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Winners showcase sustainable spaces with a focus on future-proofing and inclusive design, contributing to the wider regeneration of South of England and South Wales city centres
The South of England’s and South Wales’s most outstanding workplaces have been announced, with British Council for Offices Awards going to six office buildings across the region. Held at The Coal Exchange Hotel, the BCO’s annual South of England and South Wales Awards Dinner celebrated the high-calibre of the region’s offices in terms of design, fit-out operation and sustainability, setting the standard for excellence across the sector.
The winners of this year’s competition in the South West region stand out for their occupier-centric design credentials, as well as their innovative implementation of inclusivity and sustainability measures. In its second year, the ESG Award continues to celebrate the achievements of offices which excel in responding to the sector’s changing Environmental, Social and Governance needs. The winning projects for the region demonstrate the growing importance of ESG, evidenced by the winner of Best Corporate Workplace, Calon, also receiving the ESG award.
The BCO Regional Award winners for the South of England and South Wales are:
The Best Corporate Workplace award went to Calon. The project’s framework for sustainability and innovation impressed the judges, particularly in terms of energy efficiency, for which the building achieved a NABERS 5-star rating. High-quality flexible spaces provide a new hybrid working area in the heart of Cardiff, adding to the wider mixed-use development scheme in Central Square. The office offers designated areas for collaboration, as well as formal and informal meeting spaces, providing occupiers with an environment that promotes productivity and interaction.
Receiving the Best Commercial Workplace award is EQ. With wellbeing initiatives becoming increasingly important in the office sector, this project provides ample opportunity for occupiers to de-stress. The building’s facilities aid this through the available workout classes, wellness studio, roof terrace and cycle hire, all designed to improve occupier physical and mental health. The judges also made note of the project’s sustainability credentials, with the design including low-carbon heat pumps and a unitised façade to optimise daylight and achieve a BREEAM Outstanding rating. The 200,000sqft building contributes to Bristol’s economic development, providing a high percentage of amenity spaces.
Halo was crowned Best Fit out Workplace, with the judges praising the project’s focus on inclusivity and biophilia throughout the building. Tailoring its approach to the client’s needs, Halo provides breakout areas and flexible workspaces, as well as spaces for workers to exercise, relax, and eat. The interior is finished functionally in a neutral aesthetic, avoiding the need for future changes to fit-out in line with changing design trends. The consideration taken during the fit out was described by the judges’ as a cradle-to-cradle approach, making use of durable materials, while providing a vibrant aesthetic. The project is on track for a WELL platinum rating showcasing the standard of its occupier-centric wellbeing initiatives and design.
Winning the award for Best Project up to 2,500m2, the Quad O2, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus is a small building with powerful solutions for sustainable, inclusive design. The judges were particularly impressed by the integration of technology, including wellbeing sensors and high-efficiency MEP systems. Despite its modest size, the project stood out to the judges for its significant reduction in energy demand and small carbon footprint, achieved through a ‘fabric first’ approach, due to the selection of materials which strengthen the building envelope. The project also incorporates elements of biophilic design and natural lighting to create an inclusive environment, catered to diversity and accessibility needs.
Building 3000 takes home the award for Best Refurbished/Recycled Workplace having impressed the judges by its proactive use of retrofit initiatives. The judges note that the visual aesthetics of the building’s workspaces were not compromised during the refurbishment, but were carefully considered, with praise going to the striking, progressive design. Encompassing the needs of occupiers and commercial requirements, the project provides a combination of wellness space in the form of a rooftop terrace, end of journey facilities, and high-quality office space. A central atrium serves as a focal point, designed to facilitate communal gathering.
This year, Plus X Brighton was the recipient of the Innovation award. The project supports the broader regeneration of Brighton, contributing to the sense of community with a publicly accessible café. The building provides flexible workspaces for start-ups and entrepreneurs, offering a solution to the challenges of office space scarcity in the area. Incorporating specialist hire prototyping labs and digital studios, the office provides insight into the possible innovations of future workspaces. The building has achieved a WELL Platinum rating.
Lastly, the ESG award was the second award to go to Calon. The judges’ found environmental stewardship to be at the core of the project, which attained a BREEAM Outstanding certification. Additionally, the project was awarded WELL Platinum standard, with notable occupier-centric technological innovations brought in to monitor air quality, along with the implementation of natural lighting into the design. The Judges complimented the operational net-zero initiatives in place, with the building’s solar panels and air source heat pumps providing 100% of the energy used onsite.
