What services does Zero Gravity Design offer?

Zero Gravity Design specialises in high-impact commercial interiors, delivering tailored solutions across Workplace Design, Hospitality Interiors, Retail Environments, and Landlord & Asset Enhancement. Their team provides end-to-end design services, from concept development and space planning to technical drawings, 3D visualisations, and project coordination.

What makes Zero Gravity Design different from other design studios?

Zero Gravity Design takes a bespoke and collaborative approach, working with a curated Design Collective of interior designers, technical experts, and visualisers. This ensures tailored solutions that align with each client’s vision, brand identity, and business goals. Their designs go beyond aesthetics to be functional, commercially viable, and future-proof.

Who is behind Zero Gravity Design?

Zero Gravity Design is led by Ashley Salmon, Founder & Creative Director, who has over 15 years of experience in commercial interior design. Ashley has worked with many of the UK’s most recognisable brands, landlords, and businesses to create spaces that enhance the way people work, shop, and interact.

How does your design process work?

The design process at Zero Gravity Design is structured yet flexible, covering Consultation & Concept Development, Design Development & Visualisation, Technical Design & Specification, and Project Coordination & Delivery. Each stage is highly collaborative to ensure the final design meets both aesthetic and operational goals.

Do you offer project management as part of your services?

Yes. Zero Gravity Design provides project coordination and oversight, working closely with contractors and suppliers to ensure designs are executed to the highest standard.

Can you assist with refurbishing an existing space?

Absolutely. Zero Gravity Design specialises in refurbishing and reimagining spaces — whether it’s a workspace transformation, hospitality upgrade, or retail fit-out — focusing on both functionality and aesthetics to maximise value.

Do you work with businesses of all sizes?

Yes. Zero Gravity Design collaborates with a diverse range of clients, from independent businesses and property developers to large corporations and landlords, tailoring their approach to suit the needs and scale of each project.

Do you work on projects nationwide?

Yes. Although based in Manchester and London, Zero Gravity Design works on projects across the UK, delivering expertise wherever it’s needed.

Can I see examples of your previous work?

Of course. You can explore their portfolio of workplace, hospitality, retail, and landlord enhancement projects on their Projects page.

Do you incorporate sustainable design principles?

Yes. Zero Gravity Design prioritises sustainable materials, energy-efficient solutions, and responsible sourcing to ensure their designs have a positive environmental impact while maintaining high aesthetic and functional value.

How do you ensure well-being in your designs?

Zero Gravity Design considers multiple elements that contribute to occupant well-being, including ergonomic layouts, natural lighting, acoustics, and biophilic design. Their approach ensures that each space supports productivity, comfort, and engagement.

Do you provide 3D visualisations and virtual walkthroughs?

Yes. They use high-quality 3D renders and immersive virtual walkthroughs to help clients visualise their spaces before implementation, enabling better decision-making and refinements early in the design process.

How do you stay ahead of design trends?

The Zero Gravity Design team stays at the forefront of design by continuously learning, attending industry events, staying informed on the latest commercial design trends, and integrating innovative ideas into their work.

How do I start a project with Zero Gravity Design?

You can get in touch via the contact page or call 07572 417095 to schedule an initial consultation. The team will discuss your project, requirements, and how they can bring your vision to life.

What information should I provide when enquiring about a project?

To help Zero Gravity Design understand your needs, please provide: project scope (workplace, hospitality, retail, etc.), size of the space, budget range, key objectives and brand guidelines, and timeframe for completion. This helps them tailor their approach and provide accurate initial guidance.

How long does a typical project take?

Timelines vary depending on the project scope, but Zero Gravity Design provides a detailed timeline during the initial consultation to ensure expectations are clear.

Do you work with tight deadlines?

Yes. Zero Gravity Design always aims to accommodate client timelines. If you have a specific deadline, they will assess how best to deliver within your timeframe while maintaining quality.

How do I stay updated on your latest projects and insights?

You can follow Zero Gravity Design on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay informed about their latest projects, industry insights, and design inspiration.

Commercial Interior Design: What It Is, Costs, and How the Process Works

Name: Zero Gravity Design
Address: Colony One Silk Street Silk St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6LZ, United Kingdom
Telephone: 07572417095
Price range: Competitive

Ashley Salmon
6 days ago
3 min read

In today’s competitive commercial landscape, the design of interior spaces plays a crucial role in how businesses operate, perform, and are perceived. From offices and workplaces to hospitality venues, retail environments, and mixed-use developments, commercial interior design has become a key driver of functionality, experience, and long-term value.

