At The Blade, we’ve always believed that great office space should do far more than provide somewhere to work. It should help businesses connect, collaborate and grow.
Workplaces have changed dramatically over the last few years. Hybrid working means that when people do come into the office, they need it to feel a worthwhile use of their time. Office spaces need to encourage creativity, bring teams together and make meeting clients feel valuable and useful.
Collaboration is such an important part of life at The Blade. From our welcoming reception and business lounge to our flexible meeting facilities and impressive event spaces, we’ve worked hard to create an environment where conversations happen naturally and businesses can build valuable relationships.
Bringing businesses together
One of our biggest strengths is the business community that calls the building home. A range of occupiers have chosen to be based here, including professional services, technology businesses, pharmaceutical companies, engineering firms and ambitious start-ups. This blend creates opportunities for introductions, partnerships and knowledge sharing that doesn’t naturally happen in single offices.
A varied mix of events
Throughout the year we also host a variety of events that help strengthen connections between our occupiers, and into the Reading business community.
Occupiers regularly come together for networking sessions, wellbeing activities, charity initiatives and seasonal events – our recent Summer Donation Drive saw the whole building collecting toiletries, clothing, school supplies and long-life food for local families. Organisations also use our spaces for workshops, awareness sessions and community gatherings. Recent examples have included Domestic Abuse Awareness training delivered in partnership with PACT and occupier social events that bring people together beyond their own organisations.
These events aren’t simply about ticking boxes or filling diaries. We always aim to create a genuine business community where people know their neighbours and feel part of something bigger.
Spaces designed for productive meetings
Whether you’re hosting a one-to-one client meeting, bringing together a project team or welcoming delegates from across the country, having the right environment can make all the difference.
The Blade offers a range of flexible meeting spaces suitable for everything from informal catch-ups through to larger presentations and workshops.
For businesses looking to make a real impression, our Penthouse space provides one of Reading’s most unique venues.
With panoramic views across the Thames Valley, the space can accommodate networking events, or more formal presentations and roundtable discussions. Combined with excellent transport links and professional support and catering, it offers an inspiring setting for conferences, product launches, client events and business celebrations.
Collaboration beyond your own team
Sometimes the most valuable conversations happen outside formal meetings. Our shared spaces are an important part of The Blade with comfortable breakout areas, reception lounges and communal spaces giving our occupiers the opportunity to meet, exchange ideas and build relationships throughout the working day. And we also host a weekly Yoga session on a Tuesday evening – movement and mindfulness with a view!
Connected to the wider Reading business community
We work closely with organisations across Reading, supporting community initiatives, business groups and cultural organisations. As part of our connection with Reading BID we champion other businesses who have chosen to base themselves in this thriving area. We enjoy working closely with local charities, including our local food bank each Christmas, and support organisations such as RABBLE Theatre, who we sponsor and for whom we have frequently provided rehearsal space. These connections also mean that our occupiers get the chance to be part of a wider network, with easy opportunities to engage in local events and community projects throughout the year.
Creating a place where businesses thrive
Choosing an office is about more than square footage. In today’s business environment the right space is somewhere that helps your team perform well, gives clients confidence when they visit and provides opportunities for your business to grow.
At The Blade, we’re proud to have created a workplace where collaboration happens naturally.