Fit-out specialist Overbury has been awarded a £13 million contract to complete the interior works for the BBC’s new creative base at the landmark Tea Factory redevelopment in Digbeth, Birmingham. The deal follows a competitive tender process that saw Overbury beat off rival bidder Heydon & Carr to deliver the high-profile project, which forms the final stage of the broadcaster’s relocation from its long-standing home at The Mailbox. Around 650 BBC staff are set to make the move once works are complete. Developer Stoford and main contractor BAM began transforming the derelict Tea Factory into a modern shell-and-core office building in early 2024. Practical completion of the base build is scheduled for December 2025, after which Overbury will take over for a nine-month fit-out running through to the end of September 2026. The four-storey fit-out will provide a suite of cutting-edge production and broadcasting facilities, including a TV studio and gallery, eight radio studios, ten edit suites, a radio drama studio, lecture theatre, and a range of apparatus, meeting and collaboration spaces. The works will also encompass full mechanical and electrical installations, raised access flooring, acoustic finishes, and the supply and installation of furniture, fixtures and equipment. Designs for the new base have been led by BBC Workplace, with project management by J4 Projects and cost consultancy from MGAC. Architectural and interior design input has been provided by AWW Architects and IDSR, while CMB is responsible for MEP design, Arup for structural engineering, and Ion Acoustics for the scheme’s specialist sound performance requirements. Once complete, the Tea Factory will become a key hub for the BBC’s operations in the Midlands, providing state-of-the-art facilities within Digbeth’s growing media quarter. The move reflects the broadcaster’s ongoing strategy to decentralise its operations and further embed itself within creative communities across the UK. Overbury’s appointment marks another major milestone for the redevelopment, signalling the start of the final phase in creating a world-class broadcasting environment in the heart of Birmingham’s creative district. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Fit-out specialist 8build has returned to profitability after successfully refocusing its business model towards faster-moving, fixed-price contracts and securing a strong pipeline of aviation work. The London-based contractor reported a £2.2 million pre-tax profit for the year ending 31 March 2025, marking a major turnaround from a £1.2 million loss the previous year. Turnover rose by more than a third to £167 million as the company shifted away from protracted pre-construction services agreements (PCSAs) towards lump-sum and design-and-build contracts that convert to site more quickly. Average operating margins improved from 0.6 per cent, though they remain relatively tight at 1 per cent. Cash reserves also grew 38 per cent to £19 million, with the company maintaining a debt-free balance sheet. Chief executive Nick Bellamy said that tighter bid discipline, streamlined overheads and a record secured pipeline had laid the foundations for another strong trading year ahead. “The markets, in our experience, have moved away from PCSA contracts and towards more fixed-price lump-sum and fixed-price design-and-build contracts,” he explained. “This has reduced the time period from enquiry to construction compared to the elongated PCSA process, helping to bolster our revenue for the period.” The company’s resurgence has been further fuelled by growth in its aviation division. While 8build has long maintained a strong presence at London City Airport, it has recently expanded its portfolio with new project wins at both Heathrow and Gatwick, reinforcing its position in the specialist airport fit-out and refurbishment sector. Looking ahead, Bellamy said 8build was well placed for sustained momentum, with £157 million of turnover already secured for the 2025/26 financial year and a £165 million forward order book in place. “Our focus remains on delivering predictable performance, maintaining strong client relationships and continuing to target high-quality projects in sectors where we can add real value,” he added. 8build’s return to the black marks a significant step forward for the business, reflecting the success of its fixed-price pivot and disciplined approach to operational delivery. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A MAJOR warehouse refurbishment and extension at Crayfields Business Park in Bromley has been completed by leading fit out and refurbishment main contractor Pexhurst, creating a new business hub with 30 self-contained office suites designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality, flexible workspace.  