The update responds to challenges emerging from the pandemic and the accelerating need for the built environment to respond to climate change. The update advises designers how to create healthier offices that support changing working patterns, while reducing carbon emissions.
New recommendations include:
Adoption of 10m2 space-per-person
Minimum sustainability target of BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and 5 Star NABERS UK target for new buildings
Aspirational targets for operational and embodied carbon use to meet NZC (Net Zero Carbon) goals
Increased levels of outdoor air supply
More efficient lighting installations
Reduced power and cooling loads
Higher performance facades
More flexibility in the range of structural spans for office space
Reflecting the world of hybrid work
The BCO has updated its guidance on space allowed for each employee when designing a speculative office building. 10m2 per person is recommended as the occupancy density design standard for general workspace. The former high occupancy density allowance of 8m2 per person has been redefined as a special use case for exceptional cases.
Designing for the 10 m2 per person occupancy density provides greater scope for the variety of workplace settings needed to support hybrid working. It also avoids overdesign of core services, improves floorplate efficiencies, and minimises carbon emissions.
The effect of changing technology
The greater use of low-powered tablets, laptops, and smart phones, plus growth of cloud computing has allowed a reduction in small power load allowances 100 W to 60 W per person. This reduces the heat generated in the office space, which in turn reduces the cooling needed.
Supporting the office sector to achieve net zero carbon
Many developers already target BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ for new offices. Reflecting the rapid progress in the sector in adopting more demanding sustainability targets, the Guide is moving its minimum BREEAM target rating from ‘Very Good’ to ‘Excellent’, and introduces the latest building certification standard, NABERS UK – an energy performance rating relying on measured energy use. The update recommends targeting a 5-star NABERS UK rating for new building design.
Market trends have fuelled a desire to create flexible, relatively column-free, open-plan offices. However, the structural solutions needed can be carbon intensive. The 2023 update to the Guide aids the future adoption of alternative structural materials such as timber by adding smaller 6.0 and 7.5 m spans to the recommended range. This wider range provides designers with more options to minimise the embodied carbon of the structure.
The selection of high-performance facades, lighting and building services systems should also be made with net zero targets in mind, prioritising energy efficiency.
Richard Kauntze, Chief Executive of the BCO, said: “The BCO Guide to Specification often described as the ‘design bible’ for the office sector is an essential resource for the decision makers who invest in, develop or design millions of square feet of office space every year. The 2023 Update will drive the decarbonisation of the office sector, enacting change to help the industry deliver on the UK’s net zero by 2050 target. This new guidance for the highest-quality offices introduces more generous space standards and greater design flexibility to support wellbeing and sustainability as the office sector adapts to the world of hybrid work.”
Neil Pennell, Chair of the BCO’s Technical Affairs Committee and Head of Design Innovation and Property Solutions at Landsec, said: “The BCO’s new guidance reflects changes in design thinking since 2019 driven by Net Zero Carbon targets, increased hybrid working post COVID-19, changes in regulations and improvements in equipment performance. There is a clear imperative to adopt a whole-building approach to decarbonise the sector which needs to start with the design and specification of new and refurbished office space. Developed in collaboration with the UK’s leading experts, the BCO Guide to Specification gives clear advice on how operational and embodied carbon can be reduced without compromising the need to provide flexible office space that meets the needs of occupiers and helps them to conduct their business in safe, healthy, comfortable and productive workspaces.”
The BCO Guide to Specification update has been developed in consultation with experts from across the industry, including agents, investors, occupiers, and developers.
–ENDS-
About the BCO
The British Council for Offices (BCO) is the UK’s leading member organisation representing the interests of all those who occupy, design, build, own or manage offices in the UK. The BCO leads on thought leadership and best practice in all issues related to the creation and use of office space – through its research, awards, conference and events programmes. You can learn more about the BCO at www.bco.org.uk.
On 26 January, The BCO NextGens in London were delighted and inspired by the exclusive talk and tour of One Exchange Square for PNB, LaSalle and M3 Consulting.
