MW: Tell us a little about Surface to Air?

Surface to Air are Architects known for design excellence in the education and residential sectors. We are working on a range of projects, offering both consultancy and design services across the UK. The studio offers design quality, unique client interaction skills and excellent project delivery, we pride ourselves on having expert knowledge of the offsite industry and we use this to help clients deliver projects with both efficiency and quality in mind. 

MW: Describe what you like about your studio space and what makes it a great place to work?

The Surface To Air studio is definitely the most characterful I have worked in, the space makes for a positive atmosphere that helps staff feel comfortable which is something we value strongly. The unit itself is a simple design that allows for both separation and flow between the workspaces, the fact that we had the option to do this design ourselves is one of the factors that made us choose Met Wharf in the first place.

MW: What qualities do you like about the Metropolitan Wharf?

Aside from the preserved architecture which we, obviously, are fans of there are other admirable qualities in how the building functions as a modern building whilst maintaining the historical aspect. The staff who run the building are continuously developing the communal spaces and this is something that we, as tenants, appreciate. The terrace is another element that deserves attention; it’s a great space to get out on for a break away from your desk.

MW: How do you find the community within the building?

The community in the building is one that flexes to fit, by that I mean it is vibrant and enjoyable in the late summer hours out on the terrace, yet it is respectful enough to understand that everyone has deadlines and this is a place of work at the end of the day. The downstairs space has become a real destination and we only wish there was more of it!

MW: Why did you choose the Metropolitan Wharf over other locations such as Shoreditch or Soho?

It is a bit of a culture shock moving here from more corporate offices but it is easy to see why S2A came to the building; the location is ideal, the spaces are generous and the building provides real quality value in comparison to the more sought after areas of London.

MW: How do you and your people find the connectivity of Wapping?

For such a quiet part of London it is very well connected, it is just off a major road for those driving into the city and the stations, Wapping & Shadwell, have quick links to central as well as to the south, north and eastern parts of the city, I actually live in the SW postcodes and it’s easy and fast for me to get here. 

MW: How do visitors respond when they visit the building? 

I cannot remember the last time a client came to building for the first time and didn’t actively make a comment about how interesting the space was, it gets great reception especially if they get the chance to explore the communal areas of the building. When the restaurant was in the building it really helped with lunch meetings, hopefully we get that back soon.

MW: How do you find working in Wapping and spending time in the area?

Wapping is a small place in a big city, it’s got great charisma with a good selection of food & drink options, the pubs on the river are a real bonus. The area itself is really interesting, going for a wander between the river and the basins during lunch provides a welcome break from the computer screens.