British Airways

Fri, 24 May 2024 09:06:26 GMT

British Airways, one of the world’s leading global premium airlines operating out of Glasgow Airport, were seeking to enhance the working environment for its staff.

British Airways commissioned a renovation project through Mitie Facilities Management for its staff lounge situated within Glasgow Airport. The aim was to create a modern, comfortable, and functional space that promotes productivity and well-being for its employees.

The Brief.

The project encompassed a comprehensive overhaul of the British Airways staff lounge, including:

Internal Decoration.

Revamping the walls with a fresh coat of paint and decorative accents to align with the airline’s corporate branding and create a vibrant atmosphere conducive to work and relaxation.

Flooring.
Upgrading the flooring with a combination of carpet tiles and vinyl flooring to enhance durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance in high-traffic areas.

Lighting.
Installing energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures strategically to optimise illumination levels, minimise glare, and create a welcoming ambiance throughout the lounge.

Blinds.
Fitting custom blinds to control natural light and ensure privacy, offering staff members the flexibility to adjust lighting conditions according to their preferences and task requirements.

Kitchen.
Installing a stylish and practical splashback in the lounge’s kitchen area to protect the walls from splashes and stains while adding a decorative element that complements the overall design scheme.

Furniture Removal and Recycling.
Responsibly disposing of the existing furniture and fixtures, adhering to sustainable practices by recycling materials wherever possible to minimise environmental impact.

New Furniture Installation.
Procuring and installing breakout furniture, including mixed height seating areas, grid storage system, privacy booths and a pool table with acoustic hanging panels, all designed to optimise comfort, functionality, and space utilisation.

The Journey.

The project commenced with a detailed assessment of the lounge space and collaborative consultations with British Airways stakeholders to understand their specific requirements, preferences, and budgetary considerations. A comprehensive project plan was developed, outlining timelines, resource allocation, and quality assurance protocols.

Skilled craftsmen and technicians were deployed to execute the renovation works systematically, adhering to industry standards and safety regulations. The installation of new flooring involved meticulous measurements, preparation of subfloors, and precise fitting of carpet tiles and vinyl flooring to ensure a seamless finish.

Experienced decorators applied premium quality paints and finishes to the walls, incorporating brand colours and design motifs to create a cohesive aesthetic that reflects British Airways’ corporate identity.

The lighting specialists orchestrated the installation of LED fixtures, optimising placement and intensity levels to achieve uniform illumination and energy efficiency, while the blinds and splashback were custom-fitted to the lounge’s dimensions and design specifications.

Upon completion of the renovation works, the old furniture and fixtures were responsibly dismantled, removed, and transported for recycling or disposal in accordance with environmental guidelines.

The installation of new furniture was meticulously coordinated to minimise disruption to ongoing operations, with the team ensuring precise assembly, placement, and alignment of each piece to maximise functionality and comfort for British Airways staff.

Completion.

The revitalised British Airways staff lounge at Glasgow Airport now exudes a contemporary ambiance that combines style with functionality, offering employees a rejuvenated workspace conducive to productivity, collaboration, and relaxation.

The integration of modern interior elements, from refreshed wall finishes to upgraded flooring and lighting solutions, has transformed the lounge into a dynamic and inviting environment that aligns with British Airways’ brand ethos and enhances the overall employee experience.

By investing in sustainable practices and ergonomic furniture solutions, British Airways has not only elevated the aesthetic appeal and functionality of its staff lounge but also demonstrated its commitment to environmental stewardship and employee well-being.

The successful completion of the renovation project underscores British Airways’ dedication to providing its staff with best-in-class amenities and workspaces that foster creativity, engagement, and satisfaction in the fast-paced aviation industry.

Strategic planning and collaboration are essential for executing complex renovation projects within strict timelines and budgetary constraints. Incorporating sustainable practices, such as furniture recycling and energy-efficient lighting, aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and enhances brand reputation. Prioritising employee comfort and well-being through a variety of zones and thoughtful design choices contributes to a positive work culture and higher productivity levels.

Selecting environmentally friendly materials

Mon, 20 May 2024 19:25:35 GMT

Saxen has a company-wide objective of achieving Net Zero by 2050. One of the ways we're aiming to achieve this is by exclusively sourcing from manufacturers that use sustainable furniture materials. Beyond aesthetics, furniture should also be durable, circular, and safe.

Saxen supply furniture made from a range of high-quality natural resources. Not only does this include the usual - bamboo, metal, wood - but you'll also find furniture made from more innovative materials - recycled polyester, hemp, and glass. Creating an eco workspace is one way to reconnect with nature. We invite you to explore the essence of nature in the workspace with our list of eco-friendly furniture materials.

What is sustainable furniture?

When looking for s ustainable office furniture , it's important to understand what sustainability is and what makes a piece 'green'.

Sustainability refers to the practice of using resources in a way that protects the Earth long-term ( source ). Unsustainability occurs when we consume resources more quickly than they can be replenished, eventually depleting the source. In the context of furniture, sustainability involves crafting pieces from renewable or recycled materials, putting the planet first.

This looks like:

> Using renewable materials.

> Using non-toxic materials.

> Avoid materials that can't be recycled.

> Using renewable energy sources.

> Long-lasting and versatile furniture.

> Up-cycled furniture.

> Organic furniture.

> Fair-trade furniture.

> Eco-friendly delivery and packaging.

Sustainable furniture materials for your office

In the current landscape, choosing sustainable furniture materials is easier than ever before. There are numerous innovative, original, and sustainable manufacturers who can transform your workspace with their products. Explore this curated list to garner inspiration for your workspace, featuring eco-friendly materials and manufacturers committed to sustainability.

Wood

Saxen guarantees the responsible sourcing of all its furniture, sourced exclusively from FSC-certified sustainable forests. These forests adhere to stringent environmental and economic standards, ensuring the preservation of biological diversity and providing local benefits. The wood is harvested sustainably, with no net loss of forest, allowing the trees to continue playing a crucial role in climate regulation.

Steel storage by Bisley, supplied by Saxen

Steel

Steel is considered one of the most sustainable materials due to its 100 per cent recyclability and 93 per cent recycled content ( source ). This circular material can repeatedly avoid landfills or incinerators, being reused time and time again in various forms, including desks, storage units, and lockers.

Aluminium

Like steel, aluminium can be infinitely recycled. Recycling aluminium also saves 95 per cent of energy compared to producing aluminium from raw materials ( source ). Aluminium can be used for many products, such as bases for ergonomic office chairs.

Hemp

Hemp is a versatile plant that contributes to many fresh and organic space ideas while also reducing companies' carbon footprints. In contrast to cotton, hemp cultivation demands less water and fewer pesticides, establishing it as an environmentally friendly alternative ( source ). Additionally, hemp grows quickly, and every part of the plant can be used in some way.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a beautiful and sustainable material that we feature often in our product lines. It requires less energy to grow, supplies biofuel, and produces more oxygen than other plants ( source ). It also traps high quantities of carbon dioxide, contributing to a cleaner environment and office space.

Recycled Polyester

Recycled polyester is excellent for upholstering soft seating and office chairs, using 79 per cent less carbon emissions than new polyester ( source ). Using recycled polyester for furniture materials also prevents the waste from entering waterways and landfills.

Recycled Textile Waste

Furniture made from recycled textile waste uses materials that would have otherwise been sent to landfill. This includes both industrial textile waste and post-consumer waste. Through a variety of recycling processes, such as mechanical recycling, the material can be reused for stunning furniture.

VerdEco (above) was released last autumn and is a first for Agua. A sustainable collection, VerdEco is made from 100% upcycled textile waste, using a mechanical recycling and re-spinning process that is completely water-free. In fact, upholster a three-seat sofa in VerEco and you’ll save an average of 250 litres of water. With melange yarns and a robust hopsack weave, there’s not an environment that VerdEco won’t flatter, and using this collection will boost your project’s environmental credentials, too.

Wool

Wool is a circular material that is renewable, 100% natural, and recyclable. It's also easy to maintain, clean, and repair, making it a durable choice. When choosing furniture that utilises greener manufacturing processes and lower greenhouse gases, consider wool.

Recycled PET

Recycled PET, typically from plastic bottles and food packaging, is a light and durable material. One of the most significant advantages of recycled PET products is their ability to be recycled almost infinitely, reducing greenhouse gas emissions for decades. Utilising recycled PET in furniture production provides an effective solution to the problem of plastic waste generation and excess waste.

Recycled Blue Wrap Hospital Waste

Saxen is continually exploring novel approaches to support the development of a circular economy. One of our select sustainable options is the Blue Finn from Vepa, which uses hospital waste to create a stackable chair. The final product is made from at least 85 per cent recycled blue wrap and is itself 100 per cent recyclable. Complete with a steel wire frame and available in four different sizes, this is a fresh furniture design.

Recycled Glass

Recycled glass is another material with an infinite life cycle. Endlessly recyclable, recycled glass cuts back on waste and saves natural resources. Saxen can utilise recycled glass for tabletops from Diamik, which sources and processes post-consumer glass to manufacture stunning surfaces of various designs.

Why choose sustainable office furniture?

Saxen provides sustainable commercial space planning services. You might wonder why we do it? Well, we have our reasons.

Firstly, we are on track to be carbon neutral by 2050. We owe it to the planet that serves us. Partnering with sustainable manufacturers allows us to focus on our net zero goals and help clients with theirs, too.

Secondly, sustainable furniture is much more energy efficient. Conserving energy is extremely important to contributing to a greener planet. Choosing sustainable furniture materials also aligns with health and well-being practices. Materials that emit less harmful substances, such as volatile organic compounds, ensure a healthier workspace for employees.

