Capturing more than just an office space
Union Commission
About the Project
In late 2024, I began discussions with Union Direct about creating a series of cards and an original artwork for their office. The aim was to capture the character of their distinctive building and create imagery instantly recognisable to their clients.
Union’s offices are based in a striking former church building on Inverleith Terrace, which the agency moved into in 2002. The building is bright and spacious, with the former church ceremony hall transformed into a buzzing open-plan office. With its stonework, wrought iron detailing, and dramatic windows, the building is a unique and inspiring setting for their work.
How the Project Developed
I visited the building several times to take photographs and study how the light interacted with the architecture. I focused particularly on the stonework, iron gates, and tall windows, which felt central to the atmosphere of the space.
After some discussion, we agreed on a package that included:
An original framed artwork for the office
A series of client cards featuring the artwork
A small edition of risograph prints based on the design
The Artwork
Although watercolour is not my usual medium, it felt essential for this project. Its transparency allowed me to capture the luminosity of the interior and the sense of light within the building. Over several months, I developed a large-scale watercolour painting, which became the central piece.
The completed work was then digitised for print production. Together, we explored different printmaking methods and chose risograph printing for its rich, layered inks and ability to emphasise the intensity of both the sky and the building.
The Cards
For the card designs, I drew inspiration from the building’s wrought iron gate at the entrance.
While a small detail, it is instantly recognisable to anyone who has visited and reflects the artisanal craftsmanship that makes the building distinctive. Because the cards are actively given out to clients, they provided the perfect opportunity to incorporate this feature — creating a subtle but meaningful tribute to the space in an item designed to be shared.
The project was delivered in full, with the framed artwork, risograph editions, and client cards all received positively.
It was refreshing for me to return to painting as part of my practice, and the process opened up new approaches to working with light and architecture.
The project was very well received, with many compliments on the final pieces and how well they captured the character of the building.
Let’s work together
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Looking forward to hearing from you!