The multi-million pound development funded by Legal & General will be operated by FOUNDRY, with a flexible configuration offering spaces that can cater to businesses seeking smaller, adaptable units in the micro-enterprise and serviced office sectors. The newly named ‘FOUNDRY Bromley’ also provides shared infrastructure and flexible leasing for growing businesses – giving them hybrid spaces for light manufacturing, storage and distribution of products. The construction programme included a full internal refurbishment of the disused commercial property, a single-storey extension with a green roof, and a design approach that supports L&G’s ambition to achieve carbon net zero, including the use of low carbon floor finishes, green roof, solar PV and recycled raised access floor. Dan Beadle, senior contracts/commercial manager at Pexhurst, said: “The expanding entrepreneurial and gig economy fuels the need for more flexible and sustainable units, such as those recently delivered in Bromley. From food preparation businesses to furniture makers, many enterprises now require hybrid spaces supporting light manufacturing, storage, and distribution – with these businesses thriving on shared infrastructure and the ability to grow without relocating.   “Our latest project completion shows how we can combine new micro-industrial workspace development with a meaningful social value legacy. The business hub we have delivered gives smaller occupiers high-quality spaces that can evolve with their needs, but at the same time our community engagement has helped ensure the project delivers a positive and lasting impact for the local area.” While delivering works at Crayfields Business Park, contractor Pexhurst maintained an impactful social value strategy through a programme of initiatives benefitting the local community and environment. This included donations to St Barnabas’ Community Fridge in St Paul’s Cray, healthy eating sessions for site operatives, and ecological enhancements such as mulch contributions which support hedgehog habitats. One of the most celebrated initiatives was an art competition with students from the nearby Riverside SEND School. Inspired by themes of nature and community, the winning artwork was displayed on site hoardings during construction, helping to showcase local creativity and strengthen community connections. Adam Walker, co-founder at FOUNDRY, said: “With my partners Legal & General, we are beyond excited to bring FOUNDRY to Bromley. Our space offers startups and fast-growing businesses future ready, micro urban logistics spaces and workshops to grow. This could be an Etsy seller looking for their first space to move out of their spare room or an ecommerce company looking for a small logistics hub and office. FOUNDRY Bromley will provide locals with a business hub: an eclectic mix multi sector business, backed by community and business focused events.”  Earlier this year Pexhurst completed a similar scheme of works on Unit 21 at Crayfields Business Park, which saw more than 10,200 sq ft of office and warehouse space upgraded through the improvement of facilities and energy systems.  Gareth Bacon, MP for Orpington, visited Crayfields Business Park in September to view both FOUNDRY Bromley and Unit 21 – recognising the achievements in sustainable refurbishment and community-focused delivery.To learn more about Pexhurst, visit https://www.pexhurst.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Morris & Spottiswood recently completed a comprehensive refurbishment for Heathrow Airport’s Glasgow-based office, delivering a high-specification workplace designed to support modern working practices while reflecting the organisation’s identity. For the project, great use was made of the group’s inhouse specialists with Livingston Building Services providing M&E services, and the Morris & Spottiswood Flooring Division fitting the floor coverings.  The fit out of the Heathrow Glasgow Office followed a competitive tender process and began promptly after the contract was awarded in May 2024, with work commencing on-site in August. The location, which consisted of two-thirds of a floor within the office building, was previously an empty shell and required extensive reconfiguration work. A key advantage of Morris & Spottiswood’s internal capability is the level of control and consistency it brings to complex fit out projects. In-house M&E and flooring divisions ensure seamless coordination between disciplines, reducing the risk of miscommunication and delays. The M&E input from Livingston Building Services enabled quick mobilisation and design coordination at every stage of the programme. The familiarity with Morris & Spottiswood’s delivery standards meant that key milestones could be met efficiently and with fewer bottlenecks, while maintaining a consistently high quality of installation. Similarly, having a dedicated flooring division within the Morris & Spottiswood Group allowed for early involvement in material selection and planning, helping to align both budgetary and aesthetic requirements from the outset. For clients, these in-house capabilities translate into tangible benefits: fewer subcontractor interfaces, a single point of accountability, and a cohesive team culture across trades. This not only improves project delivery but fosters trust and transparency, essential components in building long-term client relationships, particularly in highly regulated or brand-sensitive sectors such as aviation. Craig Oxby, Heathrow Director of Business Services commented: “It’s been a pleasure having Morris & Spottiswood be a part of our project delivery team for our Glasgow office. They have brought together modern, innovatively designed spaces with practicality – delivering on-time to a high standard with excellent on-site communication. A great partnership model that has brought about a very successful outcome for the project.”  