As organisations increasingly recognise the impact that well-designed spaces have on productivity, brand identity, and user wellbeing, the demand for experienced commercial interior designers continues to grow.

At the forefront of this sector is Zero Gravity Design, a UK-based interior design studio known for delivering thoughtful, design-led commercial interiors that balance creativity with practical and commercial considerations.

What Is Commercial Interior Design?

Commercial interior design focuses on the planning, design, and delivery of interior environments used for business or public purposes. Unlike residential design, commercial interiors must meet a wider range of functional, regulatory, and operational requirements.

Typical commercial interior design projects include:

office and workplace environments
coworking spaces
hospitality venues such as hotels, bars, and restaurants
retail and leisure spaces
landlord-led commercial buildings

The objective is not only to create visually appealing spaces, but to ensure they are compliant, durable, efficient, and aligned with how people use them day-to-day.

The Role of a Commercial Interior Designer

A commercial interior designer works closely with clients, stakeholders, and consultants to translate business objectives into functional and engaging environments.

Key responsibilities often include:

understanding operational needs and spatial requirements
developing space plans and layout strategies
creating concept designs and visual narratives
selecting materials, finishes, and furniture
coordinating lighting, acoustics, and wayfinding
preparing technical design information
supporting projects through delivery

The role is as much strategic as it is creative, requiring a strong understanding of both design and commercial realities.

Commercial Interior Design vs Fit-Out

Commercial interior design is often confused with fit-out, but the two serve different purposes.

Interior design focuses on strategy, planning, aesthetics, and user experience.
Fit-out refers to the physical construction and installation of the designed space.

Some projects appoint designers and contractors separately, while others adopt a design-and-build approach. Understanding the distinction helps clients make informed decisions about procurement, programme, and budget.

How Much Does Commercial Interior Design Cost?

The cost of commercial interior design varies depending on several factors, including:

project size and complexity
scope of design services
level of technical detail required
sector and building type
location

Design fees are commonly structured as:

a fixed fee
a percentage of the overall project value
a staged fee aligned to design phases

While costs can vary, commercial interior design should be viewed as an investment. Well-considered design can reduce construction risk, improve space efficiency, and enhance long-term performance.

The Commercial Interior Design Process

Most commercial interior design projects follow a structured process, tailored to suit the specific brief:

Brief & Strategy

Understanding the client’s objectives, constraints, budget, and timescales.

Space Planning & Concept Design

Developing layouts, zoning strategies, and initial design concepts.

Design Development

Refining materials, finishes, furniture, and lighting to create a cohesive scheme.

Technical Design

Producing detailed drawings and specifications to support construction.

Delivery Support

Providing ongoing coordination and support during fit-out to ensure design intent is achieved.

Not every project requires all stages, and scopes are often adapted to suit individual needs.

Why Commercial Interior Design Matters

Effective commercial interior design can:

improve productivity and employee experience
strengthen brand identity
support collaboration and flexibility
enhance customer or tenant perception
future-proof buildings for long-term use

In many cases, interior quality becomes a key differentiator — particularly in competitive office and hospitality markets.

Choosing the Right Commercial Interior Designer

When selecting a commercial interior designer, it’s important to consider:

relevant sector experience
ability to balance creativity with practicality
understanding of compliance and regulations
clarity around fees and deliverables
collaborative working style

A strong design partner should challenge assumptions, provide clarity, and guide projects from concept through to delivery.

Commercial Interior Design in Practice

At Zero Gravity Design, our approach to commercial interior design combines strategic thinking with design excellence. We work across workplaces, hospitality, retail, and landlord-led environments, delivering spaces that are functional, engaging, and commercially robust.

Our projects are shaped by a clear understanding of how spaces are used, how organisations operate, and how design can add long-term value.

Looking Ahead

As working patterns and user expectations continue to evolve, commercial interior design will play an increasingly important role in shaping successful environments.

Designers must respond with flexible, human-centred solutions that balance aesthetics, performance, and adaptability — ensuring spaces remain relevant well into the future.

Final Thoughts

Commercial interior design is about more than how a space looks. It’s about how it works, how it feels, and how it supports the people who use it.

Whether planning a new workspace, refurbishment, or commercial repositioning, understanding the role and value of interior design is an essential first step.

For more information about our commercial interior design services, please contact us today.