The South of England and South Wales winners will compete for the BCO National Awards on 8th October 2024.
The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is ISG. Category and Gold sponsors are AECOM and Troup Bywaters + Anders. The BCO awards are in association with EG.
Catherine Macpherson, Judging Chair for the BCO South of England and South Wales Region said: “The standard of these projects is admirable, providing us a beacon of innovation and great insight into the future of the built environment. With plenty of external factors facing the projects, the initiative and dedication to high standards did not falter. It is also evident that the move towards wellbeing is paramount, with all projects addressing an aspect of occupier welfare. The focus the winning projects put on inclusivity is a promising indicator of the future of this industry.”
Richard Kauntze, Chief Executive of the BCO said: “The BCO’s regional awards provide the industry with an excellent opportunity to foster collaboration and creativity. From Cardiff, to Guilford, the South West region has seen an outstanding array of high quality office space, designed to meet not only the needs of occupiers but also those of local communities. This year’s winners show how office design can meld stunning visuals with thought-leading, practical spaces. Congratulations to all the winners of the region and best of luck for the upcoming National Awards.”
John Wright, Chair of the BCO Committee for South of England and South Wales, said: “It is encouraging to see the high standard of office buildings being delivered across the South of England and South Wales. This region continues to impress with vibrant cities and ambitious sustainability targets. Offices have a vital role to play helping to revitalise town and city centres and the winning projects are shining examples of how strategic development and intelligent design can create spaces for communities to thrive for the years to come.”
ENDS
About the BCO
The British Council for Offices’ (BCO) mission is to research, develop and communicate best practice in all aspects of the office sector. It delivers this by providing a forum for the discussion and debate of relevant issues.
Established in 1990, the BCO is the UK’s leading forum for the discussion and debate of issues affecting the office sector.
Its members are all organisations involved in creating, acquiring, or occupying office space, whether architects, lawyers, surveyors, financial institutions, or public agencies. The BCO works to advance the collective understanding of its members, enabling them to work together to create more effective office space.
Media Contact:
ING Media
T: + 44 (0) 20 7247 8334
Northern Ireland’s Farrans Construction completed the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ building, which is part of the broader City Quays regeneration scheme – a £275 million, office-led project located on former docklands within Belfast city centre.
The three new City Quays buildings represent Belfast Harbour’s response to ongoing demand by inward investors and local firms for new Grade A office space in Belfast.
City Quays 3 is now home to global blue-chip businesses and local companies, which have access to collaboration and client interface spaces, plus on-floor terrace areas.
The BCO Northern Ireland Talk & Tour was hosted by Tim Boyle, Development Manager for Belfast Harbour, alongside Harry McConnell, Director of RPP Architects.
Following a welcome by Ruairi Dempsey, MEP director for HDR and BCO Northern Ireland Committee chairperson, Tim and Harry offered guests an in-depth look at the building, including its design features and sustainability credentials.
Attendees were then given guided tours of spaces occupied by two high-profile companies: global bank, Investec and life sciences company, B-Secur.
The tour showcased the fit-outs and high specification finishes that capture the corporate identity of each tenant, with guests enjoying the magnificent views of Belfast’s key landmarks both within the city and surrounding area.
Ruairi Dempsey, BCO Northern Ireland Committee chairperson, commented: “In the wake of the emergence of a functioning executive in Stormont, the commercial office market in Northern Ireland continues to develop and offer best-in-class office spaces, which can be seen in the quality of development and fit-out demonstrated in City Quays 3.
“Northern Ireland requires a nuanced and unique approach to development, and the strong leadership clearly demonstrated by Belfast Harbour, coupled with the intimate local knowledge of their team is showing others the way forward.
“Developing dynamic and resilient businesses coupled with attracting and retaining global players to our shores is a key aspiration in our development as an economy. Providing employers and organisations with high performing, low-energy and sustainable Grade A workplaces, whether through new development or retrofit of existing buildings, is a key part of this aspiration.”
Tim Boyle added: “We’d like to thank all attendees for joining us on tour of City Quays 3, a flagship development at the heart of Belfast Harbour’s regeneration into a place where global companies can call home.
