Catella APAM has completed a 35,000 sq ft letting at Arlington Park, Reading, marking a major milestone in the Park’s leasing performance. A global occupier specialising in mission-critical technical services has taken full occupancy of Building 1240, a three-storey, Grade A office building. The transaction reflects the ongoing demand for
RO Real Estate is proud to announce a landmark letting at Silbury House, Central Milton Keynes’ most sustainable office building, as Fanatics Collectibles, which includes Topps Europe, a global leader in physical and digital collectibles, commits to a 10-year lease for the top two floors – totalling approximately 18,000 sq. ft. Topps
A new office in Blackpool, which will be home to over 3,000 employees from The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), has completed. The £100m, 215,000 sq ft workspace – which forms phase three of the wider £350m regeneration of Blackpool’s Talbot Gateway – has been delivered by nationwide placemaker,
The Oxford Science Park has secured planning permission for a new 80,000 sq ft best-in-class laboratory and office building, unlocking the next major phase of growth at the Park. The approved development will see the construction of a state-of-the-art four-storey building offering high-specification laboratory and office space tailored to the
Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor for the £180 million Fabrica development in Oxford, a major new addition to the city’s rapidly expanding West End innovation district. Set to begin construction in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will deliver five storeys of high-quality laboratory and
An office fit-out project by Morris & Spottiswood that incorporates modular construction and circular economy approaches has delivered embodied carbon savings equivalent to driving 45,255km in a large diesel car[1] – enough to circumnavigate the globe (40,000 km at the equator). The project to relocate Morris & Spottiswood’s own Glasgow
Innovative office redevelopment’s accreditation a first for Gilbert-Ash Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash, has welcomed confirmation its £29million office redevelopment on Manchester’s Great Bridgewater Street has been recognised as a ‘BREEAM Outstanding’ project. BREEAM is an internationally recognised standard for sustainability and to achieve this rating, the developer, architects
Aviva has submitted a planning application to transform 130 Fenchurch Street in the heart of the City of London into a striking 34-storey office tower, marking a significant addition to the capital’s evolving skyline. The proposal would see the current mid-20th century Fountain House demolished and replaced with a 146-metre-tall
Wolfe Asset Management Ltd (WAML) has today announced that the LEGO Group has signed a lease for 192,000 sq. ft. across three and a half floors of 76 Southbank. The LEGO Group will move its London Hub from Farringdon to 76 Southbank in 2027 and will be home to up
Orion Capital Managers and the Barbican have entered into an exclusive partnership agreement to showcase original digital moving artworks at Panorama St. Paul’s on 81 Newgate Street; a new 592,000 sq. ft office being developed adjacent to St. Paul’s in the City of London. The new partnership forms part of
Catella APAM has completed a 35,000 sq ft letting at Arlington Park, Reading, marking a major milestone in the Park’s leasing performance. A global occupier specialising in mission-critical technical services has taken full occupancy of Building 1240, a three-storey, Grade A office building. The transaction reflects the ongoing demand for high-quality workspace in strategically connected regional locations. Arlington Park comprises 365,000 sq ft across 11 buildings, set within a landscaped, amenity-rich environment. Over the past decade, Catella APAM has delivered a long-term asset management strategy, including seven whole-building refurbishments, a new amenity hub, and a curated occupier engagement programme. “This letting is a testament to our consistent asset management approach,” said Max Bingham, Asset Manager at Catella APAM. “Having acted as asset manager at Arlington Park for nearly ten years, we’ve created a community that supports modern business needs.” This latest deal rounds off a strong four months for Arlington Park, with over 68,000 sq ft transacted across 4 lettings and renewals – highlighting continued leasing momentum across the estate. About Catella APAMCatella APAM, an independent and market-agnostic asset and investment manager, has been delivering sustainable real estate solutions since 2010, managing £4B worth of assets across the UK and Ireland. As part of the Catella AB Group, we leverage our global network and extensive market knowledge to provide tailored, effective solutions across all market cycles to achieve remarkable outcomes for our clients. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
