Found worked as Executive Architects, in collaboration with MillerKnoll, to create the brand’s first major international destination outside the United States. Spanning three floors and 1,700 square meters at The Sans, 20 St John’s Square, the space brings together retail and contract showrooms for brands including Herman Miller, Knoll, and Maharam.
A dedicated MillerKnoll Studio serves as a working showroom, bringing together the collective of brands, to showcase a unified approach for the modern workplace.
“We believe there is substantial opportunity to grow internationally,” said Ben Groom, President, International Contract at MillerKnoll. “The opening of MillerKnoll London is just one step we’re taking to offer an enhanced experience to our customers across the United Kingdom and Europe.”
Concept Design
Found were appointed at the inception of the project as Executive Architect, collaborating closely on the concept design phase led by design architect Vince Bandy. Working with MillerKnoll’s global architecture and development teams based in New York and Grand Rapids, Found played an integral role in shaping the early design direction.
Found attended weekly virtual design workshops with the design architect and client to co-develop the initial zoning strategy. Once the zoning was agreed, Found assisted with the development of detailed floor plans and circulation layouts, ensuring full compliance with UK building codes.
Our collaboration extended to the UK-based M&E consultant, working together to maximise floor plate efficiency and floor-to-ceiling heights, ensuring mechanical and electrical services were discreetly hidden to maintain a clean and cohesive interior architectural language.
Found also supported the definition of interior finishes, materials, and hardware, aligning with MillerKnoll’s global design standards while sourcing from UK suppliers.
Detailed & Technical Design
Following the completion of the concept stage, Found took full responsibility for delivering drawings for the CAT B fit-out up to RIBA Stage 4, preparing all technical drawings and specifications necessary for contractor tendering and construction.
Found worked closely with the full professional team—including the project manager, quantity surveyor, M&E consultant, lighting, acoustic and lift consultants, structural and fire engineers, building control, and principal designer (CDM)—attending weekly coordination meetings to develop the detailed technical design.
The fit-out was designed to meet both BREEAM Excellent and WELL Platinum certification standards, reflecting MillerKnoll’s commitment to sustainability and occupant wellbeing.
During this phase, Found also undertook inspections of the landlord’s remaining CAT A works to ensure alignment with the agreed specifications prior to practical completion.
Planning
To align with the project’s evolving needs, several planning applications—including advertising consent—were required. Found compiled and submitted these applications on the client’s behalf, ensuring all permissions were secured smoothly and efficiently.
Implementation
As the project moved into the construction phase (RIBA Stage 5), Found supported the client in reviewing contractor tenders and participating in interview processes alongside the project manager and quantity surveyor.
Throughout the build, we attended weekly site visits with members of the professional and main contractor to ensure the works were carried out in accordance with the approved designs and specifications. Upon completion, we prepared and issued final inspection reports, including comprehensive snagging lists.
Conclusion
The project has been very well received and is seen as “truly an exciting milestone for our collective” by Andi Owen, CEO of MillerKnoll. Found continues to develop its relationship with MillerKnoll and their collective of brands working on several other projects in the UK on their behalf.
Services Found provided for this project are:
Executive Architect
Concept Design
Planning Consent
Building Control Approval
Tender Drawings
Construction Drawings
As Built Drawings
Implementation
Photography: Alex Dormon