“The fact that City Quays 3 is over 50% let – well above market norms – demonstrates the continued relevance of commercial space of this kind to local and FDI occupiers. We invite prospective occupiers to contact us for more information.
“Many thanks to our hosts, Investec and B-Secur, as well as Rhianna Harrup from the BCO events teams for her support in arranging the tour and on the day.”
The BCO Northern Ireland Talk & Tour event was sponsored by Belfast Harbour Commissioners and RPP Architects Ltd.
The next BCO Northern Ireland event is a NextGen quiz to be held in the Gallagher Lounge (above the Duke of York pub) in Belfast on 30 May 2024, in partnership with RICS. Although focused on bringing together the next generation of leaders, innovators, experts and industry leaders, it is open to all. The committee and local membership would very much like to welcome you there.
British Council for Offices researches, develops and communicates best practice in all aspects of the office sector. It delivers this by providing a forum for the discussion and debate of relevant issues. Membership is drawn from those who occupy office space, and those professional organisations and people who design, build, and manage office space. For more information on becoming a BCO member, visit this page.
Celebrating innovation workspaces, well-being, and sustainability at the BCO Northern Awards 2024
The North’s most outstanding workplaces have been announced, with prestigious British Council for Offices (BCO) Awards going to seven landmark office buildings across the region.
Held on Thursday 9 May at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower, the BCO’s annual Northern Awards recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and sustainability, setting the standard for excellence across the diverse sector.
The BCO Regional Award winners in each category for the North were:
Commenting on each of the winners, the judges noted:
Stockport’s Merseyway Innovation Centre has ambitiously transformed the old Merseyway Shopping Centre into a high-quality, shared working space that re-purposes vacant retail floorspace to provide a centrally located business centre. It provides office space primarily for start-up businesses with flexible offices to suit varying budgets to support growth. This ambitious re-configuration of the shopping centre demonstrates how such structures can be re-purposed with minimal intervention to create a no-compromise, low carbon and low energy workspace fully enabled to support businesses of the future and helping the town centre regeneration, adding footfall and critical mass to Stockport’s high street.
Drapers Yard, the winner of the Refurbished/Recycled Workplace category, has revitalised and repurposed the historic Kays Catalogue building into a high-quality work environment, supporting jobs and leading the way in biomedical science. Drapers Yards is the first development in the up-and-coming Temple District area to contribute towards improving connections to the wider city centre and surrounding communities. The team were commended for respecting the building’s previous incarnations, producing an innovative, creative space comprising a clinic, rooftop engagement space, GMP Pharmacy, production suites and high-quality workspace in a previously derelict building. By repurposing and saving embodied carbon alongside successfully delivering a challenging brief and complex design, the project was delivered at a difficult time, during a global pandemic.
Winner of the Fit out of Workplace category, co-working operator, x+why,at 100 Embankment, Salford, delivers an inspiring and unique space. The fit out spans the reception area, ground, first and second floors, as well as the roof terrace, and reflects the company’s ambition of creating community, collaboration and culture. Thanks to a true partnership approach to the project, combining a striking, outstanding design, quality finishes, social impact and sustainability, x+why has delivered a workplace with a difference at Embankment. Whether for start-ups in search of inspiration, growing teams seeking a supportive environment, or established businesses looking for a fresh start, x+why’s offering at 100 Embankment offers an impressive space where Salford and Manchester businesses can thrive.
The judges awarded the Best Corporate Workplace award to NatWest Group’s new Northern headquarters in One Spinningfields Square. The result of this extensive refurbishment has transformed the space into a dynamic hub for the banking group, providing its employees and clients with an exciting and unique workplace in the vibrant Deansgate area. The space celebrates Manchester’s rich industrial heritage featuring subtle references to the iconic worker bee alongside artwork by local creators.
As part of its transition into the new space, NatWest Group revamped its Ways of Working, crafting a flexible office environment which incorporates a diverse range of work settings. Overall, the space was celebrated for fostering an inclusive atmosphere that prioritises staff well-being; achieved through the integration of brand-new wellness facilities, a multi-faith room, designated quiet and tech-free areas on office floors, and an external roof terrace.