RO Real Estate is proud to announce a landmark letting at Silbury House, Central Milton Keynes’ most sustainable office building, as Fanatics Collectibles, which includes Topps Europe, a global leader in physical and digital collectibles, commits to a 10-year lease for the top two floors – totalling approximately 18,000 sq. ft. Topps Europe has called Milton Keynes home for over 30 years. To support the company’s growing UK footprint, accelerated by global digital sports platform, Fanatics, acquiring the company in 2022, Topps is moving to Silbury House. Silbury House underwent a major refurbishment in 2024, achieving top-tier sustainability ratings including EPC A, BREEAM Outstanding, NABERS 5 Star, RESET Air Quality, Fitwel 3 Stars, and WELL Performance Rating. The project has also earned nominations for Sustainability Initiative of the Year and Developer of the Year at the prestigious Property Week Awards. Topps Europe joins existing tenants Tickets.com and Scottsdale Lifetime Partners, leaving only two ground floor suites of 24 desks each available, in the flagship development. Topps Europe were represented by JLL and RO Real Estate were represented by Bray Fox Smith and LSH. Ed Davidson, Asset Management Director at RO Real Estate, commented: “With a 30-year history of investing and developing in Milton Keynes, the Silbury House project reflects our long-standing commitment to the city and our ambition to set a new benchmark for environmental performance. Central to our mission was prioritising sustainability at every stage, from design to operation, and creating a building that meets the needs of modern occupiers. We are delighted to welcome Topps, a global leader in the collectables market and a household name, whose decision demonstrates the growing importance occupiers place on sustainability, not only as a core business value, but also as a practical way to reduce energy use and support employee wellbeing.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new office in Blackpool, which will be home to over 3,000 employees from The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), has completed. The £100m, 215,000 sq ft workspace – which forms phase three of the wider £350m regeneration of Blackpool’s Talbot Gateway – has been delivered by nationwide placemaker, Muse, Blackpool Council, and contractor VINCI Building. Located on King Street, the highly-sustainable, seven-storey building brings DWP’s employees into the heart of Blackpool from out-of-town, driving footfall for local businesses and the hospitality sector. It represents the largest commercial workspace to be built in Blackpool town centre and is the town’s most audacious build since Blackpool Tower. Designed by Make Architects to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards and an EPC ‘A’ rating, the office also sets new sustainability standards in Blackpool, with: As a result of all partners’ ambitions to deliver a building as environmentally considerate as possible, the workspace has achieved an upfront embodied carbon density of 630 kgCO2e/m2. compared with 1100kgCO2e/m2 for a typical office development. Elsewhere, a range of features have been incorporated into the building to promote occupant wellbeing and wellness. These include open-plan working areas, meeting rooms, and quiet zones to aid collaboration and productivity, while active low-carbon travel is promoted through extensive ground floor facilities including cycle storage, showers, and changing facilities. The development also promotes sustainable transport due to its proximity (250m) to Blackpool North train station and a new tram interchange, as well as cycle/pedestrian routes. Significant levels of social value were generated by the building’s creation too. The project provided over 350 weeks of training, created nearly 300 work placement weeks, and facilitated over 50 employment opportunities for people not in education, employment, or training. An on-site construction skills centre also helped 16 young people from Blackpool who had left school to complete qualifications and find work experience in trades such as bricklaying and plastering.12 of the young people impressed so much on site that they found permanent work with sub-contractors. The Minister for Transformation, Andrew Western, said: “I am delighted to announce the official opening of the new £100 million Civil Service Hub, a landmark development in our commitment to modernising and streamlining government operations. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a centralised workspace, fostering collaboration and innovation among our teams. “It is a testament to our dedication to creating efficient and sustainable working environments that support the vital work of our public servants. It will not only enhance productivity but also contribute significantly to the local economy by providing job opportunities and stimulating local businesses. “I look forward to seeing the positive impact this Hub will have on our community and the broader public sector.” Alan McBride, Technical Director at Muse, commented: “Completing the third phase of Talbot Gateway’s regeneration signifies a pivotal milestone on our journey with long-standing partners, Blackpool Council, to revitalise this iconic seaside destination and create opportunities for local people. “By bringing over 3,000 employees into the heart of Blackpool, this highly sustainable workspace will stimulate economic growth, and dovetails with Blackpool Council’s aim to future-proof the town for generations. With further phases still to come too, our and the Council’s ambition to build a bolder and brighter future for Blackpool is being realised.” Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, added: “This is one of the most impressive builds in Blackpool in decades. It shows our ambitions to make Blackpool better for everybody who lives and works here and how we are transforming the area around the train station into a real central business district. “Local people have found work and training on the construction, while the boost of bringing 3,000 new workers into the town centre should be felt by many businesses. The new landscaped space next to the building is a lovely green oasis for the town centre and anybody living or working here.” The regeneration of Talbot Gateway has already delivered the 125,000 sq ft Number One Bickerstaffe Square council office, a Sainsbury’s supermarket, and a refurbished 650-space multi-storey car park, alongside extensive public spaces for the community to enjoy. A new 4 star 144-bedroom Holiday Inn hotel and Marco Pierre White New York Italian restaurant opened in May 2024, while a tram-train interchange linking to Blackpool Promenade opened in June 2024. Plans have also been approved for a multiversity campus for Blackpool and the Fylde College, bringing up to 3,000 students and staff into the area, with work expected to commence later this year. Elsewhere, full planning permission has been granted for a new £45 million, 82,000 sq ft office off Talbot Road – to be developed by Muse on behalf of Blackpool Council – which would be home to another 1,000 civil service employees. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Oxford Science Park has secured planning permission for a new 80,000 sq ft best-in-class laboratory and office building, unlocking the next major phase of growth at the Park. The approved development will see the construction of a state-of-the-art four-storey building offering high-specification laboratory and office space tailored to the needs of cutting-edge science and technology companies. Located at the eastern edge of The Oxford Science Park, the site is near the proposed new Cowley Branch Line, with a new station scheduled to open in early 2030, bringing direct links to central Oxford and London. Yong Shen, Director at The Oxford Science Park, said: “This is fantastic news for the Oxfordshire ecosystem and for the companies shaping the future of science and technology. This development allows us to offer more world-class facilities in an established setting that promotes collaboration, sustainability and discovery, further cementing The Oxford Science Park’s reputation as a leading destination for science and technology companies. My thanks go to everyone who worked on the planning application.” Designed with sustainability and community integration in mind, the development includes a 5.86% biodiversity net gain, extensive landscaping, improvements to the adjacent wildlife site, and enhanced cycle and pedestrian connectivity. Alongside 168 car parking spaces (25% with EV charging) and 104 bicycle spaces, the building itself will feature upgraded façades with anodised aluminium, high energy efficiency standards, and rooftop photovoltaic panels. The development will also deliver significant heritage enhancements. These include a public space showcasing archaeological discoveries and contributing to the setting of the nearby Grade II listed Minchery Priory. The unanimous decision by Oxford City Council follows extensive public engagement and marks another milestone in the park’s growth, following the unanimous approval of the 450,000 sq ft Daubeny Project in 2023. The expansion ensures Oxford remains competitive against global science hubs whilst enabling local communities to benefit from investment and employment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor for the £180 million Fabrica development in Oxford, a major new addition to the city’s rapidly expanding West End innovation district. Set to begin construction in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will deliver five storeys of high-quality laboratory and office space. Located on Botley Road, Fabrica is being developed by science and innovation specialist Mission Street and real estate investment manager BGO. The project is being hailed as a significant milestone for the UK’s science and technology sector, marking the largest construction start in the field during the first half of 2025. Groundworks and site preparation are already underway, carried out by Colemans, with completion of the building anticipated in early 2027. Fabrica is also set to break new ground in sustainability and social impact. It is the first commercial science building in the UK to target a BREEAM Outstanding rating, and it will become Oxford’s first Living Wage building—ensuring that all employees working within it earn at least the Living Wage. Colin