One of the most distinctive features of the office is a bespoke wall installation at the entrance, designed to subtly reflect the client’s aviation background. This installation features a large cut-out in the shape of an aeroplane, finished in fabric and allowing sightlines through the space. Additionally, specialist booths have been designed to give the look and feel of the interior of a plane, with acoustic baffles installed above them to provide effective noise isolation. Paul Beaton, Development Director at Morris & Spottiswood said: “Collaborating with the Heathrow team on this project to transform their Glasgow-based offices is something we are immensely proud of. Overcoming project challenges to deliver a superior space that acutely aligns itself with Heathrow’s brand identity, whilst also facilitating collaboration and efficiency in an office-space, is what makes this project so compelling.”  A crucial element of office fit outs is being aware and planning accordingly if the building is occupied by other tenants. In this case, there was an occupied floor directly above the project area, which meant a plan for noise and disruption mitigation was key. As such, high-impact activities were scheduled for the short window between 5am and 8am, outside of core business hours, and there was regular coordination with the building manager, which helped to maintain positive communication and address any operational concerns promptly. The project relied heavily on coordinated efforts between architectural, engineering, and construction teams, with communication especially critical given the client’s London base. To facilitate regular updates, the team provided consistent photographic progress reports, enabling remote oversight and decision-making without requiring frequent site visits. Daniel Pollitt, Heathrow Project Manager remarked: “Morris & Spottiswood have been a real pleasure to work with. Communication was excellent throughout the project, and the attention to detail from the site team was exemplary. Their transparent management of the supply chain gave me a clear understanding of all the connected parts of the project, and works were completed on time and to a very high standard, exceeding expectations from all parties.” For more information on Morris & Spottiswood, its fit out services and its projects, visit: https://www.morrisandspottiswood.co.uk/ For more information on the Morris & Spottiswood Group and its unique end to end service offering, visit: https://www.morrisandspottiswoodgroup.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

OP has been appointed to deliver the comprehensive refurbishment of accounting firm Cooper Parry’s new London headquarters.  Cooper Parry is relocating from their existing Holborn offices, having outgrown their current space as their London operations expand. Following an extensive property search with building tours across multiple locations and test fit studies, OP developed the full design concept to create their new London hub.  The office interior design consultancy will transform 18,000 sq ft across the fifth floor of the building at 5 Appold Street, Broadgate, London creating a dynamic workplace that establishes Cooper Parry’s expanded foothold in the capital.  The 9-week project will see OP develop a hospitality-led workspace that redefines traditional office environments. The transformation will evolve the existing space from conventional rows of desks with a large breakout area into a more dynamic, multi-faceted environment that balances focused work with collaborative opportunities.  Central to the design concept is the building’s unique heritage as the fondly-named ‘flower pot building’, celebrated for its distinctive terracotta facade that resembles a terracotta flower pot. This narrative became the anchor for the entire design approach, with OP weaving storytelling elements throughout the space, including the naming conventions and thematic choices such as the ‘greenhouse’ social area, creating a cohesive identity that connects the workspace to its architectural character.  The centrepiece ‘greenhouse’ social space provides additional collaboration opportunities while serving as a versatile venue for client events and company gatherings. OP’s approach prioritises retaining as much of the existing architecture as possible, reusing existing desks, meeting rooms and task seating while minimising disruption and waste. This sustainable design philosophy supports Cooper Parry’s environmental objectives while reducing the project’s overall carbon footprint.  The design incorporates multiple purpose-built zones to support different working styles. Key features include a welcoming business lounge positioned as the first impression for visitors and clients, incorporating flexible work settings alongside a sophisticated meet-and-greet area. A multifunctional training space doubles as a library, maximising the building’s flexible workspace opportunities.  