Globe Point in Leeds, which won the Commercial Workplace award, is a Grade A innovative office development, providing more than 40,000 sq. ft. of space over seven storeys. The healthy, flexible, workspace maximises natural daylight and is recognised with a BREEAM Excellent rating, WiredScore Platinum and NABERS 4.5 Star, which showcases its in-use sustainability credentials. Drawing on its rich ties to the industrial revolution, the expressive flat iron building with intricate brick detailing creates a bold gateway to the wider Temple masterplan. Judges noted the sensitive design overcame a number of challenges on a narrow, irregular site, close to the immediate conservation area. Designed to deal with the demands of changing workplace strategies, Globe Point raises the bar in terms of workspace quality, amenities, occupant wellbeing and sustainability.
The ESG award was presented to One Strawberry Lane in Newcastle upon Tyne, the new headquarters for national housing association, social enterprise and charity, Home Group. Comprising 70,000 sq. ft. of accommodation over six storeys, the project captures Home Group’s brief to create an office which truly represents the organisation and the people it supports. The building has revitalised the workplace experience following a switch to hybrid working, and the variety of collaboration spaces available are attracting both community and business, creating a flexible, sustainable, and inclusive workspace community that gives back to its city context. In all, the development provides more than 1,500 voluntary sector organisations with free workspace and event space. The judges noted that the project demonstrates how positive social impact can reach new heights; a workplace can make a positive impact, now and well into the future, if it is more than just an office.
Boho X in Middlesborough – this year’s recipient of the Innovation award – will be an integral part of the wider Boho masterplan, the digital, creative, and business quarter of the Tees Valley. With 60,000 sq. ft. of Grade A office space on offer, the development will provide a boldly designed environment within the area, supporting flexible and adaptable internal environments to suit new digital companies. The proposed building wraps around a central atrium providing a striking arrival into the building, with flexible floor plates allowing for the subdivision of the space for multiple tenants or a single user. A ground-floor shared café and workspace are positioned to spill out into a new urban orchard providing a high-quality contemporary landscape.
The new office building will also boast a gym, health studio, lecture theatre, rooftop bar and external terrace contributing to the positive health and well-being of the building occupants and distinguishing itself as the market leader in modern office space. Demonstrating how public-private partnerships can facilitate incredible transformation, Boho X aims to create a world-renowned, thriving digital and creative sector in Middlesborough, its communities, and the wider region.
Commenting on behalf of the judging panel, Thomas Bone, Chair of the BCO Northern judges, said: “Each winner of this year’s BCO Northern Awards showcases the very best of office design. These best-in-class workspaces highlight how innovative approaches to well-being, sustainability, and community engagement can produce truly stand-out commercial spaces that people are proud to work in.
“The North really is seeing some of the most exciting office development, driven by partnerships between ambitious organisations, local authorities and talented office design and build specialists. This was another stellar year, and the judges were extremely impressed by the high quality of entries. We congratulate the winners and those who were highly commended – and look forward to seeing the region’s office landscape continue to thrive.”
Jon Moister, Regional Committee Chair for the BCO, said: “The BCO’s regional awards bring together the office industry to celebrate the latest innovations in workplace excellence. This year’s winners for the North exemplify how workplaces can create a sustainable work culture, while placing employee wellbeing, social impact, and sustainability at their heart. Many congratulations to all the regional winners and best of luck for the upcoming National Awards.”
The Northern region winners will now compete for the BCO National Awards in October 2024. More details will be announced soon.
The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is ISG. Gold sponsors are AECOM and Troup Bywaters + Anders. The BCO awards are in association with EG.
ENDS
About the BCO
The British Council for Offices’ (BCO) mission is to research, develop and communicate best practice in all aspects of the office sector. It delivers this by providing a forum for the discussion and debate of relevant issues.
Established in 1990, the BCO is the UK’s leading forum for the discussion and debate of issues affecting the office sector.
Its members are all organisations involved in creating, acquiring, or occupying office space, whether architects, lawyers, surveyors, financial institutions, or public agencies. The BCO works to advance the collective understanding of its members, enabling them to work together to create more effective office space.
Media Contact:
Inform Communications
arron.eastwood@informcomms.co.uk
T: 07791653149
London’s award-winning offices provide inspiring environments for workers and surrounding communities with sustainability and occupier needs at their core
London’s most outstanding workplaces have been announced, with British Council for Offices Awards going to seven office buildings across the city. Held at the Park Plaza hotel, the BCO’s annual London Awards Lunch recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and sustainability, setting the standard for excellence across the sector.