Brown, development director at Mission Street, said: “Following a collaborative, positive procurement process, Bowmer & Kirkland will shortly take forward the science and innovation sector’s biggest construction start of 2025 so far. As science companies increasingly look to central Oxford for its extensive amenities and unrivalled transport connections—including the future East West Rail link—Fabrica’s delivery represents a major vote of confidence in the UK market.” The scheme is the second phase of Oxford’s Central Science District, following the recent completion of Mission Street and BGO’s Inventa project. The wider pipeline from the joint venture spans 1.5 million sq ft across Oxford, Cambridge, and Bristol. Neil Brook, group construction director at Bowmer & Kirkland, added: “Our teams approached this project collaboratively from the outset, allowing us to complete the tender process in just 10 weeks. We look forward to starting on-site at the end of May with a 96-week programme.” Bowmer & Kirkland is also supporting Mission Street and BGO’s District East development in Cambridge, where it is engaged under a pre-construction services agreement for the 23-acre science campus. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An office fit-out project by Morris & Spottiswood that incorporates modular construction and circular economy approaches has delivered embodied carbon savings equivalent to driving 45,255km in a large diesel car[1] – enough to circumnavigate the globe (40,000 km at the equator). The project to relocate Morris & Spottiswood’s own Glasgow office to new premises Eastworks, in the Dalmarnock area of the city, offered a unique opportunity for the business to showcase its full end-to-end service, drawing on expertise from the wider Morris & Spottiswood Group. With a clear focus on carbon reduction, the team committed to a circular approach, which included re-purposing existing flooring finishes and sourcing second hand furniture through partner company, Inspire Spaces. The reuse of materials has reduced the project’s carbon impact by 7.591 tonnes CO2e, which is a saving of 8.73% compared to procuring new materials and products. What’s more, the use of an innovative ‘plug and play’ modular pod system has saved 1.790 tonnes CO2e compared to creating a similar build-up using traditional methods – equivalent to flying 11,701km in short haul economy flights to and from the UK. The prefabricated pods are manufactured offsite, with all necessary cabling, lighting and services already integrated within the partitions, ready to be quickly assembled onsite and simply connected to a standard power supply. Various pod configurations are available, all of which are fully demountable and can be easily reconfigured or even disassembled and moved elsewhere should the need arise. This modular design vastly speeds up project delivery, with pods assembled in a matter of days rather than weeks, while waste is reduced thanks to the precision engineering and high-quality finish that can be achieved in a factory setting. “The pods have enabled us to deliver a high-quality fit-out within much shorter timescales,” Gordon Clyne, Joint Managing Director at Morris & Spottiswood commented. “In this instance, we installed a glass-fronted boardroom, flanked by two adjoining multi-purpose office spaces. The three pods were assembled and functional within four days – a feat that would have taken several weeks if we were required to construct and connect the spaces using traditional methods. “From work commencing on site in early January, to project completion at the end of March, this project has been delivered at an accelerated pace without compromising on quality – a testament to the efficiencies, both in time and carbon savings, that can be achieved by a multi-disciplinary service provider, such as the wider Morris & Spottiswood Group.” Decarbonisation has been a firm priority throughout the project and a Lifecycle Carbon Assessment (LCA) was undertaken by crbn solutions, another business within the Morris & Spottiswood Group that specialises in carbon reduction strategies. The LCA found that the project’s upfront embodied carbon was 93kg CO2e / m2 – significantly lower than the current 2025 threshold suggested by the UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard (260kg CO2e / m2) but also comfortably achieving the 2038 target of less than 100kg CO2e / m2. Oliver Connew, Associate at crbn solutions commented: “We viewed the Dalmarnock office move as an opportunity to deliver a flagship project that demonstrates our full service offering and incorporates the latest in fit-out approaches. The carbon reductions found in the LCA are a clear indication of this and reflect the careful decision making that has gone into every aspect of the project – from purposefully choosing a building that offers long term energy security, being part of a district heat network, to considering things such as the local transport facilities to help reduce travel-related carbon.” Drawing on the expertise of the wider Morris & Spottiswood Group, the project exemplifies the unique end-to-end service offering