Another significant reason we choose eco-friendly furniture materials is because durability is important to us. Trends are fleeting, but timeless and long-lasting pieces are what's most important. High-quality materials and craftsmanship create furniture that lasts longer and reduces the need for frequent replacements. Not only does this save resources, but it contributes to long-term cost savings for businesses.

Making your workspace more eco-friendly

Think of the future and how you want it to look. With a forward focus, making sustainable decisions is of the essence. Here are a few simple ways you can make your office more eco-friendly and reduce your carbon footprint:

> Refurbish
When a piece of furniture is nearing the end of its life, give us a call. We have a new refurbishment facility where we can breathe new life into old products.

> Lighting
Switch to LED or energy-efficient lighting to reduce energy consumption and extend the lifespan of bulbs.

> Recycle
Implement waste reduction strategies, such as promoting recycling, reducing paper usage, and encouraging employees to minimise waste. Saxen can recycle your furniture for you, ensuring they don't end up in landfill.

> Green cleaning

Use eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning products to reduce the environmental impact of office cleaning.

> Water conservation

Implement water-saving measures, such as low-flow taps, toilets, and efficient irrigation systems.

> Carbon offsetting programmes

Invest in carbon offsetting programs to neutralise the carbon footprint associated with business operations.

Frequently asked questions

William Duncan

Thu, 02 May 2024 15:24:55 GMT

Saxen’s long-standing client, William Duncan, is among the most established chartered accountancy and business advisory firms in Ayrshire.

The company offers a broad spectrum of financial services to businesses of varying sizes, ranging from startups to corporate giants. Through a growing team and a commitment to promoting a productive and modern work culture, the firm recently acquired new premises to expand its workforce and facilitate future growth prospects.

The Project.

Our team collaborated closely with William Duncan’s Office Manager, Alan Burns, to understand their vision for the new premises and specific requirements for office furniture. Drawing upon our expertise in workspace design and furniture solutions, we proposed a tailored solution that addressed the client’s needs while maximising the available space. Creating a dynamic, open-plan environment, the office space fosters collaboration and productivity with co-working desks, ergonomic office chairs, and airy meeting spaces.

To accommodate the growing team at William Duncan , we incorporated a combination of modular bench desks with integrated cable management and desk end storage.

To promote a healthy and vibrant atmosphere in the workspace, we included planters in the office furniture design, adding a touch of greenery. Strategically placed throughout the office, the planters feature low-maintenance indoor plants that thrive in office environments. This measure not only elevates the visual appeal of the workspace but also contributes towards improving the air quality and well-being of employees.

Following the approval of the proposed furniture solution, our team worked alongside Alan Burns to coordinate the installation process. All furniture pieces were delivered and installed according to the agreed-upon timeline, minimising disruptions to the client’s business operations.

Completion.

The office furniture installation at William Duncan’s new premises was a resounding success, exceeding the client’s expectations in terms of functionality, aesthetics, and quality. The modular bench desks, versatile storage solutions, and integrated planters transformed the workspace into a modern, inviting environment that fosters employee engagement and productivity while reflecting the company’s brand values.

Alan Burns commended Saxen for listening to their needs while offering insightful solutions that enhanced the overall design and functionality of the workspace: "We couldn’t be happier with the results and look forward to continuing our partnership with Saxen for future projects."

Saxen are proud to have played a role in the success of William Duncan and look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.

Scotbeef

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:52:42 GMT

Saxen had the pleasure of collaborating with Scotbeef in East Kilbride, a company rooted in Scottish heritage since its establishment in 1888.

Scotbeef sought support for their newly revamped cafeteria, a project in partnership with WNP Architects. They turned to Saxen to curate furniture selections and layout solutions aimed at crafting a welcoming, contemporary space. The goal was to offer diverse settings for their valued employees, catering to various needs—from fully subsidised meals to casual snacks and coffee breaks. Additionally, they required a versatile layout that could transform the space into a collaborative area for the operational team when the cafeteria wasn’t in use.

The proposed solutions included a diverse range of dining options and soft furnishings, ensuring flexibility for one-on-one meetings and private conversations. Implementing Autex acoustic ceiling-hung screens facilitated zoning, while the incorporation of soft seating provided discreet spaces for individual or small group gatherings.

The resulting ambiance boasts a serene colour scheme and contemporary, easy-to-maintain finishes, culminating in a space to which we're proud to have contributed.

Product showcase: Alea iTube

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:17:04 GMT

Saxen is proud to announce it is now a supplier of the Italian-manufactured Alea office range , including the Itube workstation, a versatile desking solution designed for coworking environments.

Itube stands out in the office furniture world with its tubular profile, array of finishes and accessories, offering a refreshing change.

The Alea Itube coworking solution boasts a sleek and tubular design, offering a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality for modern offices. In the world of office furniture, this stands out. Blending linear lines with a 35 mm tubular design, this is both clean and curved, making a subtle yet impactful statement to modern office spaces.

Since 1972, Alea has been dedicated to crafting beautiful and ergonomic office furniture. The Alea Itube is a testament to their commitment to innovative design, earning them the Mixology23 Product of the Year award in the Loose Furniture category.

Saxen has incorporated Alea products into our collection, impressed by their noteworthy sustainability factors and versatility. Itube brings a touch of sophistication to any office space, catering to a diverse range of tones and hues. With a diverse palette of over 50 finishes spanning five materials (melamine, metal epoxy, fabric, FENIX and felt), Itube guarantees a level of customisation that allows you to tailor your workspace to perfection.

Furthermore, the desking system allows you the freedom to tailor it to your liking, enabling you to select your preferred desktop dividers for a personalised touch. Choose from a tubular bridge, a pinnable screen or a soft curtain. The curtain allows you to switch between retreating into your private workspace or co-working with your team.

In addition to these unique features, the Alea Itube also offers various accessories. Options include rectangular or leaf-shaped shelves, plant holders or built-in compartments. Saxen recommends using these accessories to enhance your workspace by displaying plants and books or discreetly storing electronic devices while you work.

The Alea Itube is beautiful — there's no doubt. But it's also functional. The option of a single-sided linear bench makes it an excellent long-term solution for libraries and universities when placed against a wall or by a window. The Alea office workstation can transform your space while maintaining a youthful quality through its organic curves and diverse finishes.

Are you ready to see the Alea Itube transform your workspace? If you're in the market for new office furniture , whether for meeting rooms or office desks, Saxen offers a range of innovative solutions to elevate your working environment.

We look forward to hearing from you.

The most ergonomic office chairs for comfortable working

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 10:14:59 GMT

A key element in an employee’s productivity is a well-equipped office, complete with a competent team, and quality office furniture , specifically a good office chair. Saxen offers a variety of office chairs, featuring modern designs, bold colours, and cutting-edge technology. However, not all chairs meet the necessary requirements to be considered truly ergonomic.

A true ergonomic chair is defined by the adjustability of the features to suit most body types. These features include adjustable seat height, seat depth, armrests, back height, lumbar support, among others.

Here at Saxen, we have tested out numerous chairs, before narrowing it down to the five best ergonomic office chairs for comfortable working. Get ready to transform the way you take a seat.

What is an ergonomic office chair?

A truly ergonomic task chair supports various body types comfortably and effectively. Each individual can personalise the chair's features to suit their body contours, height, and weight. The chair should support posture, comfort, and well-being while you relax into focus mode.

An ergonomic office chair should have customisable settings for seat and back height, lumbar support, and armrests to distribute weight properly. This reduces tension and muscle strain, improving your level of comfort, breathing, and even digestion. Investing in ergonomic chairs for your office can not only promote the well-being of employees but also enhance their productivity levels.

The five best ergonomic office chairs.

Saxen is a commercial workspace specialist company that focuses on the best office furniture for productivity, comfort, and aesthetics. After testing all these chairs ourselves, we have rounded up our five favourite ergonomic office chairs . If you’re interested in seeing any of these in your own workspace, call us at 01560 329 916 , and we can arrange a consultation.

1. Comfort Ergohuman Elite Generation 2

Comfort’s Ergohuman Elite G2 chair is a completely remastered and upgraded version of their globally acclaimed ergonomic task chair. A seamless blend of design and ergonomic science, this comfortable chair is perfect for intensive workers.

Certified for continuous 24-hour use, this chair accommodates people who work in shifts, dispatch centres, call centres, or anyone who engages in extended working sessions. Entrepreneurs, we’re looking at you.

Best features.

Flex zones for continuous back and lumbar support.
5D armrests with adjustable height, depth, angle and width.
Adjustable seat height, depth and tilt.
Lumbar support with adjustable tension.
Free-float recline with position locking.
Optional headrest and leg rest.

What we love about it.

We have huge admiration for the Ergohuman Elite G2. Its design and features are impeccable. There’s not much that we don’t love about it. We particularly appreciate the following:

→ Single lever control

Using one simple lever, you can now control the most frequently used chair functions: seat depth, height, and back tilt. Keep up with your workflow with fewer interruptions by making quick and easy adjustments to your comfortable chair.

→ Dynamic backrest recline

Float back into your chair with the comfortable back recline. Push the single lever back to pop the chair into free-float mode, an ingenious dynamic feature that allows you to lean back in your chair. Perfect for quick brain-storming sessions before jumping back into action. You can also adjust the backrest tension to make it easier to rock back and forth depending on the support level you require.

→ 5D adjustable armrests

The 5D adjustable armrests are one of the most ingenious aspects of Comfort’s Ergohuman Elite G2. You can adjust the armrests' angle, width, depth and front tilt, making the chair the most versatile solution for various tasks. Whether you’re typing, writing, or using a handheld device, this chair can adapt to all your needs.

Additional Specs.