Claire Stant, Creative Director at OP, said: “We’re rebelling against traditional office space and creating a hospitality-led aesthetic that combines the practical requirements of day-to-day work with an exceptional experience as you move through the space. Every space tells a story, and the design celebrates the building’s unique character while delivering a workplace that truly supports collaboration and growth.”  Jo Giles, Head of Facilities at Cooper Parry, said: “We’re delighted to be working with OP to create our new London headquarters. This move represents a significant investment in our  London presence and demonstrates our commitment to providing our team with an inspiring workplace. The design perfectly captures our vision of a space that supports both our people and our clients, creating an environment where our business can continue to flourish – a crafted solution to take our business forward.”  The project is scheduled for completion in October 2025, enabling Cooper Parry to establish their enhanced London operations ahead of their planned transition from their Holborn offices. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Building on their successful partnership, OP will deliver Techspace’s newest eight-floor coworking facility on St Andrew Street in London, marking their second collaboration. The leading interior design consultancy will deliver a complete strip-out and combined CAT A and CAT B fit out across 16,300 sq ft of workspace for tech entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The comprehensive sixteen-week project spans from basement to sixth level, creating flexible workplace suites and collaborative areas that incorporate Techspace’s signature approach to flexible working, featuring private offices, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces. Key features of the refurbishment include a reimagined ground floor reception and welcome area, a central cafe and social hub will be installed, featuring purpose-built seating areas and collaboration zones designed to encourage networking and community building among members. OP will maximise the existing windows to flood the new offices with natural light and views of London. The design will retain and enhance existing architectural features while introducing modern finishes and contemporary workplace amenities. The project includes comprehensive M&E upgrades, new lighting systems, and refreshed common areas throughout all eight floors. Modern end-of-journey facilities will be uplifted, and OP will install new secure bike storage to support sustainable commuting. Sustainability credentials are central to the refurbishment, with energy efficient systems, low VOC materials, and sustainable finishes specified throughout. The project targets strong environmental performance ratings while creating a healthy, productive workspace for Techspace members. The fit out will support Techspace’s established model of providing forward-thinking tech companies with access to premium workspace, high-speed connectivity, and networking opportunities in London’s vibrant business ecosystem. Stephen Parsons, Group Managing Director of OP, said: “We’re delighted to be furthering our relationship with Techspace following our successful delivery of their Old Street location. This comprehensive transformation represents exactly the kind of inspiring workspace that supports London’s thriving tech sector. The complete strip-out and redesign across eight floors will create a truly modern environment where innovation can flourish, while the fast-track sixteen-week programme demonstrates our ability to deliver complex projects to demanding timescales.” Paul Sandilands, Property Director of Techspace said: “We’re excited to be partnering with OP once again following the success of our Worship Street location. This latest full-building transformation reflects Techspace’s mission to empower the tech community with spaces designed for growth. By creating flexible, collaborative environments with best-in-class facilities, we’re giving scale-up teams the platform they need to innovate, connect and thrive.” The project is scheduled for completion in December 2025, with Techspace members benefiting from enhanced facilities and expanded capacity across the transformed building. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Located right in the centre of Birmingham’s prime business district, 81 Colmore Row, a Grade II listed building, has been fitted out by Thirdway on behalf of client Kinrise. Taking its design cues from the rich history and heritage features of the building, this 27,657 sq ft mixed CAT A & CAT A+ space offers unique, stand-out office spaces in the UK’s second city.  Heritage as a starting point  81 Colmore Row (formerly The Chatwin Building) was designed by Julius Alfred Chatwin and completed in 1862 – it was originally designed as a library, but instead became the Joint Stock Bank, and then Lloyds Bank. As such the building boasts many traditional features such as the Corinthian columns, and an arcade of arched windows on the façade. Taking these heritage features as a reference point, Thirdway aimed to create a seamless cohesion between the exterior of the building, and the newly fitted out interiors.  