through its portfolio of nine businesses working seamlessly together to deliver a truly turnkey solution – including Lifecycle Carbon Assessment (LCA) by crbn solutions; architectural design and building warrant applications managed by McLennan Chartered Architects, who also contributed to the interior design alongside Inspire Spaces; M&E design and installation supplied by Livingston; materials supplied by Builders Station; flooring installed by Morris & Spottiswood’s Flooring division and bespoke carpentry details provided by Morris & Spottiswood’s in-house joinery workshop. The upper floor presents the Inspire Spaces furniture showcase and hospitality area for hosting internal and external events. Utilising this space, the new office was officially opened to staff at a celebratory event on Thursday 24th April, which was attended by George Morris – Chairman of the Morris & Spottiswood Group and grandson of founder George Morris – and his mother, Janet Morris. For more information please visit: www.morrisandspottiswoodgroup.co.uk [1] Total embodied carbon savings of 9.381 tonnes CO2e, with comparison calculated using an emissions factor of 0.20729 kgCO2e/km from the latest 2024 DESNZ ghg conversion factors: www.gov.uk/government/publications/greenhouse-gas-reporting-conversion-factors-2024 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Innovative office redevelopment’s accreditation a first for Gilbert-Ash Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash, has welcomed confirmation its £29million office redevelopment on Manchester’s Great Bridgewater Street has been recognised as a ‘BREEAM Outstanding’ project. BREEAM is an internationally recognised standard for sustainability and to achieve this rating, the developer, architects and engineers must think outside the box in order to create a truly sustainable project. In the UK, less than 1% of registered non-domestic buildings have achieved a BREEAM Outstanding rating. This is the first Gilbert-Ash project to have received this accreditation. Gilbert-Ash’s scope of works at the former warehouse site included the design and build redevelopment of an existing office building with the addition of two levels to form new CAT A office space over nine floors, including basement. As the company continues its relentless drive to deliver generational projects, a number of innovative approaches were taken throughout the work on Havelock House to ensure the BREEAM Outstanding rating could be achieved. From the outset, OMI Architects engaged with the BRE Green Guide and this engagement was followed through into the construction stage to ensure appropriately sourced products from the supply chain were selected. A deep retrofit strategy, included the installation of an entirely new façade system, developed as the optimum solution through the use of a whole-life carbon option appraisal, ensuring that, through the utilisation of the existing structure, the project retained 2,000 CO2e of embodied carbon, the equivalent of planting 10,250 trees. The offsite fabrication of the unitised façade reduced waste and shortened the construction time on site while the rainwater harvesting in the basement minimised the site’s water consumption. Gilbert-Ash Managing Director, Ray Hutchinson said this rating is further evidence of the company’s ability to deliver stand-out iconic projects. “At Gilbert-Ash we have delivered some of the UK and Ireland’s most iconic spaces and we are thrilled Havelock House is our first project to receive BREEAM Outstanding certification. “Innovation, collaboration and determination are at the heart of everything we do and this recognition is thoroughly deserved.” Gilbert-Ash Environmental, Social and Governance Lead, Michael Heron said everyone involved with the project is proud their efforts have been recognised in this manner. He said: “Over the years, Gilbert-Ash has garnered a plethora of BREEAM Excellent and Very Good ratings but this is a new level for us. “To achieve this BREEAM Outstanding recognition, we had to implement at least 10 minimum standards including an air quality plan, a building user guide, seasonal commissioning and the responsible sourcing of construction products. “It would not have been possible to achieve this accreditation without early engagement by OMI Architects with the Green Guide. Implementing BREEAM Outstanding will ensure resource efficiency and lower maintenance and energy costs over the structure’s lifespan.” Havelock House has been used in the UK Green Building Council document ‘Building the Case for Net Zero: Retrofitting Office Buildings’ and has achieved Wiredscore (Platinum) and NABERS 5* accreditation. Gilbert-Ash has a unique approach to construction, fit-out and refurbishment based on the belief that great buildings come about through hard work, inspired innovation and genuine collaboration. It is also seeking to attract the industry’s best talent to deliver landmark projects. To find out more about Gilbert-Ash visit www.gilbert-ash.com/careers Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Aviva has submitted a planning application to transform 130 Fenchurch