2. Flokk RH Focus

The RH Focus 24/7 by Flokk is a highly recommended chair for both computer work and surveillance. Easy to adjust, this extra-thick cushioned seat provides all-day comfort, no matter your type of work. Complying with 24/7 standards, this chair is suitable for environments with shift work. Moreover, the chair continues to provide round-the-clock durable support, seven days a week.

Best features.

Thick, ergonomic cushions.
Tilting mechanism on the seat which follows your sitting position.
Movable inner back.
Easy controls with pictograms.
Adjusts to various body weights.
Left- and right-handed controls.

What we love about it.

The RH Focus 24/7 is an excellent seating solution for various tasks. Its highlights include:

→ Versatile uses

The RH Focus 24/7 is suitable for jobs that include monitoring, surveillance, control rooms, police interviews, fire emergency services, and air traffic control. Wherever there are intense shift patterns, let this chair be the backbone of your workspace.

→ Dynamic movement

Complete with a tilting mechanism, this chair follows you as you make micro-movements. This ensures all-day comfort, no matter how you move. The backrest automatically fits each user due to the moveable centre, making it easy to find your sweet comfort spot.

→ Various design options

The RH Focus 24/7 comes in black, grey, and brown. Additionally, you can customise the chair with various fabric colours and placement options to match your unique workspace aesthetic.

Additional Specs.

3. Ocee Four Flexion

The Ocee Flexion resembles a classic office chair at first glance, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Designed to fit seamlessly into most office spaces, this chair offers soft comfort through the high-density cut foam seat and a sculptured back. The chair’s shape is crafted to promote good posture, which can positively impact one’s breathing, digestion and overall productivity.

Best features.

Synchronised seating mechanism.
Free-float back option.
5-position lockable back.
Tension adjustment to suit various weights.
Compliant with HSE seating.
Optional adjustable headrest.

What we love about it.

We recommend the Ocee Flexion for office spaces for a variety of reasons. Below are the top benefits.

→ Soft and comfortable

If you prefer a traditional feel, the Flexion seat might be perfect for you. Its high-density foam provides soft and comfortable support for long workdays.

→ Encourages proper posture

Maintaining correct posture all day long is crucial for comfort at your desk. The Flexion features a spine-supporting curvature so you can sit comfortably throughout your working day.

→ Free-float mode

The Flexion offers presents a comfortable free-float mode, enabling individuals to recline comfortably based on their tasks. This feature is a valuable addition for brief screen breaks, reclining for brainstorming, or checking handheld devices. Additionally, you can securely lock the chair into five positions, which allows you to choose your preferred seating arrangement.

Additional Specs.

4. Summit Inflexion

The Summit Inflexion is a beautifully sculptured chair available in a wide variety of bold colours for those who want to make a statement. With ergonomic shaping and an optional memory foam seat, this ingenious task chair provides home-like comfort in the office.

Best features.

15 fabric colour options and also available in Harris Tweed®.
Height adjustable arms.
Easy to adjust the back height.
Inflatable lumbar support.
Independent back and seat tilt.
Foldable arm pads.

What we love about it.

The Inflexion is a bold office chair that sticks out from the crowd. Let’s look into the main benefits.

→ Back recline adjustment

You can adjust the back angle into various positions or leave it unlocked to enjoy free flow as you move naturally throughout your working day. This provides the utmost comfort, no matter how you choose to sit.

→ Inflatable lumbar support

Squeeze the bulb under the seat to inflate the lumbar support and press the button to deflate. This ingenious design makes it simpler than ever to adjust the lumbar, allowing you to find the most adequate support for your back.

→ Free-float mode

Not only can you choose from a wide range of colours, but you can also choose any fabric of your choice, including both natural and synthetic materials. The Inflexion is also available in Harris Tweed®.

Additional Specs.

5. Sedus se:motion

Designed for a fast-paced and creative office environment, the se:motion chair is the solution for spontaneous and flexible work. Traditionalism meets dynamics in this knitted ergonomic seating solution that seamlessly blends into community workspaces, business, and home offices.

Best features.

Upholstered with air-permeable knitted membrane cover.
Height-adjustable armrests.
Kinetic-Swing mechanism.
Optional adjustable lumbar support.
Sustainably made.
20+ seat colour options.

What we love about it.

This active chair sticks out in an office, and for good reason. Below are the main reasons we choose to supply the Sedus se:motion.

→ Breathable knit membrane

Kitted out with a 3D custom-made knitted membrane, this comfortable chair promises breathability, which is excellent for keeping you cool, especially in summer. It’s available in black, grey, red and petrol. It’s wrinkle-free, easy to clean, and helps maintain the chair's unique shape.

→ Height adjustable armrests

A genuine ergonomic chair has a range of adjustable features to ensure it suits a variety of users. While this chair is limited on some adjustable features (i.e., the adjustable lumbar support is only an optional add-on), it has height-adjustable armrests to provide proper support to your arms. This alleviates pressure on your shoulders and neck.

→ Improves posture

If you’re prone to back pain while sitting all day, this chair can mitigate the discomfort. The seat cushion, backrest, and armrests can encourage a good posture. The chair also opens at a 23-degree angle to allow more dynamic movement while seated.

Additional Specs.

Frequently asked questions

Peach Fuzz: Pantone Colour of the Year 2024

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 14:07:14 GMT

Pantone has announced their 2024 colour of the year, and it is peachy-sweet. A soft blend of pink and orange, this muted neutral is timid without being shy, and bold without being gaudy.

It’s velvet. It’s gentle. It’s warm. With its airiness and softness, it manages to embody a global collective movement towards a future focused on self-care and connection. Poetic and nostalgic, the colour of the year has been named: Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz .

The importance of the Pantone Colour of the Year.

Every year since 1999, Pantone has announced a statement colour that aims to address cultural movements and current events across the globe. The colour of the year fuses both culture and colour to express worldwide reflections on the year past and offer a focal point for the year ahead.

To choose the tone of the year, colour anthropologists collaborate to review all that’s happening in the real world and choose a colour to communicate it.

There is power in colour. Not only does this colour of the year reflect recent history, but it also sets a precedent for the years ahead. Most years, Pantone’s chosen hue has become iconic in the world of fashion, textiles, interior design, and even technology. Collaborating with brands like Ruggable, Motorola, and Polaroid, it’s evident how Peach Fuzz seamlessly integrates into products people use daily.

Colour can tell a story about what’s happening in the world. Looking back at previous years' colours, we can see how the chosen hues synthesised the modern world at the time.

The 2023 Viva Magenta conveyed a dynamic craving for boldness and confidence, especially as the internet had so powerfully brought people together throughout the pandemic. Viva Magenta reflected society’s willingness to try new things while upholding a sense of compassion.

The 2020 Classic Blue conveyed elegance and simplicity, reflecting a global desire for stability. Classic Blue has the ability to focus people and give them space to recalibrate their thoughts. It fosters resilience. Although Pantone announced this colour before the pandemic began, parts of their programme were extremely relevant all year long.

Pantone’s chosen colour of the year is important in trends moving forward. But it is more a mission to prove that colour is a language of its own, with the power to say more than words can.

What does peach fuzz reflect?

Peach Fuzz, the chosen colour for 2024, was carefully decided by a group of global colour experts. After reflecting on fashion trends, lifestyles, the entertainment industry, and even socio-economic conditions, the experts landed on Peach Fuzz. The soothing colour is both gentle and warm while paying homage to a familiar, almost vintage, feeling.

2023 has been a trying year for many of us. As we exit the era of a pandemic and enter another epidemic of a global financial crisis, there has never been a time when connection mattered more. As humans, we thrive on nurture, compassion and peace. We are taking time to step back from the busyness that swallows us up and learning how to focus on health, well-being, and community. That’s what Peach Fuzz embodies: it’s a hue that feels like a warm, caring embrace. It invites togetherness: compassion that is sweet and reassuring - something that we have been missing.

The Vice President of Pantone, Laurie Pressman, describes Peach Fuzz as a cocoon. Warm and safe, it has the ability to transport us back to a time that felt easier. Yet it has a contemporary modernity about it, inspiring a new softness ahead of us.

At Saxen , the mission of Peach Fuzz feels familiar. We believe in being a present force with a future-focused drive, striving for better days ahead. From our Carbon Reduction Plan that aims to see us carbon neutral by 2050 to our careful eye for evidence-based design developed to promote employee well-being and clarity, Saxen stands by everything Peach Fuzz represents. We are eager to see how Peach Fuzz finds its place in the world and inspires the year ahead.

How to use Peach Fuzz in design.

Since Peach Fuzz is designed to feel cosy and welcoming, it’s a transformative hue to incorporate in most spaces, both corporate and residential. It can transform an interior space , inspiring personal connection with those around you. Whether creating a collaborative office space or private rooms for clients, you can use Peach Fuzz in many ways.

Take Peach Fuzz up the walls, using it as a feature paint colour or as a pop of colour in a patterned wallpaper. Incorporate Peach Fuzz in statement artwork, inviting subtle senses of calmness into the area. Peach Fuzz can also be found in a range of office furniture supplied

FourPeople by Ocee.

Designed for the contemporary office, the FourPeople system provides acoustic privacy, allowing you smart spaces for catching up with colleagues, team meetings, or solo work. Available in a range of modular options, and in colours, including a soft peach upholstery, this is an excellent addition to the modern workspace.

Tribeca 3660 by Pedrali.

The Tribecca 3660 is a modern take on 60s patio chairs. Made for outdoor use and manufactured from steel and woven material, these chairs are reminiscent of summer days by the beach. Available in various colours, including a peach tone, this chair is a contemporary addition to outdoor spaces.

Quarters by Bisley.

Designed to bring peace to busy workplaces and available in a peachy tone, it’s hard to find a product that aligns more perfectly with Pantone’s 2024 Colour of the Year. These working quarters have sound-dampening panels to provide a quiet space for solo or group work while keeping users connected to the office and come with complementary acoustic ceiling panels and storage solutions.

Wall coverings by Textura.

You don’t need to choose a piece of furniture to incorporate the power of Peach Fuzz into your environment. Saxen supplies a range of beautiful peach-toned wall coverings, which you can use to decorate your entire space or a small feature of the wall. From plain peach wallpapers to textured and floral designs, enjoy a myriad of options when it comes to featuring peach on the wall.

Providing Peach Fuzz at Saxen.

To steal Peach Fuzz for your own workspace design, contact us , and we will be happy to work with you to feature Pantone’s colour of the year in hopes of embracing and inviting warmth, stillness, and a sense of calm.

Reduce your carbon footprint with Regener8

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:04:31 GMT

22 million pieces of furniture are thrown away annually in the U.K., most of which are sent to landfill [1] . We’re here to change that.

Not even 10% of people consider repairing furniture before throwing it away. We’re here to change that.

Thirty percent of adults throw away furniture that could be donated, reused, or sold instead. We’re here to change that.

Here at Saxen, we have a radical programme for reusing, reworking and recycling office furniture.

Meet Regener8.

How the Regener8 programme impacts sustainable office furniture.

Saxen offers a ground-breaking service — Regener8 — in which we will collect your old or unused furniture to dispose of it correctly. The furniture will either be recycled, reused, or reworked. All you need to do is give us a call and let us know what you’re looking to scrap, and we’ll do the hard work for you.

R euse office furniture

About 51 per cent of bulky waste, including furniture, is reusable. Instead of discarding unwanted furniture, let us know about it, and we can give it a second chance at life.

Through our Regener8 programme, we donate your unwanted furniture to organisations in need. If you are a third-sector organisation or local group and would like to benefit from the Regener8 program, please register on our online portal by completing our contact form .

Rework office furniture

When reuse is not an option, Saxen can upcycle and reuse redundant furniture when possible. For instance, if the fabric on your office chair or sofa has seen better days, we can reupholster it in a new fabric. You can choose from fabric made from recycled PET, 100% recycled polyester , or 100% virgin wool .

Alternatively, if your desk frame is in good condition, but the top is worn, we can replace the desktop with a new finish, effectively restoring the desk to look as good as new.

Recycle office furniture

Some office furniture cannot be reused or reworked, but that doesn’t mean it needs to contribute to our country’s landfill issue. Instead, Saxen splits the furniture into components to recycle it properly.

How our Regener8 initiative redefines office furniture sustainability.

The main mission of the Regener8 programme is to make a difference. At Saxen, we are on track to achieve net zero by 2050 . Regener8 is just one of the many ways we reduce our carbon footprint. When discarded furniture comes our way, we can upcycle it, repurpose it or recycle its component parts, ensuring it doesn’t go to landfill.

One of the primary outcomes is that this reduces your (and our) environmental footprint. This means we have less negative environmental impact, and we lessen our effect on climate change, forest degradation, and excess waste in nature.

The Regener8 programme also promotes a circular economy in which we prioritise the reuse and regeneration of materials so we can continue production more sustainably. At Saxen , we aim to keep our products and materials in use for as long as possible before they are recycled or discarded.

Our manufacturing partners use raw materials — such as old exhibition carpets, water bottles and jeans — and make them into a new product. Since our planet has limited resources, our Regener8 programme ensures we aren’t taking more from the planet than necessary.

How your office furniture can be reclaimed, recycled, and reimagined.

If you have office furniture that is worn, torn, old, tired, or broken, give us a call at 01560 329 916. Alternatively, you can fill out our contact form , and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

When you contact us, we will arrange a free consultation to understand your requirements and provide a quotation based on your needs. Once that’s all sorted, we will collect your furniture and take it to our sorting site. Here, we will either reuse, rework or recycle the furniture.

After we’ve regenerated the furniture, we will prepare a sustainability report to document the environmental and financial savings of the project. We will also provide a brief case study on how and where your product was reused or recycled.

Unveiling our plan to net zero by 2050.

Saxen is on track to achieve net zero by 2050 . We plan to achieve a 50 percent reduction by 2030. Net Zero Nation invited us to partake in a 12-month business transformation, and in line with this initiative, we offer furniture, flooring and acoustic solutions made from recycled materials. This includes discarded PET bottles, used coffee sacks and old jeans.

Other initiatives for reducing our carbon footprint include:

We offset our business miles by planting trees in the Saxen Grove .
We opt for online meetings where possible.
30% of our staff have switched to an electric vehicle.
We recycled all our cardboard waste packaging.
We supply from sustainable furniture manufacturers.
We use LED lighting in our showroom.
We use cloud-based storage to reduce paper waste.
We use 100% recycled toilet paper, which is shipped via a carbon-neutral shipping method.

Frequently asked questions

Sustainable office furniture in Scotland.

At Saxen, we proudly supply a range of sustainable office furniture. Our catalogue includes bamboo desks, acoustic panels made from recycled event carpets, and office chairs made from recycled PET bottles (see video below). Our beautiful furniture comes with extended guarantees, ensuring the longevity of the furniture pieces.

To see these eco-friendly products in your workspace, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help. Not only can we provide a range of products, but we also offer office space planning , move management , and recycling of your old furniture.

The power of biophilic office design

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:29:50 GMT

Around 85% of employees express dissatisfaction with the design of their workplace. A well-designed workplace can increase employee satisfaction by 33%, leading to more productivity and better health.

One of the most pivotal ways to enhance workspace aesthetics is through the concept of biophilic office design. Biophilic nature design — seamlessly integrating natural elements into the interior workspace — can mitigate stress levels and boost employee creativity.

What is biophilic design?

Biophilic design is an innovative concept that brings natural elements indoors, including into the corporate environment. The harmonious synergy between nature and architecture allows individuals to reconnect with the patterns of the natural world.

The design concept incorporates organic materials, natural light, vegetation, and beautiful natural elements. Introducing biophilic design in corporate settings can reduce stress, improve creativity, and enhance cognitive function because of the refreshing atmosphere.

So, biophilic design isn’t purely an aesthetic approach. It’s a strategic solution for health, happiness, and productivity through a calming and invigorating environment. Since most of us now spend our time in constructed environments, we have lost touch with nature. Biophilic design is there to reconnect us.

Biophilic office design examples

Biophilic office design aims to reconnect and re-energise employees, ultimately creating a healthier, happier, and more productive working environment. Below are 12 examples of how businesses can integrate biophilic interior design into the modern office interior.

Through these ingenious designs, you’ll notice how the natural elements transform a workspace, creating a beautiful harmony between the living world and the corporate one.

1. Indoor Plants

Indoor plants and greenery throughout the workspace are part of biophilic design. Potted plants and clusters of greenery can improve air quality and bring nature indoors. Some powerful indoor plants include spider plants, succulents, pothos vines, and snake plants.

However, it’s crucial that the plants don’t create a disconnection. A single plant or an isolated bit of greenery isn’t effective biophilic office design. Clusters and groups of greenery are much more effective for creating a sense of nature, air purification, and temperature control.

2. Natural light

Maximising access to natural light is a key part of biophilic office design. Large windows, skylights, and glass partitions allow natural light in, which can improve circadian rhythm, energy, and alertness.

Mirrors can also be strategically placed to bounce light throughout a room. If you are embracing the use of plants, natural light is also necessary for their health.

3. Biophilic colour schemes

Using nature-inspired or earthy colour palettes can create a grounding atmosphere. Calming hues inspired by landscapes or organic materials bring elements of the natural world in sight. These tones can reduce stress, improve employee well-being, and even enhance clarity. To incorporate this into the workspace, play around with wall colours, upholstery, accessories, room accents, and of course, plants.

4. Living walls

Vertical gardens and green walls with thriving life are both refreshing to look at, and they improve air quality. The Centre of Health Design found that patients with a view of trees recovered quicker than those with a view of a brick wall [1] . The patients were also happier and required fewer painkillers when looking at a tree view.

A living wall is a perfect solution for urban offices, as they provide a view of nature, resulting in happier, healthier, and calmer employees.

5. Biophilic furniture

Furniture made from natural materials or inspired by nature’s form is integral to biophilic design. Biophilic furniture is still a relatively new idea, but it’s becoming more popular in corporate spaces. It includes furniture that features natural materials, organic hues, and sculpted shaping inspired by nature.

At Saxen , we offer biophilic furniture options, including planter boxes for storage cabinets and tall planters for dividing spaces. To learn more about introducing biophilics into your business, get in touch .

6. Outdoor spaces

When you can’t bring nature indoors, take your employees outdoors. We wish all our meetings could be at the beach. But balconies, courtyards, and terraces are a scenic second choice.

Since nature is pivotal in people’s well-being and healing, it has become integral to biophilic office design.

7. Biophilic artwork

Displaying artwork that features natural elements like landscapes and animals is an easy way to incorporate biophilic design. This can be anything from small sculptures to large-scale murals or installations. Biophilic art in synthetic spaces prompts sensory pause in fast-paced environments.

8. Water features

Water features — such as fountains, fish tanks, and streams — are an aesthetic part of biophilic design. Water has calming and relaxing benefits and can reduce stress while acting as a sound absorber in noisy environments.

Designers must place the water feature in a common place, such as an entrance or lobby. If people can hear water but can’t find it, the body subconsciously goes on high alert in an attempt to find the source. Water features also create a slipping hazard, and they can increase humidity, so the environment must be correctly maintained.

9. Scenic views

Creating a scenic view is out of an architect’s control. However, if an office space overlooks a park or forest, open the windows and let the biophilic benefits into the workspace. Scenic views can create an inspiring and soothing environment for employees and visitors.

10. Biophilic ceilings

Ceilings with greenery, natural patterns, or those that mimic a natural sky have a calming effect on the work environment. Warm wood with hanging plants is also a solution for creating a biophilic ceiling. Biophilic ceilings offer a natural space-saving solution for smaller offices since they don't consume floor space.

11. Living dividers

As well as living walls, living dividers are a great way to separate workstations or create designated collaborative areas. You can also find movable dividers, allowing you to customise the biophilic elements depending on the situation. They also give privacy while maintaining an open and natural atmosphere.

12. Nature sounds

Integrating soundscapes of natural environments, including flooring water, birdsongs, or a gentle breeze, can create a serene auditory experience for workers. Studies have found that people who listen to nature sounds, like ocean waves, have lower muscle tension, stress, and heart rates.

Nature sounds can be played over speakers in the workspace, though some might not prefer this. Instead, employees may be able to use personal headphones and listen to nature sounds online via sites like A Soft Murmur .

Benefits of biophilic design.

Biophilic office design is a trend, yes, but it’s a trend for a reason. In the business sector, biophilic design is recognised as significantly beneficial for employee well-being. By embracing nature-inspired design, businesses have found a profound enhancement in their staff's overall health and satisfaction.

Here are three noteworthy benefits of utilising nature design in the workspace:

Mental health and stress reduction

Nature can soothe. Biophilic design reduces employee stress by incorporating greenery, natural light, water, and natural sounds. It also helps employees relax in their workspace and feel more refreshed.

Boosting productivity and creativity

Nature in the workspace directly links to improved productivity and creativity. Employees in biophilic settings experienced better focus, enhanced creativity, and more innovative thinking.

Health benefits and morale

Bringing nature indoors is gorgeous, but it also improves air quality and reduces indoor toxins. This leads to better overall health of employees, impacting the morale and fostering a sense of contentment at work.

How does biophilic design help the environment?

As well as impacting employee well-being, biophilic design also contributes to environmental preservation and sustainability.

Biophilic design reduces the use of synthetic and non-renewable sources. Instead, architecture uses natural elements like wood, greenery, and stone.

Biophilic design can also create a more energy-efficient workplace. Natural lighting reduces the need for artificial lighting, and greenery (like living walls) can cool indoor spaces organically.

Living walls and outdoor spaces can also absorb carbon in the atmosphere, lowering a company’s carbon footprint. The more trees in an outdoor working space, the more it can reduce the carbon in the atmosphere.

Lastly, when a company prioritises green practices and biophilic design, the employees learn more about sustainability and environmental conservation. This could also inspire them to practice green practices like walking to work or shopping locally.

How to incorporate biophilic design.

Including natural design in the workplace has many benefits. It helps employees reconnect with nature, improves air quality, and positively impacts their well-being.

The easiest way to incorporate biophilic design in your workspace is to add clusters of greenery, such as plants. They don’t even have to be live — fake plants can benefit employee well-being, too.

Also, consider letting in natural light and opening windows for ventilation, adding scenic artwork, or allowing employees to listen to nature sounds.

To incorporate biophilic design into your workspace on a more significant scale, contact Saxen for a consultation. We are passionate about biophilics in the workspace, and we can provide you with resources, tips, and products to transform your business.

Frequently asked questions

Introducing our carbon reduction plan

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:46:52 GMT

We recognise the importance of making a full and lasting commitment to reducing the greenhouse gas emissions from our activities, in support of the wider commitment of the world to limit global temperature increases and the impact on the planet.

We have committed to the following:

For our company to achieve Net Zero in line with the Science Based targets set out by the UNFCCC i.e. to achieve Net Zero no later than 2050 and target a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030.
To set realistic short- and long-term targets that are designed to achieve our Net Zero commitments.
To report the total Greenhouse Gas emissions of our business, at a minimum, on an annual basis.

Frontline Safety Office

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:17:10 GMT

A commercial interior design that incorporates workplace trends.

We worked closely with our client - Frontline Safety - and manufacturing partners - Autex, Crown, and IVC Flooring - to develop an interior scheme embracing current workplace trends. The goal was to create a space that would inspire, promote inclusive company culture, offer areas for collaboration, creativity, improved morale and enhance staff retention.

There is a critical role that the physical environment plays in shaping company culture and fostering a sense of belonging. Our interior scheme was designed to reflect Frontline Safety's values and aspirations, helping to create a space where employees feel motivated, inspired, and proud to be part of the organisation.

From waste to wonder

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 18:38:51 GMT

What do we love more than a well-made piece of furniture?

A piece of furniture that is sustainably made.

We’ve been keeping an eye on new products that are made using interesting processes and sustainable materials. In the spotlight this month is the Blue Finn Chair, Sedir seating, and the Earthly fabric.

Blue Finn Chair

Each year, hospitals use and throw out thousands of kilos of blue wrap – the material that hospitals use to keep surgical instruments sterile.

In partnership with, Bywyd, a climate-neutral technology provider, Vepa have launched the Blue Finn chair .

Made from 85% recycled blue wrap, the chair offers a carbon reduction of approximately 35% compared to virgin plastic.

How it works

Bluewrap is suitable to use but is too low-grade for furniture, Bywyd developed technology that means the material can be upcycled. The technology turns the Bluewrap into a high-quality material that can, for example, be made into chairs.

Sedir

Working towards a world where CO ₂ emissions are down and waste going to landfills is low, is Sixteen3 . They have re-imagined their Sedir range, which is now constructed from highly sustainable frame materials produced using agricultural waste.

This is a great alternative to traditional, less renewable wood-based materials and at the end of its life, it’s 100% recyclable as well as biodegradable and can be composted.

Earthly

Earthly, from Chieftan Fabrics , is made from 100% recycled fibres, manufactured entirely from waste textiles.

No dyes are used in the manufacturing process as the source yarns are already pre-dyed. Each shade in the collection is developed through careful selection and combination of those recycled yarns.

The end result? A range that doesn’t rely heavily on the dying process and can still offer a wide range of colours.

Spirit AeroSystems

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 15:08:19 GMT

Saxen were delighted to work with local designer Susan Anderson of Eikon Design, who undertook a major renovation of the reception area at Spirit AeroSystems, Prestwick. The design was created to integrate with the aesthetics of their world class £18m Aerospace Innovation Centre.

Soundtect Harmony Acoustic wall panels (made from recycled PET bottles) were added to the face of the 10m reception desk and to the upper gallery walls, complemented with striking Italian seating from Quadrifoglio.

Sea the change, be the change

Thu, 12 May 2022 14:38:33 GMT

Our Saxen showroom in Newmilns was awash with guests on Earth Day, 22nd April 2022, for our ‘Sea The Change’ event, celebrating and highlighting some of the sustainable products in commercial furniture, flooring, fabrics and acoustics.

Design that doesn't cost the earth

We were lucky to be able to showcase some of the most exciting innovations in product design, and this included the Whale Boardroom Table from Nomique.

Manufactured from over 1,000 recycled PET bottles, which were fished out of the canals of Amsterdam, the table design takes inspiration from a whale breaking through the water while the sustainably sourced oak frame is reminiscent of its skeletal structure.

We also featured other products that were manufactured from old jeans, coffee sacks, army uniforms, PET bottles and household waste, nettles, hemp and flax.

On the day

Presentations

A massive thank you to our presenters on the day for showcasing their sustainable innovations and talking about sustainability within the industry.

Lesley McKerral, Nomique, had the audience captivated with tales of how the plastic bottles are fished from the Amsterdam canals.

Cher Dedekind of Camira Fabrics discussed naturally sustainable textiles - “Waste made wonderful”

Clever Touch Screens transfixed the audience with their presentation on the latest technology in interactive displays.

Martin Anderson of Flokk spoke about what the circular economy is and how they think about waste at the design stage.

Richard Green from Crown Paints inspired the audience with his presentation on their sustainability program.

Yummy, scrumptious, food.

A locally sourced buffet went down very well from Alisdair Hood of Cottage Catering . Featured on the delicious menu were delicacies of Black Pudding, smoked salmon, Arran mustard mayo, Ballochmyle Brie and Arran Oaties. One word: Yum.

World-renowned lace

When we host events we like to promote local businesses too and so our event included a tour of our neighbours, MYB Textiles .

The world-renowned manufacturer of madras and lace was established in 1900 and still uses the original Nottingham lace looms to this day, exporting their products all over the world.

Practice what we preach

We also took the opportunity to collate the mileage travelled by all guests and have planted trees to offset the miles in our wee bit of Caledonian Forest in the Scottish Highlands.

Want to see our wee bit of forest? Visit the Saxen Grove.

A big thank you to everyone who contributed to making it a very successful event, we hope to have another one very soon!

Sea the Change

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 10:53:10 GMT

22 April 2022

10 am – 3 pm

Saxen is hosting events in April showcasing exciting innovations for commercial interiors including furniture; fabrics, flooring and acoustics made from recycled PET bottles, sea waste and recycled textiles.

Join us on World Earth Day to discover contemporary, innovative products with an environmental conscience.

Location: Riverbank Mill showroom

This event includes a fascinating tour of our neighbours – MYB Textiles – now the only producer in the world manufacturing patterned lace with original Nottingham lace looms.

Please email us at events@saxen.com if you are interested in attending.

Baker Hicks

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:45:42 GMT

Saxen were commissioned to create a modern and collaborative working environment to reflect the ethos of the Baker Hicks team.