One Exchange Square involves the creation of 420,000 sq ft of high-quality workspace and 20,000 sq ft of retail, while retaining 90% of the existing structure, keeping the carbon impact as low as possible. The design will see a total of 17,000 sq ft of planted terraces created, with access to nature from every level for all occupants. The project is targeting BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Platinum and aspires to be one of the first registered refurbishment projects in the UK to achieve NABERS UK DfP 5 Stars Rating at Design Stage. The building will have 50% less embodied carbon than a typical office building of a comparable size and exceed the Greater London Authority’s carbon targets.
Following the first of many exciting events to take place in 2023, we caught up with Snr. Project Architect and NextGen committee member Ben Simpson of Fletcher Priest Architects who lead the tour. Here’s what he had to say:
If you were to start this project today, would you do anything differently?
As this scheme won’t come to market until 2025, the brief is current and forward-thinking, so I predict One Exchange Square would remain similar. Due to our (Fletcher Priest Architect’s) work across the wider Broadgate Exchange we also had a thorough understanding of the bones of the building so the design can suit. On reflection, establishing a material passport for the materials removed due to demolition would have been a further addition to the circular economy, although we are reusing 90% of the existing structure.
What was the most challenging question you had to answer after the tour?
I hope those who had questions felt they were answered sufficiently. The most challenging question was probably technical: “What was the tipping point between double-glazed units and triple-glazed units considering the uplift in cost?”. For us this was an easy one – our digital twin model told us conclusively that the glazing upgrade to triple-glazing and the thermal efficiencies would provide a significant uplift to our DFP Naber’s rating. The client saw this as a no-brainer and chose the most sustainable path.
How does One Exchange Square play a role within this year’s BCO NextGen Focus Areas?
This year’s focus areas: The Circular Office, Social Equity & Hospitality’s role within the office are all addressed at One Exchange Square. We retained 90% of the structure and reused materials where possible. We significantly upgraded the accessibility of the building and the wider site by providing equitable access throughout the building and a significant amenity offer across multiple levels took design inspiration from the hospitality sector. Watch this space for more on that.
What are you most proud of about this scheme?
I’m proud of the team’s drive to produce a sustainable building when the market’s current inflationary pressures are significant. Having sustainability at the heart of the design from the outset has meant decisions can be benchmarked against this criteria. Personally, I’m proud to have been a part of the team from the outset as we transition onto site and look forward to another tour after PC.
We are pleased to see that delegates have been quick to secure tickets now that bookings for the 2023 Annual Conference have opened to both BCO members and non-members. If you are planning on joining us in Dublin this year, we strongly encourage you to book sooner rather than later.
This year’s discussions will hear from leading voices that will bring to light the perspectives of both investors and occupiers to explore the challenges and opportunities ahead. Seminars will provide a forum for more intimate analysis of the future BCO research agenda and how to address the key issues that the office sector face.
Join the debate on how to create inspiring places that foster a healthy and sustainable work future, and an office sector that plays a vital role in supporting resilient and dynamic cities. Read more.
TOURS
Our 2023 tours will incorporate the headquarters of some of the most innovative global companies, and the opportunity to discover the city’s rich architectural heritage.
There are currently 12 options to choose between, from the 34,000 square metre human-centric Microsoft One Campus, to the ‘Near-Zero Energy’ Trinity Business School, or the vibrant large scale urban regeneration success that is The North and South Docks – there are plenty of tours to inspire. Be sure to secure your top tour choices. View the full list.
CYCLE CHALLENGE
This year’s cycle challenge, in support of the Samaritans, will take place from Sunday 4 to Wednesday 7 June. The ride will depart on Monday morning from Kenmare Bay, County Kerry, and head through some breathtaking scenery. Riders will take in all that the Emerald Isle has to offer with a High Pass, lush green pastures, a ferry crossing, and part of the Wild Atlantic Way, before heading East through the rolling countryside and reaching Dublin on the Wednesday afternoon, where ice cold beer awaits! Further details.
GOLF CUP
Join us on Wednesday 7 June at Carton House to play the O’Meara course, a lush Irish parkland designed by the winner of both The Open and The Masters in 1998.
