DEGW Supports JWT’s Great Brand Work
(29 June 2002)

After 60 years in Berkeley Square, J Walter Thompson, the multi national advertising agency, famous for its creation of enduring brands such as Kit Kat and Persil, has re-created itself in 80,000 sq ft of new space in Knightsbridge Green.

Seeing the move not just as an exercise in interior design but an opportunity to introduce a new and fresh approach to its work the agency turned to DEGW, the international design consultants.

DEGW was charged with clearly articulating JWT’s brand values in the way they use their new space while communicating the firm’s history and stability as a leading creative business.

We recommended a shift from working in ‘skills silos’ where agency staff work in single discipline areas to a more open culture that encourages the enhancement of skills through sharing knowledge and ideas.

“Our design has created a transparency that goes right through the building, helping internal communication and providing a welcome that encourages clients and visitors to participate.”

JWT’s knowledge centre is now located in reception, open and welcoming to visitors, providing an ‘integration hub’ and access to the agency’s resources on line. This whole area, including three audiovisual presentation rooms is capable of providing one huge flexible space for events.

Entry to each floor is through an ‘inspiration zone’ - an area for creative work, ideas and concepts decided on by staff and changed frequently. Staff are arranged in client teams, integrating creatives, planners and account handlers with space for clients to join their teams when they visit.

The centrepiece is a 60ft silver S-shaped bar - chosen by staff - that showcases the brands of JWT client, Diageo, and where a specially built bridge leads to a roof terrace.

Ros King, JWT’s managing director, said: “DEGW’s creative but practical and collaborative approach has produced an overall design that has allowed us to bring the best of JWT - its people and its clients - to a better environment which supports the production and development of great brands.”

For further information contact:

Richard Keitch
DEGW plc
Porters North
8 Crinan Street
London N1
T: 020 7239 7777

Email: rkeitch@degw.com