Baker Hicks is a design, engineering and project delivery company with offices throughout the UK and Europe who deliver inspiring environments for tomorrows world. Saxen were delighted to work in tandem with the Baker Hicks team to create 'tomorrow's office' using innovative and exciting furniture solutions.

The Pavilion

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:18:36 GMT

Saxen were tasked to create a modern, trendy and welcoming space for the Park Hotel in Kilmarnock.

The Park Hotel named the space 'The Pavilion' and wanted it to be versatile enough to welcome guests for all occasions, whether for a coffee and catch-up with friends in the soft seating area, enjoying cocktails on the terrace, or a meal from the bespoke menu in the restaurant.

Saxen worked directly with the owners and, by introducing PL rope seating and French bespoke tabletops, created a European style summer vibe, which is also reflected on the terrace with outdoor heaters – enabling the space to be used all year-round.

We are delighted to have delivered such an exciting project which has been positively received by hotel guests and staff as well as local customers.

Student Accommodation

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 11:31:57 GMT

A student accommodation project was completed by us, creating spaces for students to unwind, meet and relax in.

Ashurst Offices

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 20:39:35 GMT

Ashurst is a multi-national law firm and their core values centre around delivering through collaboration. They envisaged a working environment that would reflect their core values to create a truly integrated and collaborative workplace for all.

This project has been nominated for Mixology North 2021 Workplace Interiors Award, 30k-70k sq. feet category, put forward by the architects Wellwood Leslie.

Saxen has provided Ashurst with their day-to-day furniture requirements since 2018. There had been some discussion of a major refurbishment of the Glasgow office and then, following the start of COVID-19 Lockdown in March 2020, the decision was made by Ashurst management that, whilst employees were working from home, this would be the ideal time for the major refurbishment to take place. During the past few years , the total number of Ashurst employees had more than doubled from 200 to 550 and space was therefore restrictive across the two floors the company already occupied. To allow for expansion, a 3rd floor in the same building was acquired.

From the outset, the design and refurbishment of the Ashurst Glasgow Office was to be an exciting project for our Saxen team and one of our aims was to create an inspirational workspace that would challenge traditional ways of working. Working with the designer Nick Roemer, Saxen assisted him by specifying furniture products that would not only fit in with but also enhance his design concepts.

Furniture made from recycled materials was included – chairs, soft seating and acoustic panels made from recycled PET bottles, chairs made from recycled clothing and acoustic solutions made from recycled bottles and fabric off-cuts.

Ashurst requested that a new bookable desk system be included to facilitate and embrace what was to be and indeed is, the new hybrid way of working. This system had been successfully introduced during the refurbishment of the Ashurst London offices and was to be emulated in Glasgow.

In June 2020, during the Covid-19 Lockdown period, virtual design team meetings commenced. Discussions and decision making were slightly more challenging than normal whilst the team adapted to this new style of communication. Saxen continued to propose and redefine furniture products to best fit in with and complement the design scheme.

In November 2020. following several months of client meetings, the furniture contract was awarded to Saxen. Saxen were also successful in bidding for the removal and recycling/disposal of their old furniture through our Regener8 Furniture Recycling Scheme. All products were then placed on order from our carefully selected UK and European manufacturers and a staged delivery schedule was planned to take place between March and September 2021 to tie in with the completion of building work on each floor.

Overall Project Plan:

Saxen’s Project Manager and Installation Manager both attended weekly scheduled site meetings with the client, main contractor and fellow sub-contractors to ensure that all furniture deliveries and installations were scheduled in line with the Overall Project Plan. Any potential delays with building works were identified and our delivery schedule was continually reviewed and updated accordingly. Our support staff then notified our manufacturers and installation team of any delays.

Kirsteen and Kevin continued to work very closely with the site team, both pre-start and throughout the contract, to ensure that all trades received clear instruction regarding the timeous completion of each area to facilitate seamless installation of the loose and fixed furniture.

Every delivery and installation was supervised by Installation Manager, Kevin Duffy. All furniture products were inspected prior to installation and any defects or damages reported back to our support staff to be actioned by the relevant manufacturers for quality control purposes and also to arrange provision of replacement parts and/or products as quickly as possible.

Completion:

Post completion site meetings were attended to ensure that our client was 100% satisfied with both the design and delivery of the furniture contract. Further requirements were subsequently actioned which included the publishing of the client O&M Manual.

We believe that the amazing spaces that have been created on all three floors of the new Ashurst LLP Glasgow offices showcase the very best elements of the future workspace and that they provide a truly inspirational environment to foster collaboration and engagement across the entire company.

Saxen are proud to have been selected to work closely with Ashurst LLP, Whitecross Building Consultancy Ltd, Insite Contracts Ltd, and Wellwood Leslie, and honoured to have been part of such a fantastically strong team to successfully deliver such an exciting and impressive project.

From jeans to chairs

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 11:54:08 GMT

From old jeans to contemporary furniture.

Yes, you read that right. From jeans to a chair – and not just jeans. We are talking army gear, coffee bags and suits all made into chairs and stylish storage. This innovative method of production comes from a brand called PLANQ. Their aim is to transform low-value materials and turn them into high-value interiors.

did you know that...

Anthony Gray, PLANQ UK partner said "It’s these staggering facts about fast fashion’s impact on the planet and the world’s poorest people should make us all think twice before buying something new to wear. This highlights the importance of PLANQ’s mission in creating a sustainable future by transforming low-value materials into high-value interiors."

By embracing the circle design process, PLANQ are bridging the gap between contemporary design, sustainable innovation and environmental awareness.

The outcome: stylish furniture.

From stools, chairs, tables and storage solutions, PLANQ creates unique pieces of furniture made from local resources as much as possible and recycle leftovers in a circular way*.

Within the furniture industry, we are already seeing plastic being used to create new furniture, but PLANQ are taking it a step further by using different materials such as clothing. So rather than all this clothing going to a landfill, it’s turned into contemporary furniture.

This is a trend we can really get behind.

"As an example, The Unusual Chair collection shows that you can turn textile waste into unique, sustainable, environmentally friendly, and above all high-quality products, instead of destroying it. This Scandinavian inspired collection of products consists of 12 pairs of recycled jeans which is approx. 3.5kg of textile waste and saves up to 16.275 litres of water." – Anthony Gray from withann.

Below is a look at some of the PLANQ product ranges.

If you would like to know more about any of the products listed above or would like to request a brochure, send an email to enquiries@saxen.com

*Side note: What is the circular economy?

Wondering why we keep using ‘circular’ throughout this? We are talking about this in relation to the ‘Circular economy’. The circular economy is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources.

Regener8 with Saxen

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 12:22:48 GMT

Let's furnish the world better.

Do you know how much commercial waste goes to landfill each year?

It's 37.2 million tonnes per year.
To put this into perspective for you, that’s the equivalent of three million London double-decker buses per year.

In the commercial interiors industry, it is our responsibility to start making changes to reduce waste and lessen the amount going to landfill each year. That’s why Saxen have started a new initiative – Regener8.

What is Regerer8?

Our new Regener8 project aims to reduce your environmental footprint by providing the services to collect furniture at its end-of-life and to either find a suitable place for a second life or to break down the product into its components and recycle the materials, to divert products from going to landfill.

How does it work?

We offer a service to collect existing products to dispose of correctly. After an initial consultation and quotation, our service provider will collect the furniture and take it to their sorting site where they will process the materials - either to reuse, rework or recycle.

A sustainability report will be collated confirming the environmental and financial savings to the environment as well as a case study on how and where the product was reused/recycled.

What happens to the products?

Products get sorted into 3 main piles:

reuse

Furniture suitable for reuse is put onto an online portal for schools and colleges, community groups, charities and NGOs to apply for – there are over 180 different members on this site.

rework

When direct reuse is not an option, products will be upcycled and reused when possible.

recycle

Products that have reached their end-of-life will be split into components and recycled - 97% of all items are recycled.

What are the benefits?

Responsible disposal of products
Reduced environmental footprint
No landfill taxes
Promoting a circular economy
Positive contribution to community groups in need
Sustainability report and case study to promote positive actions

Need more information on how you can take a step towards being more sustainable?

Send us a message for more information or call 01560 329916.

Work from home safely

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 12:14:00 GMT

As much of the country and the world has switched to home working out of necessity due to restrictions caused by the virus, there have been certain oversights when it comes to safety while working from home.

In the office, there are certain British Standards for office equipment that must be followed, however, in the home office this is not required, despite similar equipment being used. For example, recent stats Electrical Safety First show that 67% of people are using extension cables while working from home that has been bought on the high street. These particular extension cables do not follow the same standards as the ones used in the office.

Other stats from the study:

44% of people daisy chain sockets
38% of people have more devices plugged in than when in the office
33% of people aren’t aware of the risks of overloading sockets

So, how can we help?

Whether working from the office or from home, it is important to keep your staff safe. By installing a working from home (WFH) kit you can ensure compliance to British Standard BS6396 no matter where you work. We particularly like the OE Electrics WFH ranges that comply with safety standards set in the office.

A few examples of what we can offer:

Our team are on hand to answer any questions or queries you have - contact us enquiries@saxen.com

Changing attitudes to the office post-covid

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 13:03:54 GMT

Prior to the pandemic, prime office space was at a premium and the goal was to fit as many people as possible into the space in order to keep overheads to a minimum.

We travelled to work in cars, buses or trains and crowded into stations, lifts and break rooms. Working from home was perceived to be for the lucky few whose job allowed them this freedom or for those who worked for themselves.

Fast forward to post-pandemic 2020 and around 60% of people are working from home – some are lucky to have a home office but many work from dining room tables, breakfast bars or from the sofa with a laptop.