The Par-73 layout is designed to challenge golfers of all abilities whilst bringing the beauty and history of the Carton House estate to the fore, with many natural hazards, such as the River Rye and ancient woodlands.
Lough Ennell is located just outside the beautiful town of Mullingar, County Westmeath, and is a well-loved retreat for anglers and all those seeking rural tranquillity within easy reach of the bright lights of the capital. The Lough is renowned for its wild brown trout, remarkable in shape and colour, with their strong fight attracting anglers of all skill levels from around the world. Details here.
#BCOconference | #Dublin2023
Follow the BCO NextGen North committee on LinkedIn:
We know it’s not easy to win a BCO Award. The submission requires effort, precision, time, teamwork and skill. Each year entrants need to beat stiff competition, but when they finally get to hold one of the coveted BCO trophies, they can do so safe in the knowledge that they have achieved something outstanding.
Winning a BCO trophy is something that every team member can be proud of and boast about. It provides a focus for others to study, appreciate, and aspire to in their own projects and workplaces.
If you haven’t done so already, make sure to download the 2023 Entry Guideand register for our awards competition at www.bcoawards.co.uk. You can save and return to your entry at any point before submitting.
Closing deadline for entries is Friday 25 November 2022 @5pm.
With thanks to our Platinum Sponsor and Media Partner for the BCO Awards 2023
Questions If you have any questions about the BCO Awards or if you need help with your entry, please email Clare Hollick at Createvents clare@createvents.co.uk or call 01183 340085.
By:
Mike Burton, BCO National Awards Judging Chair 2023
It’s not easy to win a BCO Award: to demonstrate why your project is excellent, your submission requires effort, precision, time, teamwork, and skill – as was required to deliver your development.
And it’s that demanding process that ensures that only special projects even apply, only extra special projects get nominated, and only excellent projects win an Award. So, it really is an outstanding achievement to get hold of one of the coveted BCO golden bricks. It’s so much more than a brilliant night out with great company.
The BCO exists to research, develop, and communicate best practice in all aspects of the office sector. We define excellence in office space, and BCO Award winners are the real-world examples of that. An Award is a celebration of outstanding achievement, that every team member can be proud of and boast about. It provides a focus for others to study, appreciate, and aspire to in their own projects and workplaces.
Winning a BCO Award spreads the word regionally, nationally, and globally. Winning projects are written about in the business, local and national media and we run tours for the winners so visitors can admire and learn from what they see.
Award evolution
Just like the entrants, the BCO Awards, the categories, and the criteria used to determine a winner evolves to reflect what’s happening in the industry and the wider world. When the BCO Awards started in 1992 winners were those that displayed excellence across the board. In 2000 and 2001 the distinct categories we use today were created and the following year Regional Awards began. Three more Awards were added up to 2011 – Presidents, Innovation, and Test of Time. And in 2023 we have added the Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Award.
That this is the first new category for 12 years highlights the significance of this new Award and our recognition of the challenge that confronts us. The property industry is at the forefront of tackling the climate emergency and our provision of healthier sustainable workplaces is critical for the planet’s future.
The Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) Award
The ESG award will go to a project which has had a game changing influence on the environment. It will recognise social value and the true impact a building has on its users and surroundings. We will examine the role of governance and creditability; we want to find out how energy and water usage has been significantly reduced; and we will celebrate sustainability.
The ESG Regional Award winners will be chosen by the regional judges from the other categories and will go on to compete for the National Award. The judges will be looking at the hard facts. Projects will be assessed and scored on the actual achievements and the proof that they are making a difference. There won’t be any greenwashing – an ESG winner will have made a tangible step to tackling the climate emergency.
The judges will require evidence of the results of your sustainable measures. These include:
What economic and social initiatives have you adopted and how have you measured them?
How have you improved biodiversity and urban greening?
What considerations have been made for circular economy value?
Environmental certificates.
What is the project’s up front and whole life embodied carbon.
