The Journey to Bottle Works: A New Home in Guildford for Oktra South

The Journey to Bottle Works 

Oktra South began in 2018 as a small but determined team operating out of a coworking space in Guildford. Back then, it was about building something from the ground up: a regional business with the same energy, creativity and expertise that Oktra was known for in London.

Moving into Friary Court one year later was a leap forward, giving the team a space of their own. Over five years, they worked hard, built strong relationships and grew into a thriving business. But as the team grew, so did their aspirations. The limitations of their old workspace became increasingly apparent: there wasn’t enough room, the environment wasn’t inspiring and the space lacked the flexibility needed for collaboration and creativity.

This realisation marked the start of a search for a space that could do more—a space that could inspire, support and represent what the business had grown to become.

Designing with purpose and collaboration

The move to Bottle Works was an opportunity to involve the whole team in shaping their new environment. A steering committee, including representatives from each department, ensured that every voice was heard, from designers to sales teams.

“We wanted the team to feel like this was their space,” Mike explains. “The steering committee went back to their teams to gather insights about what they needed, whether that was better screens for designers or quieter spaces for pre-construction.”

Design Director Daisy Sarson led the design, balancing functionality with a homely, welcoming aesthetic. The tea point was designed to feel more like a bar, creating a social hub where the team could relax and connect. “It’s not a corporate tea point,” Mike says. “It’s somewhere you actually want to spend time.”

From the maroon glass partitioning to the walnut finishes, the design took risks—and they paid off. “We wanted it to feel warm and personal without being too formal,” adds Daisy. “The result is a space that’s unique to us.”

Bringing the vision to life

At just over 5,000 square feet, the new office had to be meticulously planned to accommodate everything the team needed. Flexible layouts were key, with a mix of fixed desks, agile working areas and social spaces to support collaboration.

“We packed so much into this space,” Mike says. “It’s got all the functionality of a much larger office—meeting rooms, breakout areas, a boardroom, and even a pool table that doubles as a meeting table.”

The furniture selection was also intentional, showcasing a variety of styles and finishes that reflect Oktra’s expertise. This wasn’t just an office; it was a showroom for clients to see what’s possible in a workspace.

A space to support ambitions

The move to Bottle Works represents more than a new office—it’s a milestone in Oktra South’s journey. It’s a space that reflects their culture, celebrates their growth and supports their ambitions.

“We’ve designed and built something we’re truly proud of,” says Mike. “It’s not just an office; it’s our home, our showroom and the face of who we are. It’s a place where our team can thrive and our business can flourish.”

For Oktra South, Bottle Works isn’t just the next chapter—it’s the start of something even bigger.