But is WFM (working from home) all that it is cracked up to be?

Many are feeling liberated from the rush hour queues and cramped trains and are loving the extra time freed up in getting to and from work; the convenience of sticking a load in the washing machine while taking a phone call or other household chores that used to be done in a rush before leaving for work or in the evenings.

Others long to return to the structure of the 9-5 routine, catching up with their co-workers and the collaboration of ideas that a busy office brings. For some, it may be the only social interaction they have in a day.

The big question is whether working from home is as productive as being in an office environment. In the short-term it is hard to judge – some report increased productivity while others find it hard to concentrate and motivate themselves. Was WFM successful for some as they viewed it as a short-term arrangement? Would productivity and standards slip if it were to continue on a more permanent basis? What would happen to health and wellbeing if it were to be a more permanent culture? How would trainees and new staff be mentored by their experienced colleagues?

The answer is based on individual circumstances, type of work and personality. While some have grasped the opportunity of WFH with both hands, others have struggled and long to return to the office. Therefore, it is important that each person and job function is assessed individually going forward before a company decides to downsize their premises and reduce the high cost of rent and rates. Consideration should be given to redesigning the office to include collaboration areas, breakout space and choice of work areas. Systems and IT should be looked at in detail and improvements made with the help of the staff.

The coming months will be an experiment for many organisations and involve a lot of soul-searching to achieve the objectives of the organisation, retain staff and attract new employees. But it is expected that the post-Covid office will be a more flexible space with staff dipping in and out, with the office used more for meetings, connecting and collaboration with colleagues.

Making your workplace safe to return to after coronavirus.

Tue, 12 May 2020 17:03:22 GMT

As we start to prepare for the ‘new normal’ after much of the world has dramatically changed due to covid-19, the way we work in offices will be different too.

Before we return to the office, consider the design of your workplace to adhere to social distancing measures recommended by the government to stop the spread of Covid-19. Saxen are able to help with space planning, social distancing screens and furniture solutions that you can implement in the workplace to help reduce risk and keep your staff safe.

Some of the measures you can take to make your workplace safe to return to after Corona Virus:

Social Distancing Measures
Creating Physical Barriers
Fever Scanning CCTV
Door Automation
Contactless Access Controls
Softphone Telephone Systems
Cleaning and Hygiene

Here are some solutions that you could implement:

1. Distancing Measures

Safe distancing

Move furniture where possible to separate staff or customers
Avoid close back-to-back or face-to-face configurations
Split up grouped desking or tables
Move desks to utilise wall space
Use of barriers between desks
Make use of meeting rooms and breakout areas normally used as social gathering areas to add extra desks
Encourage employees to email, text or call rather than meeting with co-workers
Operate a one-way system in office corridors, use floor vinyls or stickers
Stagger break times to stop gatherings at canteens and kitchen areas
Consider flexible working hours to stagger start/stop times (lift capacity)
Put up signage to remind staff of social distancing rules
Staff should not car share unless from the same household
If a staff member feels unwell, they should immediately go home and self isolate

Example of a new floorplan: slide the cental bar to see changes.

2. Creating physical barriers

Glazed Sneeze Guards to shield against droplets
Acrylic which can be wiped clean with usual disinfectant
Acrylic top screens can be added to existing desk screens
Standard desk screens in healthcare vinyl with waterproof surface and antimicrobial properties
Available to fit any size of desk

Physical Barrier Examples: floor stanidng and surface-mounted

3. Cleaning surfaces

Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces thoroughly and frequently:

Door handle
Light switches
Sinks and taps
Phones
Kitchen surfaces
Calculators
Keyboards & Mice
Bin lids

4. Personal Hygiene

Discourage sharing of equipment or suppliers (cups, spoons, milk, coffee etc)
Employees to wipe down surfaces
Company to increase cleaning schedule and target high touch areas
Signage to remind staff to wash hands often and for 20 seconds
Use paper towel to turn off taps
Use paper towels of air dryers to dry hands, do not share towels
Don’t touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth
Cover your mouth and nose with inside elbow or tissue when coughing and sneezing
Use hand sanitiser when it’s not possible to wash hands
Change clothes upon return home and wash at highest temperature recommended on care label

Saxen can help with a safe return to work with services such as space planning, move management, offsite storage, floor box moves and IT moves. Please contact us for more information.

Some quiet time

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 17:48:41 GMT

The way we work and our workspaces have changed over the years. But open-plan offices aren’t without their challenges. Think loud conversations, buzzing technology and other distractions.

Cue the introduction of beautiful and practical architectural acoustic solutions into commercial interiors. This furniture solution includes acoustic wall panels, hanging screens and room dividers for open-plan offices, formal meeting rooms, receptions and glass-fronted rooms.

Wall-mounted acoustic solutions

A feature wall that’s also functional? Yes, please! This is likened to an art piece that also absorbs noise which is the result of softer material used. These are used to reduce reverberation and background noise to help create a comfortable working environment.

Clever Cubism statement acoustics

Using 3D effects you can create a masterpiece that can be used in schools to offices, bringing asymmetrical design, creating a statement piece. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different effects like waves, prisms, cubes and lines for maximum impact.

Freestyle bespoke acoustic solutions

There’s nothing like a bespoke creation to help your office and ultimately your brand stand-out. Create stunning, utterly modern wall and ceiling designs that catch attention. Mix up materials and develop a unique look whilst ensuring acoustic management whatever space.

Planet aware acoustic spaces

As the world moves towards greener credentials, eco furniture and acoustic solutions have emerged to match. Like the environmentally friendly and recyclable, Freestyle Acoustic Panels which are ideal for projects when there is an eco-conscious consideration to be made.

Acoustic wall panels

Wall hanging panels, which hang at regular intervals can help to break up sound waves across an office, reception or café area. Not only do they create make-shift walls, but they also make a bold and rich statement if you experiment with colour and patterns.

Divide and conquer with office acoustic solutions

Some of the main noises around the office are people typing at their keyboards and speaking at their desks. A trick is to add in acoustic partitions dividing desks or situated at the workspace that absorbs the noise of typing and conversations. The desk partitions efficiently reduce the noise level, eliminate reverberation in the interiors, and provide a sense of intimacy.

Space-saving acoustic partitions

Partition walls allow for space management without the necessity of building permanent walls. Often cited disadvantages of the open-plan office are lack of privacy and noise. Panels and office walls allow to designate smaller zones within a big office and at the same time create spaces of a specific purpose.

Light-up the room with acoustic lighting

Two birds, one stone, so to speak. Adding acoustic panels to your lights is the perfect mix, and that’s exactly what LightSound is. Developed with the workers' well-being in mind, LightSound combines functionality with styling, allowing you to furnish your space with the utmost freedom of configuration while ensuring outstanding technical performance levels.

For information about how we can help you introduce acoustics into your workplace, contact us here.

Haggis, Neeps and Pilates

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 19:37:47 GMT

Saxen organised a successful event centred around the theme of wellness.

On the 30th January, we hosted an event in our showroom ‘Haggis, Neeps & Pilates’ with a theme centred around ‘Wellness’. The day was well attended by industry professionals and featured great discussions and idea-sharing.

We organised tours for attendees around the MYB Textiles, a lace factory that is based near our HQ that produces world-renowned madras and Nottingham lace.

Some of the furniture featured in our showroom on the day was provided by Ocee Design and Knightsbridge. Ocee Design held an interesting workshop on wellbeing at work which explored what wellbeing was, how to achieve it and its impacts on us.

Karen from The Pilates Room ran a pilates class (slow easy movements as everyone was in workwear) and taught attendees relaxation techniques. We also had tasty canapes that paid homage to Robert Burns by Alisdair Hood of Cottage Catering.

The day was a massive success and we are excited to be planning another event for later this year.

You can view images from the day in our gallery below.

For information about how we can help you introduce acoustics into your workplace, contact us here.

Saxen receives ISO 9001 and 14001 certification

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 19:15:23 GMT

Saxen has been awarded two certification accreditations.

Saxen is proud to announce that the company has been awarded both the ISO 9001:2015 accreditation for Quality Management and ISO 14001:2015 accreditation for Environmental Management, highlighting our commitment to continually improve our products and services while reducing our impact on the environment through energy-saving and recycling.

ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Standard is fundamental to our operations at every level and focuses on developing and delivering products and services that meet customer requirements with the aim of improving customer satisfaction.

The internationally acknowledged ISO 14001 Environmental Management System certification recognises companies that have adopted environmentally responsible practices in their business processes and strives to minimise our environmental footprint.

This is a major milestone for Saxen and reflects the responsibility that our management has always taken to ensure that we look after our employees, customers and our business at all times through the practice of continual improvement.

Out of this world

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 19:25:34 GMT

Our march campaign features the Capsule chair from Palau.

Our March advert for Business HQ Magazine literally went out of this world. The 9th edition of the magazine left the Earth's atmosphere this month, before falling back down to the surface when its carrying balloon burst, with our advert inside! You can watch the moment here.

For this campaign, we wanted to include a space-themed advert and decided on the spectacular Capsule Chairs from Palau, that slightly resemble being in a space capsule.

Capsule soft seating collection offers a stylish solution to the increasing need for concentration and privacy in office environments. In an atmosphere of security, comfort, and innovation you can make phone calls or read without being disturbed. The collection creates privacy without being completely cut off from the surroundings.

You can view some of the images of the Capsule Collection below. Contact us on enquiries@saxen.com for more information.

Saxen goes international

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 20:38:28 GMT

Saxen were recently in the beautiful country of Hungary completing an amazing installation for a client in the capital city of Budapest.