Rich textures and muted tones  The use of rich textures and muted tones, and understated lines allowed the heritage features to take centre stage. This is seen in the reception area, where dark natural wood frames the reception desk, and is crafted in a rounded shape, mimicking the shape of the arched windows of the building. This shape is continued subtly throughout the reception, as seen in the rounded furniture and even the light fixture. Focus on contemporary  While the design in part paid homage to the heritage features, it also had to deliver a contemporary feel as Kinrise’s brief was to create high-end, modern workspaces that would attract and impress the right tenants.  To achieve this, contemporary styling was used through with the placement of bespoke modern art prints, abstract sculptures, and brightly coloured furnishings that brought freshness and modern feel to contrast with the traditional architectural features.  An example of this is on the first floor CAT A+ space, where the welcome area features statement seating, adding a pop of colour to the neutral, timeless space.   Standing out from the crowd Thirdway’s challenge was to create spaces that really stood out from other premium workplaces in the commercial district. The fourth floor exemplified this ambition, with a full-service space designed with earthy tones and clean, modern lines to offer complete versatility; whether it was used for daytime meetings and client hosting, or as an adaptable canvas for evening events.  Enhancing this vision further, is ‘The Library’ on the third floor, which offers a contemporary communal workspace inspired by the building’s former life as a public library. Thoughtfully designed for informal meetings or as an inspiring alternative to open-plan seating, it features a striking gallery wall of modern art, brought to life with rich reds and browns that unify the space and encourage creativity. Flexibility for landlord and tenant To give ultimate flexibility for Kinrise and its tenants, Thirdway devised an adaptable floorplate that offered a choice of CAT A and CAT A+ spaces within the building.  Integrated in the interior fit out were larger fully-fitted spaces that allowed businesses to move in straight away, as well as CAT A floors that were ready for customisation, so that tenants could personalise their own space.  Thirdway also designed the second and third floors as CAT A+ spaces with smaller floorplates. These were designed to accommodate a variety of business needs, making them particularly suitable for smaller organisations or creative studios.  Each of these compact yet highly functional layouts included open-plan desk areas, phone booths, a tea point, a communal workspace, and a four-person meeting room, as well as a large boardroom. Design-wise they focused on enhancing the heritage features, while opting for natural materials and a gentle colour scheme. This blend of design and amenities ensured a versatile workspace environment which is adaptable and appealing to businesses of all sizes. “Having the opportunity to work on an important heritage building in the heart of Birmingham was a great privilege for the whole Thirdway project team. Delivering on Kinrise’s brief to create high-end, sought after contemporary, flexible CAT A & CAT A+ workspaces without detracting from the heritage features of the building was a challenge that we relished. We believe we have created something unique that will enhance the business district of Birmingham, bringing in new, dynamic businesses and occupiers,” said Abi Munslow.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Northern Ireland joinery and fit-out contractor Mivan has been appointed principal contractor for the Grand Apartments at 1 Mayfair, one of London’s most exclusive residential developments. The multi-million-pound contract sees Mivan take on work at the £2 billion scheme on South Audley Street, developed by Phones 4U founder John Caudwell. The eight-storey block is designed as London’s finest ultra-prime residential address, comprising 24 principal residences of up to eight bedrooms, alongside penthouses, townhouses, pieds-à-terre, and grand entertaining spaces set around a central garden. Amenities will mirror those of a five-star hotel. Mivan chief executive John Cunningham said: “Our appointment as principal contractor at 1 Mayfair reflects the confidence placed in Mivan to deliver projects of the highest calibre. These residences represent the very top of the super-prime market, and we are proud to be among the few contractors in London with the capability and experience to deliver residences of this standard in partnership with our esteemed client Caudwell.” The project follows Mivan’s recent handover of The Chancery Rosewood, the transformation of the former US Embassy in Grosvenor Square into a luxury hotel. Mivan was responsible for the fit-out of 144 suites, the Eagle Bar and the central atrium, working alongside Multiplex and developer Qatari Diar. Mivan continues to expand its portfolio, reporting a 25% rise in turnover to £74.3 million in 2024 (2023: £58.1 million). However, pre-tax profit declined to £966,000 from £5.6 million in 2023 due to higher costs. To support its growing pipeline, the company is recruiting project managers, a quantity surveyor, planner and MEP manager. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals