Gensler look suits lawyer’s office

Gensler has designed new London premises for Italian corporate lawyer Maisto & Associati that make a virtue of the small space through the creative use of partitioning and reflective surfaces.

The offices cover only 111m2 and creating a stylish, flexible and welcoming design to fit this size was the main challenge of the brief, says Gensler senior associate Enrico Carouso.

Maisto & Associati has two permanent staff in London and three partners jetting in and out from Milan. ‘It’s the smallest law firm we’ve ever done work for,’ Carouso adds, ‘but managing partner Guglielmo Maisto is a very stylish man [and] aesthetics play a huge part in his life, so the right environment’s important to him.’

The reception area almost has the feel of an upmarket hotel, with a natural palette of timber, walnut and marble. Frosted glass panels maximise the airiness of a space that lacks much daylight, according to Carouso.

A mirrored wall reflects light into the work areas, while concealing storage space and a kitchenette.