Our global client requested some collaborative, agile working meeting areas to compliment the office space, so it was essential we found the combination of products right for them

We installed a Verco high Martin table next to a wall mounted TV for meetings and conference calls paired with Miura high stools, which were chosen for their angular contemporary design.

In the meeting rooms we fitted tilt top mobile tables by Mercol, which allowed our client to cater for any number of people in the room and provided flexibility for it also to be used as a training room.

The soft seating was by Swedish manufacturer Johanson Design and was used in three breakout/meeting areas within the workspace.

The height adjustable desks by Mercol were the perfect fit for the agile working environment.

You can view the photos from our install below.

Divide and conquer

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 20:45:11 GMT

Our January press campaign features Palisades ll from Spacestor.

Open offices bring great benefits like bright spaces, collaboration and space but also challenges without walls to divide, open plan offices can be noisy with no privacy. With organisations changing so fast, offices need a smart way to repurpose spaces quickly and cheaply.

Palasides ll from Spacestor was created to meet this need. It offers a new way of dividing zones in a light and minimalist way. Its design can be customised with biophilia, shelving and other accessories and can grow to any size, making new architectures around or even over your desk; your imagination is the limit.

Taking inspiration from the great mid-century modernist Californian designer Muriel Coleman, Palisades ll brings Coleman’s light, harmonious aesthetic into the ever-evolving workspace.

You can view some the images of Palasides ll below and on their website - Contact us on enquiries@saxen.com for more information.

Urban adventure

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 20:55:24 GMT

Our October press campaign features Harc sofa from Ocee Design.

Open spaces require clever furniture solutions to create privacy. In busy working environments there is a need for furniture that encourages social interaction, intimate meeting places, privacy, and places of refuge where focus and concentration can happen.

Harc, from Ocee Design, was created to encourage the basic need of listening by cutting out or reducing the surrounding noise with its clever design. The name Harc echoes the arc shape with its sweeping curves that wrap around to create a warm and cosy enclosure. Living up to their design mantra that ‘Everybody should be able to work, learn, meet or be entertained in the most beautiful, comfortable, creative and productive spaces.’

Spec: Harc is styled with sophisticated low and high back sofas, all designed on leg frames either in wood or aluminium. The range comes in different variations – sofas, privacy booths for teams to work at or the single chair.

Biophilic design in the workplace

Wed, 02 May 2018 20:12:01 GMT

Of all the design trends to hit the workplace, biophilic design is probably one of the healthiest.

The term biophilia, meaning love of nature, focuses on human’s innate attraction to nature and natural processes. With the current increase in urbanisation, human beings have become separated from nature, which has caused an increase in stress-related illnesses.

The relationship between individuals and their environment can be a crucial determinant of how they feel, perform and interact with others. For employers, the importance of workplace design, a space where we spend many of our waking hours, is becoming more of a priority as we realise that this relationship between individuals and their environment is important to our overall health and productivity.

Biophilic Design incorporates direct or indirect elements of nature into the built environment we spend so many of our hours in. Research has shown that Biophilic Design in the workplace reduces stress, blood pressure levels and heart rates, increases productivity and improves well being of staff.

We have hand-picked some Biophilic designs that can integrate into your workspace:

Hiding from the boss

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 21:24:40 GMT

Dens, pods and booths – the new trend for informal meeting areas... and hiding from the boss.

As open plan offices continue to be the go-to of office design, the need for areas to have meetings, team working and a little privacy becomes important. That’s why dens, pods, and booths are the perfect pieces of office furniture to provide a breakout area in an otherwise open space.

Breakout areas have evolved over the last few years and rather than a formal meeting or boardroom, many companies are opting to have these informal breakout spaces. A place to huddle, meet, chat and exchange ideas. High back booths, pods, and dens also have acoustic properties and provide privacy with their sound-proofing walls, making the area a little more quiet and the perfect place to hide from your boss.

We have cherry-picked our favourite pods and booths currently out there, which you can see in the gallery below. Available in a wide range of fabric options including imitation wood, fabric made from nettles, tartans, synthetic fabrics or wool mixes, the pods and booths can be coordinated to fit your space. If you would like to know more about, email us on enquiries@saxen.com .

Henry Brown & Co office refurbishment

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 21:31:02 GMT

For our client, the main aim was to make each space in this office project as modern as possible, without taking away from the buildings original character. They wanted to preserve features such as the cornice and the fireplace which add character to the office, without taking away from the furniture design.

Saxen introduced furniture to the office that complements the buildings beautiful features. We used a Buronomic table for the Boardroom and striking blue Tas Chairs by Pledge. The reception is also by Buronomic and has a Verco Salt chair, this seating was also used for the open plan office. Finally, we used the Mesh Mirus Chair and Lii Visitor Chairs for the main office to add a nice breakout space in the room.

View our photos, by Tom Cairns Photography below:

Centre of attention

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 20:41:14 GMT

The brief was to create attractive, comfortable yet practical modular seating zones for customers at The Centre, Livingston. That's where Saxen stepped in. We supplied and installed 54 bespoke units of contemporary modular bench seating which offers the Centre the flexibility they required.

The Saxen team are delighted to have received positive feedback from the client, the shops and customers alike for our installation crew and the products.

Indoors Outdoors

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 20:47:57 GMT

Our April Trends newsletter gets excited about stylish exteriors.

Whether you're looking to create a sun-trapped chill-out zone, a space to enjoy alfresco dining, or seeking to refresh your venue's outdoor spaces for dining or relaxing, the latest trends in outdoor furnishing are a long way from white plastic tables and deck-chairs. Our outdoor spaces are now treated as an extension of our homes or workspaces - a place that welcomes entertainment, dining and relaxation.

Style and quality needn't be compromised as readers will see from our April Trends selections. In addition to stunning outdoor chairs, sofas, tables and even bars, well lit exterior spaces provide a wonderful opportunity to embrace warm summer nights. From illuminated garden pots to LED lit sofas and tables, there are many open-air lighting solutions available to help create a magical atmosphere.

Below are some examples to inspire outdoor living - we invite you to visit our Ayrshire showroom discover more options for your outside spaces.

The Italian job

Wed, 22 Feb 2017 21:58:27 GMT

Our February Trends newsletter dreams of Italian interiors.

Mention Italy and a particular sort of effortless glamour comes immediately to mind. In a country where even the police uniforms are designed by Armani, it isn't surprising that they take their interior design very seriously. That's why our February Trends looks at some of the hottest Italian manufacturers.

Office upgrading or redesign may not be quite as simple as throwing together your favourite pasta dish - but it doesn't have to cost the earth - you simply need have the right ingredients to get started.

Below are some examples to inspire la dolce vita - we invite you to visit our Ayrshire showroom to see and feel for yourself the value of stunning Italian design.

saxen-2022

Innovative interiors: agile spaces for collaborative success

The importance of collaborative spaces.

Essential furniture for agile workspaces.

> Modular desks and tables

> Collaborative seating

> Height-adjustable tables

> Mobile whiteboards

> Soft seating areas

First choice: second hand.

The aesthetic and functional value of refurbished furniture.

Integrating flexibility and functionality.

Invite the outdoors in.

Join the RE:volution. C reate collaborative spaces that won't cost the earth.

Second chances: redefining commercial interiors through reuse

Hospitality and leisure:

designing distinctive experiences.

Office interiors:

the advantages of reuse furniture.

Education:

fostering engaging learning environments.

Healthcare:

merging functionality with comfort.

Retail:

designing inviting public spaces.

Join the RE:volution commit to sustainability with Saxen's RefurbHub.

Saxen's latest carbon reduction plan

Saxen understands the critical importance of a comprehensive and sustained commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from our operations, aligning with the global effort to limit increases in global temperatures and mitigate environmental impact.

Edinburgh Uni Green Hub

The brief.

Our approach.

The results.

> Sustainable impact.

> Cost efficiency.

> Community example.

New year, old wisdom: sustainable furniture solutions for 2026

Your 2026 resolution.

Neilston Learning Campus

This state-of-the-art facility was designed to bring Neilston Primary, Madras Family Centre and St Thomas’ Primary together on one shared site.

Sustainable, inclusive and inspirational.

Constructionline Gold renewed

Saxen's is pleased to announce that we have successfully renewed our Constructionline Gold membership and achieved Social Value certification.

What is Constructionline Gold Member Certification?

> Enhanced credibility and trust

> Emphasis on Health & Safety

Go modular: flexible furniture for enduring functionality

Flexible and functional.

Cost effective, smart office furniture.

Aesthetic appeal.

Saxen's RefurbHub has embraced the modular revolution – it makes sense, and it’s time to make it a priority in interior design considerations.

Sustainability considerations .

Transforming workspaces for the future.

Cloud Dancer at work: bringing Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year into commercial spaces

What this means for architects and designers.

Brand‑forward backdrops.

Flexible workplace zones.

Healthcare & hospitality.

Retail & showrooms.

Design pairings and palettes.

> Warm & human (hospitality, boutique offices)

> Calm & clinical (healthcare, wellness)

> Bold contrast (retail, creative studios)

Materials, finishes and durability.

> Paint and solid surfaces

> Textures

> Soft furnishings

> Metals & joinery

Lighting & perception.

> Use layered lighting

> Adjust colour temperature

> Test in situ

Operational considerations.

> Maintenance

> Accessibility

> Sustainability

Join the RE:volution. Use Cloud Dancer to elevate your interiors.

First choice – second-hand: discover the refurb revolution

Customising refurbished furniture .

Limitless opportunities.

Environmental and financial considerations

Join the RE:volution.
C reate collaborative spaces that won't cost the earth.

Join the RE:volution
commit to sustainability with Saxen's RefurbHub.

Join the RE:volution.
Use Cloud Dancer to elevate your interiors.