The winners of this year’s competition in London stand out for their user-centric design credentials, as well as their creative implementation of wellbeing and sustainability measures. Heritage restoration and reuse were also recurring themes across the winning projects. In its second year, the ESG Award continues to celebrate the achievements of offices which excel in responding to the sector’s changing Environmental, Social and Governance needs.
The BCO Regional Award winners for London are:
Grainhouse was crowned Best Corporate Workplace. The judges praised the project team’s ability to overcome a series of logistical challenges, not least a complex layout which stitched together five buildings overlapping different boroughs and levels. With a café, terrace and library on the top floor, the building makes the most efficient use of space, while ensuring good levels of natural lights on all floors. The office delivers an inspirational working environment, drawing on the history of the existing classical heritage building. The new high-quality feature staircase at its centre sets the tone for the rest of the project. Testament to its belief in having provided a high-quality occupier experience, the developer, Hines, took over a third of the building as its new European Headquarters.
This year Best Commercial Workplace was awarded to 8 Bishopsgate. With a clear aim of adding to the quality, not just quantity, of offices in the City, the building provides a generous 75,000sqft of amenity space comprised of cafes, lounges and an auditorium with an impressive capacity of 200. A viewing gallery also sits at level 50, adding to the project’s civic offering. Providing unrivalled views of the City, it is open to the public free of charge. With a high level of build quality on display throughout, the facilities management suite has been designed to be visible as the beating heart of the operation, and was also commended for its accessibility.
BP London takes home the award for Best Fit out Workplace. The 20,000sqm of workspace creates a dynamic and energetic environment promoting collaboration and sparking innovative thinking. With sustainability as an imperative, the new office design offers an inclusive and nurturing ecosystem that celebrates diversity. The building not only successfully promotes the health and wellbeing of its staff, but also creates an uplifting experience for visitors, collaborators and communities.
Winning the award for Projects up to 2,500sqm, All Saintsis an exemplar of how an owner-occupiercan reuse existing building assets. Originally an orphanage which was later transformed into a hospital and then an archive, this is the fourth iteration of a building that has seen a lifetime of different uses. Successfully navigating the constraints posed by the 19th-century building, the project celebrates its character while establishing a creative and inspiring workspace. The layout offers spaces for both smaller team-working structures as well as practice-wide interaction. The judges commended the achieved EPC B rating, admirable in a building built primarily of wood and brick.
Receiving the award for Best Refurbished/Recycled Workplace, Tower Hamlets Town Hall brings together a number of the council offices providing an accessible and inclusive gateway to council services in the borough. The building is a new focal point of Whitechapel’s regeneration and consists of a restoration of a Grade II listed former Royal London Hospital building. With a nod towards the key eras of the existing building’s past redevelopments between 1757 and 1906, the design draws on the architectural character inherent in each to enrich the new internal environment. The new Town Hall brings a London landmark back to life and reinvigorates it with a new purpose.
The Innovation award went to The Forge, which followed a unique procurement route in championing design for Manufacture (P-DfMA). Digital tools were used to conduct research around performance and productivity. This not only informed the design itself but gathered data which will guide future projects beyond the site boundaries, helping inspire the wider industry. Sustainability is a key focus of the project, which was the first UK commercial development designed and built to meet the UK Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon standard. The final design consists of two buildings offering a generous and welcoming reception, courtyard space and quality amenity areas.
Last but not least, the ESG award was given to Sky Innovation Centre which has been tailored to the needs of a creative end-user. The judges were especially taken by the project’s ability to hold all components of ESG at the core of its design, from the feasibility stages all the way through to operation. The building achieved BREEAM Outstanding together with WELL Platinum, all while creating an inspiring workplace. Designed to accommodate hybrid working, the building promotes collaboration and dynamic interaction across its impressive range of sustainable spaces.
Angela Joseph, Development Director at Brookfield Properties and BCO London Judging Chair said: “Over the past year we’ve seen a surge of demand for high-quality offices. The 2024 London winners are leading examples of how offices continue to play a vital role for UK businesses and cities. It was a joy to have the opportunity to visit this year’s entries, each of which take a unique approach to creating stimulating spaces both for occupiers and surrounding communities. I was particularly impressed by the way multiple winners successfully weaved new technologies and building practices into pre-existing heritage buildings, demonstrating a new standard of reuse and restoration while raising the overall standard of sustainable office design.”
