Project: Fujifilm House – Bedford, UK (4590)
Architect: Ryder
Main Contractor: Willmott Dixon Construction Limited
Developers: Bedford Borough Council, Graftongate, Fujifilm
Installation: 2021/2022
Project Description: Two mirror pools at the entrance of Fujifilm House. A natural, oval pond called the Moon Pool in Fujifilm’s back garden
Challenge:
Fujifilm is an innovative international company that has operated in the UK since 1976. Due to expansion and growth, Fujifilm’s business premises of 39 years in Bedford was no longer big enough. The opportunity to establish new business premises 250 metres from their existing address presented itself. Ustigate were commissioned to design and build two mirror pools and a natural, oval pond to enhance the surroundings and to promote biodiversity.
Success:
The new Fujifilm UK headquarters called Fujifilm House opened in October 2022 with a traditional Japanese celebratory ceremony called Kagami Biraki. The ceremony involved Mayor Dave Hodgson, Minister Kyoichiro Kawakami, Roz Campion, Tom Watanabe and Duncan Edgar smashing open a wooden cask of sake to represent good fortune, harmony and new beginnings. Mayor Dave Hodgson also gave an opening speech and enjoyed a tour.
The new headquarters provides 30,000ft² of office space, dedicated workshop and exhibition areas; all set in aesthetically pleasing landscape with two mirror pools that naturally reflect images of Fujifilm House and a natural moon pool that invites all wildlife to stay and thrive.
The two mirror pools were installed with a GRP lining, their own individual water management system and linear strip lighting to illuminate their features at night. The Moon Pool was installed with a butyl lining, a bio-filtration system and planting to promote biodiversity on site.
