Modern office development increasingly involves providing more than ‘somewhere to work’. Frequently it acts as the springboard, the stimulus for broader, bigger regeneration projects with a mix of commercial, social, educational and cultural uses. While private office tenancies form the central hub, the surroundings of successful developments blend attractive public realm with quality leisure and retail outlets. There is sympathetic environmental landscaping, and easy routes for walking and cycling that link seamlessly to nearby public transport. Overall the development creates a distinct identity, and a connecting flow within and beyond the neighbourhood. This result is not ‘just another building’; it is placemaking.

This report explores the changing workplace, and how offices have a growing, important role in urban design that transforms neglected neighbourhoods. We look at the four core pillars of great placemaking and the leadership, vision and cooperative partnerships needed to make mixed-use developments successful.

Join us for what will be an enjoyable and informative morning.