Richard Kauntze, Chief Executive of the BCO said: “The BCO’s regional awards are the perfect moment for the industry to reflect on the achievements of the past year, as well as to recognise the progress being made in driving forward higher industry standards for the years to come. From sensitively restoring buildings to providing state-of-the-art wellbeing spaces, this year’s London winners exemplify the strides being made in design and occupier experience. Well done to all the 2024 London winners and best of luck for the National Awards this October.”
The London winners will compete for the BCO National Awards on 8th October 2024.
The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is ISG. Category and Gold sponsors are AECOM and Troup Bywaters + Anders. The BCO awards are in association with EG.
ENDS
About the BCO
The British Council for Offices’ (BCO) mission is to research, develop and communicate best practice in all aspects of the office sector. It delivers this by providing a forum for the discussion and debate of relevant issues.
Established in 1990, the BCO is the UK’s leading forum for the discussion and debate of issues affecting the office sector.
Its members are all organisations involved in creating, acquiring, or occupying office space, whether architects, lawyers, surveyors, financial institutions, or public agencies. The BCO works to advance the collective understanding of its members, enabling them to work together to create more effective office space.
Media Contact:
ING Media
T: + 44 (0) 20 7247 8334
Scotland’s award-winning offices recognised as highly sustainable spaces that put people and communities first
Scotland’s most outstanding workplaces have been announced, with British Council for Offices’ Awards going to six office buildings across the country.
Held at the Grand Central Hotel, the BCO’s annual Scottish Awards Lunch recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and sustainability, setting the standard for excellence across the sector.
The winners of this year’s competition in Scotland stand out for their unparalleled drive to set new sustainability benchmarks, as well as for ensuring occupiers and local communities are at the heart of each development.
In its second year, the ESG Award continues to celebrate the achievements of offices that excel in responding to the sector’s changing environmental, social and governance needs.
The BCO Regional Award winners for Scotland are:
The annual Chair’s Award for an outstanding contribution to the property industry in the region, was presented to Graeme Bone, MD of Drum Property Group.
The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland, Renfrew, was presented with not only the coveted ‘Corporate Workplace’ but also the award for ESG. Built for the University of Strathclyde and designed by HLM Architects, the judges were hugely impressed that it sets a new standard in environmental and energy achievements, earning BREEAM ‘outstanding’. A pivotal anchor for future development, NMIS is attracting global manufacturers as well as bridging small innovative businesses with larger organisations in an inspiring collaborative space. Its commitment to sustainability, innovation and industry collaboration is quickly establishing NMIS as a beacon of excellence.
Parabola’s ‘1 New Park Square’, Edinburgh, designed by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, was presented with the award for Best Commercial Workplace. An 87,500 sq. ft. ‘Grade A’ office development, the judging panel awarded this building for its world-class arrival experience and openplan floors. Commenting that this is an exceptional building using high quality finishes andattention to detail throughout, the judges recognised its blend of natural materials and exposed concrete. The needs of tenants have been well understood with the provision of excellent health and wellbeing facilities as well as public restaurants, which have become an attraction in their own right. The panel commented that 1 New Park Square marks the start of the next exciting phase of development in Edinburgh Park.
Deloitte in Edinburgh, designed by Perkins & Will, was presented with the award for Best Fit Out of Workplace with the judging panel impressed by its drive to create an inclusive and sustainable workplace, making barriers invisible and fostering a sense of community. Home to 450 staff and occupying a floor in the new Haymarket Square Building, the panel appreciated the extensive staff engagement, which allowed Deloitte to deliver space with connectivity, flexibility, and collaboration at the heart of its design.
The Award for Projects Up to 2,500 m2 went to Statkraft at the Garment Factory, Glasgow, designed by Graven. A global renewable energy business, Statkraft has created a welcoming space for collaboration, bringing the outdoors inside, with sustainability at its core. Representing Statkraft’s values and Norwegian heritage, the judges were impressed that they had incorporated reclaimed, recycled and upcycled elements throughout, whilst respecting the existing characteristics of the existing building. The panel felt that Statkraft has created a unique space which is clearly loved and enjoyed by its team.
