Microsoft - Manchester

Client: Microsoft
Sector: Work Spaces
Project: Bespoke Reception Desk with Height-Adjustable Work Area

At YBP Group, we were honoured to work with Microsoft on creating a premium, welcoming reception area that would make an impactful first impression. The project involved the manufacture of a bespoke reception desk that included a height-adjustable work area and intricate design features. From start to finish, our team worked closely with Microsoft and their design team to ensure every detail met their expectations for both aesthetics and functionality.

Initial Consultation & Design Collaboration

The project began with an initial design provided by the client, but it required some adjustments to make it feasible to manufacture while still achieving the desired premium look. A key design challenge was the gold rods that were to be incorporated into the reception desk. These rods had to fit precisely within bosses, and with the added complexity of powder coating, we faced the challenge of tolerances. The rods needed to slide freely through the bosses without scratching, but also be tight enough to secure with hidden grub screws inside the counter. This required extensive collaboration and precise testing to ensure the components worked seamlessly together.

Material Selection & Manufacturing Process

For the desk’s construction, we selected a combination of high-quality materials to achieve the desired premium finish and durability:

• MDF sub-base for the main structure and solid surface areas
• Laminate for the main body of the desk
• Aluminium bars for decorative accents
• Flex neon LED tape to provide smooth, even lighting around the DDA compliant section and signage

The client chose these materials for their aesthetic appeal and the durability of the work surfaces, ensuring the desk could withstand daily use while maintaining a polished look.

The desk was manufactured in three main sections: two straight sections and one barrel section under the DDA compliant area. We used pre-made formers to ensure accuracy and achieve the desired curvature. For the solid surface elements, we created a template and installed it on the desk for client approval before proceeding. The main challenge was ensuring that the bosses were manufactured to a 0.2mm tolerance. This was critical for the gold rods to slide freely without any friction or gaps.

Project Timeline & Delivery

The project was completed within an 8-week timeframe, from final design approval to finished manufacturing. A well-structured production schedule allowed our team to stay on track and ensure everything was completed within the specified timeframe.

Upon completion, the desk was delivered to the site in four pieces: the L-shaped section, barrel, and two separate worktops. Thanks to our detailed planning and preparation, the installation was smooth and efficient. All the installation team had to do was connect the four pieces, hook up the power, and install the 334 rods. This entire installation was completed in just one day.

To ensure the installation process was as seamless as possible, we invite the installation teams to visit our workshop ahead of time. During these visits, we provide a thorough overview of the product and walk them through the assembly process. This proactive approach allows for smoother installations, saving time and avoiding any potential issues during the on-site process.

Challenges & Solutions

The main challenge in this project revolved around the precision required for the bosses that held the gold rods. We needed to ensure that the rods would slide freely without scratching and that they would be securely fitted without falling through. To achieve this, we did extensive testing and fine-tuning to ensure the tolerances were perfect. This required careful attention to detail and a focus on precision during the manufacturing process.

Outcome & Client Satisfaction

The final result exceeded the client’s expectations. Microsoft’s team expressed that this was the best reception area they had seen within the company, and they were thrilled with the premium quality and finish of the bespoke desk. Due to the success of this project, we are currently working on a similar reception desk for them in 2025, with a different colour scheme to suit another location.

Key Takeaways

One of the key takeaways from this project was the importance of achieving precise tolerances, especially when incorporating decorative elements like gold rods. This project reinforced the value of close collaboration with the client and their design team to solve design challenges and create a seamless, functional product. Additionally, our approach of involving the installation team early on in the process proved to be invaluable, reducing installation time and preventing potential issues on-site.