Street in the heart of the City of London into a striking 34-storey office tower, marking a significant addition to the capital’s evolving skyline. The proposal would see the current mid-20th century Fountain House demolished and replaced with a 146-metre-tall building offering around 600,000 square feet of prime commercial space. The scheme is being developed in partnership with commercial real estate specialist CO-RE and renowned architecture studio WilkinsonEyre, with engineering consultancy Arup on board to deliver structural and building services design. Pending approval, demolition of the outdated 16-storey structure is expected to begin in 2026, with piling works targeted for late 2027. The development aims to respond to the shifting demands of post-pandemic office life, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, wellbeing and flexibility. Among the standout features of the new tower are two upper-level public spaces: a cultural and exhibition area on the 17th floor, and a public viewing gallery on the 20th floor, complete with an expansive outdoor terrace overlooking London’s Eastern Cluster. In addition to delivering high-quality office accommodation, the project promises an enhanced public realm. Plans include a new pedestrian route linking Cullum Street to Fen Court, revitalised ground-floor retail and hospitality spaces, and improved landscaping to create a more accessible and engaging street environment. The tower will be built with sustainability at its core, targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, WELL Platinum, and a 5.5-star NABERS rating. The project will also follow circular economy principles, aiming to retain and reuse materials from the existing building wherever possible. Whole Life Carbon assessments are currently being undertaken in line with the latest industry guidance. Stephen Black, Director at CO-RE, highlighted the importance of futureproofing office developments: “This project is about more than just creating a new workplace—it’s about reimagining what an office building can offer. From cultural programming and green spaces to cutting-edge sustainability features, we’re delivering a best-in-class destination that meets the needs of tomorrow’s workforce.” Though the site lies just outside a conservation area, it is surrounded by key heritage assets such as Leadenhall Market, the Lloyd’s Building and The Ship Tavern. As such, the design has been carefully developed to respond sensitively to its historic context while still delivering a bold, contemporary presence. Fountain House, built between 1954 and 1958, has long since outlived its design life. With poor environmental performance, dated interiors, and vacant office floors, the existing structure is no longer suited to the demands of modern commercial tenants. Earlier redevelopment plans were granted permission in 2014 and 2016, but were never implemented. Now, with London’s commercial sector rebounding and demand for high-quality, flexible office space on the rise, the scheme at 130 Fenchurch Street represents an opportunity to bring new energy, connectivity and innovation to one of the capital’s most iconic business districts. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wolfe Asset Management Ltd (WAML) has today announced that the LEGO Group has signed a lease for 192,000 sq. ft. across three and a half floors of 76 Southbank. The LEGO Group will move its London Hub from Farringdon to 76 Southbank in 2027 and will be home to up to 1,500 employees. The move is part of the LEGO Group’s global strategy to create world-class workplaces in locations with access to top talent in order to meet its future growth ambitions. 76 Southbank is a Grade II listed, 300,000 sq ft sustainable office building adjacent to the National Theatre. The building has undergone transformation and an extension, delivered with Stanhope as Development Manager, LaSalle Investment Management as asset manager and was overseen by Multiplex as the Main Contractor. Leading real estate agencies CBRE and JLL have been appointed as agents for 76 Southbank with Taylor Wessing acting as the legal advisor to WAML. 76 Southbank is the last significant work of Sir Denys Lasdun, the renowned brutalist architect behind structures such as the National Theatre. The reimagined scheme has been designed by AHMM. The building offers exceptional connectivity, six stations, including Waterloo, Charing Cross and Blackfriars, are within a 10-minute walk from 76 Southbank, providing direct access to the West End, City of London and Canary Wharf. Setting a new standard in low-carbon office design, 76 Southbank is targeting BREEAM Outstanding certification and NABERS Design Reviewed Target Rating of 5 Stars. The remodelling and refurbishment of 76 Southbank was carried out with the utmost sensitivity, ensuring that 80% of its iconic structure has been retained for future generations. Featuring impressive outdoor terraces spanning 50,000 sq. ft., 76 Southbank offers panoramic river views alongside biophilic landscape. A double-height entrance lobby provides a generous office reception, with a striking centrepiece