Eastworks in Glasgow, designed for Clyde Gateway by Sheppard Robson and INCH Architecture and Design, took home the award for Best Refurbished / Recycled Project. Preserving and reinventing a prominent structure from Glasgow’s Victorian industrial past, Eastworks offers five creative work spaces totalling 31,700 ft². The 94m-long, double-barrelled structure has been divided to create dramatic office space flooded with natural light with vibrant orange staircases and central mezzanines. The judges were particularly impressed with the community engagement and regeneration that underpins this project; transforming a vacant and derelict structure into light-filled workspaces that create future employment opportunities in the area.
The Scottish winners will compete for the BCO National Awards on 8th October 2024.
The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is ISG. Category and Gold sponsors are AECOM and Troup Bywaters + Anders, with Ryden as this year’s regional sponsor. The BCO awards are in association with EG.
Gillian Stewart, Chair of the BCO in Scotland, said: “Occupiers and communities, both within buildings and in their local neighbourhoods, have continued to be driving forces for developers, whether they are building speculatively or on behalf of a client. In the drive to attract people back to our cities, and to build networks within these buildings, we are seeing influence from the hotel and leisure sectors, as well as more focus on softer, people-centred elements.
“People, whether occupiers or the teams behind these developments, continue, rightly, to drive change within the sector. We are seeing recovery from the last few years in the form of exciting, innovative developments, and I feel optimistic that this will continue.”
Donald Reid, Chair of the Scottish Judging panel, added: “”Having spent several days visiting the very best of Scotland’s office projects, the judging panel again had some tough decisions to make. We have seen a continued focus on ESG, wellbeing and hybrid working, as well as community being put at the heart of the development process. Every year, the sector evolves and we see the highest standards of examples of fresh thinking and innovation, which makes the judging process challenging. I would like to congratulate this year’s winners for delivering exciting, future-proofed and sustainable offices to the Scottish market.”
ENDS
About the BCO
The British Council for Offices’ (BCO) mission is to research, develop and communicate best practice in all aspects of the office sector. It delivers this by providing a forum for the discussion and debate of relevant issues.
Established in 1990, the BCO is the UK’s leading forum for the discussion and debate of issues affecting the office sector.
Its members are all organisations involved in creating, acquiring, or occupying office space, whether architects, lawyers, surveyors, financial institutions, or public agencies. The BCO works to advance the collective understanding of its members, enabling them to work together to create more effective office space.
Media contact:
Lisa Mennie
Skylark PR Ltd
07825225414
lisa@skylarkpublicrelations.com
Sustainability, amenities and employee wellbeing at the core of the region’s leading workplaces.
The Midlands and Central England’s most outstanding workplaces have been announced, with British Council for Offices Awards going to five office buildings across the region. Held at ICC in Birmingham, the BCO’s annual Midlands and Central Awards Lunch recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and sustainability, setting the standard for excellence across the sector.
The winners of this year’s competition in the Midlands and Central England stand out for their ambition in combining user-centric design credentials with the creative implementation of wellbeing and sustainability measures.
The BCO Regional Award winners for the Midlands and Central England are:
The new Cambridgeshire HQ of technology consultancy TTP received the award for Best Corporate Workplace. Set amidst the rural landscape of Melbourn, the c.110,000 sq ft campus comprises three distinct, single-storey buildings shaped around collaborative working. BCO judges were particularly impressed with the largest of the buildings, the Hive, formed of a series of modular squares within a lattice grid of circulation. Occupants benefit from a mix of laboratory, flexible workplace and amenity space, including a restaurant and gymnasium. The building boasts a clear connection to nature with significant natural light and external views, while extensive solar shading and PV panels produce 38% of the campus’ energy requirements.
One Centenary Way in Birmingham was crowned Best Commercial Workplace. Judges commended the bravery and ambition of this speculative office scheme, which delivers 280,000 sq ft in the heart of the city’s new mixed-use district. One of Birmingham’s most sustainable buildings, One Centenary Way is all-electric, BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC A rated, and has been designed to WiredScore requirements for connectivity. It also has a fully demountable superstructure, enabling a circular economy. The building houses the city’s first public cycle hub for 450 bikes, with showers, storage and maintenance facilities, and provides shared access to high quality wellness suites.
Arup’s Birmingham office at One Centenary Way was awarded Best Fit Out of Workplace. The judges were struck by the close collaboration between occupier and developer in redesigning the building’s gas fire boilers to incorporate air source heat provision and smart gateways. Embodied carbon was minimised during the fit-out through a natural and recycled material pallet and the project is on target to achieve WELL Building Platinum certification. Arup’s approach to innovative smart enabling operating systems will also allow for minimal energy use in unoccupied areas of the building. The judging panel applauded the steps Arup had taken to support neurodiversity, wellbeing and inclusivity through a series of flexible workspaces.
