Video game developer Lucid Games is relocating to a larger headquarters in Liverpool's Baltic Triangle to accommodate its expanding team. The company, which now employs 250 people, will move into a 13,192 square foot space within a refurbished Victorian grain mill, with the opening planned for November.
Key Takeaways
- Lucid Games is moving to a new 13,192 sq ft office in the Baltic Triangle.
- The move accommodates the company's growth to 250 employees.
- The new headquarters is located in a historic Victorian grain mill, blending modern design with heritage features.
- Office design firm Oktra was appointed to create a space that fosters creativity and collaboration.
Accommodating a Growing Team
Lucid Games has confirmed its move to a significantly larger office space, a direct response to the company's sustained growth. The team has expanded to 250 employees, creating the need for a new base of operations that can support its current size and future ambitions.
The new headquarters provides 13,192 square feet of workspace, a substantial increase from their previous location. This expansion is a key step for the developer as it continues to work on ambitious new gaming projects.
The decision to remain in the Baltic Triangle underscores the area's importance as a hub for creative and digital industries in Liverpool. Known for its repurposed warehouses and artistic community, the district provides a fitting environment for a company focused on innovation in the gaming sector.
Liverpool's Gaming Sector
Liverpool has emerged as a significant hub for the UK's video game industry. The city is home to numerous development studios, from established companies like Lucid Games to smaller indie developers. This growth is supported by a strong local talent pool from nearby universities and a collaborative creative community.
A Modern Studio in a Historic Setting
The new office is housed within a former Victorian grain mill, a building that retains much of its original character. The design, led by the firm Oktra, aims to preserve the site's historic legacy while creating a modern, functional workspace.
Key historical features, such as the original mill wheel, exposed brickwork, and timber floors, have been incorporated into the office's design. This approach creates a unique environment that connects the company's future with Liverpool's industrial past.
Oktra was chosen for the project following a successful collaboration with Lucid Games on a nearby project in 2021. The design firm's strategy involved extensive consultation to ensure the new space reflects Lucid's dynamic culture and brand identity.
Design Focused on Creativity
The office layout is designed to enhance teamwork and creativity. Different floors will be dedicated to specific teams, allowing for focused work while also providing spaces for collaboration. The design incorporates features like bright LED lighting to create an energetic atmosphere.
Nick Davies, COO of Lucid Games, commented on the importance of the new space for the company's future.
"With the growth of the studio over the last 15 years, it’s become important for us to now grow our footprint, but also to remain based within our roots in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle. Working with Oktra has enabled us to design and create a modern, refreshed, and expanded office space that reflects the creativity of our team and also matches the ambition of the games that we are currently developing."
Davies emphasized the practical benefits of the new headquarters, which will support the studio's ongoing projects.
"Our new setup will allow better collaboration, improved infrastructure, and importantly room to grow, so that our staff have a comfortable home where they can continue to produce their best work," he added.
Office Specifications
- Size: 13,192 square feet
- Location: Baltic Triangle, Liverpool
- Building Type: Refurbished Victorian grain mill
- Opening Date: November 2024 (projected)
- Employee Capacity: Designed for over 250 staff members
Strengthening Liverpool's Position as a Gaming Hub
The expansion of Lucid Games is seen as a significant indicator of the strength of Liverpool's creative and tech sectors. The city is increasingly recognized as a major centre for game development in the north of England, attracting both talent and investment.
The new office is intended to be an inclusive space for both experienced industry veterans and recent graduates, further strengthening Lucid's role in nurturing local talent. The company's commitment to staying in the city helps to anchor the local gaming ecosystem.
Andy Burke, Project Director at Oktra, spoke about the ambition behind the design.
"Designing Lucid Games’ new Liverpool workplace meant creating a space worthy of a city fast becoming a gaming powerhouse. We wanted the design to inspire, spark creativity, fuel collaboration, and showcase the energy of such an exciting industry. After deep research and thorough consultation, we landed on a dynamic space that matches the pace of the gaming world."
This investment by Lucid Games not only provides a new home for its team but also serves as a statement of confidence in Liverpool's future as a leading force in the global gaming industry. The move is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and further cement the Baltic Triangle's reputation as a creative powerhouse.