staircase serving as a visual focal point. Kevin Darvishi, Head of Leasing at Stanhope said: “The LEGO Group’s decision to select 76 Southbank as its next London Hub underscores the building’s pioneering sustainability credentials and central location. Providing occupants spectacular riverside views, 76 Southbank is highly connected and offers best-in-class amenities. Securing an occupier of this standard reflects the building’s alignment with market demand for environmentally responsible and amenity-rich workspaces.” Chris Lewis, Managing Director, International Accounts, Europe, LaSalle Investment Management said: “We are thrilled to welcome the LEGO Group to 76 Southbank. This addition further reinforces the building’s position as a standout, centrally-located commercial property. The LEGO Group’s choice reflects the growing demand for workspaces that blend sustainability, heritage and modern amenities. 76 Southbank’s ability to attract such diverse, high-profile tenants underscores its unique appeal in today’s evolving office landscape.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Orion Capital Managers and the Barbican have entered into an exclusive partnership agreement to showcase original digital moving artworks at Panorama St. Paul’s on 81 Newgate Street; a new 592,000 sq. ft office being developed adjacent to St. Paul’s in the City of London. The new partnership forms part of Orion’s placemaking drive – having reached an agreement last year with the City of London Corporation to pedestrianise King Edward Street to create Greyfriars Square – which will become the Square Mile’s largest public square (measuring 3,000 square metres). The LED video screen, set to become operational in 2027, will run the length of a newly created pedestrian route going through the site, connecting Greyfriars Square and St. Martin’s Le Grand. The screen is 5.5m in height, spanning the ground and first floor of the building, and will be over 30m in length. The pixel pitch (density) of 1.2mm will make the screen one of the highest resolution public LED screens of its kind in Europe. To create a landmark arts and culture destination nestled within the heart of London’s iconic Square Mile, the Barbican’s Immersive team will curate unique creative content for the digital wall from the building’s completion date. This will be a series of exciting moving digital artworks for the public to engage with at a scale not seen before in the Square Mile. As part of the partnership, Orion Capital Managers will also become the lead sponsor of Barbican Immersive exhibitions held at the Barbican Centre each summer. The content will be original works of digital moving art, which can take many forms. This could work as one immersive experience or be multi-channel content. The screen will have the capabilities to showcase stand-alone digital artwork, but can also draw upon film, video, and performance-related footage related to Barbican programming, which will extend the Centre’s programme across the city. Aref Lahham, Founding Partner at Orion Capital Managers, said: “This partnership marries well into our wider strategy in the redevelopment of Panorama St. Paul’s; to create a truly outstanding office asset with best-in-class amenities in a prime location. The very best offices in the most sought-after European cities continue to benefit from intense competition among companies for top-quality, well-located space that offers something special to their employees. The new digital wall will represent something unique at the intersection of business, arts and culture with the curatorial oversight of the Barbican. In Panorama St. Paul’s we are determined to create an asset that represents an oasis within the bustling heart of The City. With the Barbican’s input, we aim to engage the wider community and further support the City of London’s vision of creating vibrant and animated spaces that complements one of the world’s most historic financial districts.” Barbican Immersive develops and curates exhibitions focused on contemporary culture, emerging technology and digital creativity. This will be the first time that the Barbican Immersive team has curated a digital wall in London, taking Barbican’s programme outside of the Barbican’s walls and into the heart of the City of London. Devyani Saltzmann, Director for Arts & Participation, Barbican, said: “Through this partnership, we extend the Barbican’s reach beyond its walls, bringing bold, innovative digital art right into the heart of the Square Mile, and supporting the City of London Corporation’s ambitious Destination City strategy. We look forward to commissioning works that challenge convention and redefine what public art can be, offering the City’s residents, workers and visitors thought-provoking works that ignite joy and spark meaningful conversations about the world in all its complexity.” Leading cultural placemaking agency Futurecity played a key role in brokering the partnership as part of its Cultural Strategy for 81 Newgate Street. Panorama St Paul’s was designed by international architecture firm Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
