London-based industrial-design studio Blond celebrated its 10-year anniversary by renovating its canal-side studio in East London, creating a space that matches its changing workflow and team culture.
A studio built for collaboration
The redesign reflects the studio’s growth. Early needs focused on basic space, but now the emphasis is on supporting different workstyles—client workshops, prototyping, and remote collaboration. Founder James Melia explained that as the team expanded, the workspace had to balance function with an environment people enjoy.
“At first, it was just about having enough room,” Melia said. “Now we need areas for teamwork, client sessions, and hands-on work. Culture matters much more than it used to.”
The new layout includes a second meeting room, a large collaborative area for up to 20 people, an expanded kitchen, a display space, and a breakout zone. A bigger workshop improves the studio’s 3D capabilities, allowing more digital fabrication and prototyping. Unused areas were transformed to encourage social interaction and flexibility.
Designing for function and aesthetics
The renovation let Blond apply its own design approach to the space. The studio kept the building’s industrial feel while adding natural wood, stainless steel, exposed structures, and a monochrome color scheme. The result is a clean but welcoming environment.
Custom workbenches line one side of the studio, designed to keep the area uncluttered while supporting high-performance equipment. Melia noted that standard furniture didn’t meet their needs, so they built their own desks with integrated storage and hidden hardware. “A calm visual space helps creativity,” he said.
Lighting and displays were also designed in-house. The studio’s research-based process, used for medical products, electronics, packaging, and furniture, now has a physical space that reflects its exacting standards.
The renovation strengthens Blond’s identity as a studio that values craft and practicality. Custom solutions, from storage to lighting, go beyond appearance to address real problems intentionally.
For now, the studio serves as a clear example of Blond’s philosophy: a space where every detail has a purpose, blending functionality with careful consideration. The flexible workspace approach mirrors trends seen in other creative hubs, offering a model for adaptable design environments.
