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August 09, 2012

Inside Google's quirky new London headquarters (24pics)

Welcome to Google's new London headquarters. The 160,000 square foot development features cutting-edge design that offers a decidedly quirky take on the traditional office. Renowned interior designers PENSON were given the task of creating a vibrant workspace.


Surreal workspaces have tongue-in-cheek names such as the Velourmptious snug, a green, padded homage to the traditional British pub.


A space called Granny's Flat is furnished with chintzy chairs and fittings that wouldn't look out of place in an elderly relative's lounge.


The Lala Library hosts a giant semi-circle white sofa adorned with pillows, surrounded by arty and inspirational books.


Then there's Snug-lushness, a garish flower-print padded bench seat.


For those wanting to escape the office, the 'Hedge Your Bets' secret garden on the roof terrace affords stunning views of London surrounded by grass and foliage - all with wi-fi to allow staff to continue their work.


An area called the Town Hall allows seating for 200 people and features velvet curtains, exposed ceilings and a video wall.


The Market Square is a rustic cafeteria area.


Other quirky touches included a 'Padded Cell' meeting room...


...acoustic airlocks...


...the Flower Power boardroom...


...a Hobbit Hole seating area...


...and a Home Working area.


Employees are encouraged to have green fingers, with allotments situated on the ninth floor. Those interested can put their name on a waiting list to be assigned certified IPE timber tubs in which to sow their seeds. However, if someone does not tend their garden well, they lose the privilege and the next person on the list gets their chance.


PENSON founder Lee Penson says: "It's all about human beings and that's it. Think sunken snugs, comfort, fun, comfy slippers, squishy carpets, cushions, daybeds, nice fresh food, gardening, vegetables, health, visual stimulation, relaxation, exercise, fresh air and you'll get what it's all about as a HQ."


Google's new headquarters occupies half of the Central Saint Giles development near Tottenham Court Road, over five floors.


Hallway through to 'Micro Kitchen'


'Granny’s bedhead' boardroom


Door with 'Do Not Turn To Open' sign on it


Recycled jet fighter ejector seat


A meeting room


'Granny's Flat' seating area


A whiteboard in a seating area


'Hedge Your Bets Secret Garden' on roof terrace

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