Birmingham’s largest refurbishment project at 10 Brindleyplace was the recipient of both the ESG and Refurbished/Recycled Workplace awards. The scheme involved a complex back-to-frame refurbishment to connect two 20-year-old buildings into one single, open and connected floorplate, delivering more than 217,000 sq ft of modern office accommodation. The judges singled out this building for the ambition to pack multiple sustainable and smart features into the specification, resulting in several accreditations including two-star FitWel and WiredScore Platinum certification, and a 65% reduction in energy demand. The panel also recognised the strong focus on wellbeing strategies and amenities such as multiple roof terraces, a climbing wall, gymnasium and events space.
Rare’s Xbox gaming development studio in Twycross, rural Leicestershire, was the winner of the category for Projects up to 2,500m². The two-storey, net zero extension development seamlessly integrates 1,500m² of additional space into an existing campus, catering for more than 70 employees. BCO judges were impressed by the bespoke nature of the design which has been shaped around ecology, amenity, and sustainability, drawing inspiration from regional architecture and using local materials and suppliers. It has led to the development of a timber frame structure that connects with nature and maximises a range of energy saving and water reducing technologies.
Lee Jones, Partner at Quantem and Chair of the BCO Midlands and Central Judging Panel said: “The calibre of this year’s awards has pushed the boundaries of workplace design. The increasing focus on carbon reduction in use and during construction, and a true emphasis on the health and wellbeing of all who use workplaces, has been outstanding.”
Rob van Zyl, Building Services Partner at Cundall and Chairman of the BCO Midlands committee said: “These offices represent best practice in a post-pandemic world. Society has been forever changed, and with it the workplace of the future is emerging. In this exciting year when we look forward to the BCO conference in the region, these outstanding projects demonstrate what can be achieved by creative and dedicated teams who are delivering exceptional offices for the Midlands and Central England.”
Midlands and Central England winners will compete for the BCO National Awards on Tuesday 8 October 2024.
The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is ISG. Gold sponsors are AECOM and Troup Bywaters + Anders, with Overbury and Quantem as this year’s regional sponsors. The BCO awards are in association with EG.
ENDS
About the BCO
The British Council for Offices’ (BCO) mission is to research, develop and communicate best practice in all aspects of the office sector. It delivers this by providing a forum for the discussion and debate of relevant issues.
Established in 1990, the BCO is the UK’s leading forum for the discussion and debate of issues affecting the office sector.
Its members are all organisations involved in creating, acquiring, or occupying office space, whether architects, lawyers, surveyors, financial institutions, or public agencies. The BCO works to advance the collective understanding of its members, enabling them to work together to create more effective office space.
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The BCO Annual Conference provides a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with your peers old and new, and expand your professional network. We have a busy three days lined up, but there will also be plenty of opportunities to socialise, relax and enjoy Birmingham.
Make sure you’ve checked off your ‘To Do’ list:
What are you hoping to get out of the BCO Annual Conference 2024? Join the conversation online using #BCOconference #Birmingham2024
In this blog, David Porter – Head of the Manchester Commercial Office for Knight Frank and Vice Chair of British Council for Offices in the North – offers the lowdown on the region’s thriving office market.
2023: a mixed bag
According to Knight Frank’s UK Cities 2024, different factors, including economic difficulties, high costs, and conflict overseas, challenged office market activity in 2023. The result was a broad decline in office take-up, with investment volumes falling below average.
However, looking at the North on a city-by-city basis, there were some significant stand-outs last year:
So, while the overall outlook for the UK in 2023 wasn’t exceptional, there was definite cause for optimism, especially in the North – a huge growth area for commercial development.
It’s now time to turn our attention to this year, and look forward to a successful year for the office market.
What’s in store for 2024?
Businesses will continue to look through a ‘green lens’ when it comes to achieving environmental goals through their investment in commercial spaces.
ESG standards, including energy-efficient upgrades and green certifications, are vital for investors, occupiers and lenders. But according to Knight Frank’s latest research, approximately 79% of office spaces in the UK fall short of an EPC B rating, requiring upgrade work to avoid depreciation or obsolescence.
March 06, 2025 
By BCO Media 