What is the project’s energy use intensity and benchmark, and target (or actual) water use
Quantifying and costing your submission
Key criterion for the new ESG Award will be the detail and information submitted, letting us know that the money has been spent wisely and that resources haven’t been squandered. And this will be the case for all the Awards, the judges want to see value for money – it’s no good tackling the climate emergency and ignoring the financial crisis.
Across the board, Award submissions will need to give proof to the judges that the money has been used to good effect. We won’t let anybody else know the detail, but a lack of accurate costings will make it virtually impossible to win a BCO Award. As such your best bet is to get this information put together by a professional cost consultant.
Make sure your consultants let us know everything asked for. It should be broken down as illustrated for clear and easy understanding and analysis. Do not skimp on the detail; make sure you explain fully:
Floor areas – gross internal area and net internal area
Procurement route and project programme – key dates for appointment, planning consent, start on site, practical completion, and occupation.
Added value – identify specific initiatives that have added value.
One of the key components for a value for money is the longevity and adaptability of the building. We want to know why your project will still be standing-proud in a century. How will it withstand the weather, market demands, technological improvements, and user preferences.
The judges will need details of the building facilities, quality, durability, and maintenance. We will examine building connectivity and intelligence. We will want to see evidence that your project meets the demands placed upon it today and in the future.
We want detail of:
Your approach to quality, longevity of construction, finishes, maintenance, and management.
What measures were included to optimise cost in use?
How well connected is the building?
Has a Wiredscore or other certification been achieved?
Have you utilised any intelligent building technology – is there a building app?
Into 2023
No one thinks compiling this information will be easy and you will need to start early to collect and measure the data. Regardless of the outcome there’s no doubt that the record you build from your submission will be invaluable for you in your other projects. It will be an immense aid to the help the ongoing occupation of the building and its evolution.
But above all, do it right and successfully get across how your project is actually excellent, and on October 3rd, 2023, you might be up on the stage of the Grosvenor grasping a Golden Brick – an Award that is earned not won.
TIME TO START YOUR ENTRY!
Entering the 2023 BCO Awards is easy: simply download the 2023 Entry Guideand register for our awards competition at www.bcoawards.co.uk. Don’t worry if you don’t have all of the project information available at this stage, you can save and return to your entry at any point before submitting.
Entries are submitted online in four steps: 1. Enter project details 2. Answer the ‘Judges Questions’ 3. Upload 10 images 4. Pay entry fee and submit
Please make sure to read the section with the Judges’ Questions carefully, as some questions have changed.
Closing deadline for entries is Friday 25 November 2022 @5pm.
Key Dates
2022 25 November: Closing date for entries 1 December: Regional table sales open
2023 January – February: Regional Judging 25 April: London Awards Lunch, London 27 April: Northern Awards Dinner, Manchester 12 May: Scottish Awards Lunch, Glasgow 16 May: South of England & South Wales Award Dinner, Cardiff 19 May: Midlands & Central England Awards Lunch, Birmingham 1 June: National table sales open June-July: National Judging 3 October: National Awards Dinner, London
With thanks to our Platinum Sponsor and Media Partner for the BCO Awards 2023
Questions If you have any questions about the BCO Awards or if you need help with your entry, please email Clare Hollick at Createvents clare@createvents.co.uk or call 01183 340085.
Earlier this year, we challenged our NextGen members to put forward their boldest, most innovative and most creative ideas for the future workspace. Centring their focus on the requirements of the modern office, we asked for the most revolutionary ideas yet.
We received brilliant submissions from all who entered; the judging panel were incredibly impressed with the quality and the bold and creative ideas each participant had, and it was difficult for judges to pick out just six finalists.
Over the course of the last few months, our six finalists undertook state-of-the-art public speaking training from Ginger Leadership Communications. Each delivered a full 10-minute TED-style talk to a live audience on Thursday 29 September, flexing their newfound skills and sharing their thought-provoking ideas with the wider industry at Storey Club on Liverpool Street.
The group have been supporting each other throughout the public speaking programme, and will have been on quite the journey together. To avoid pitching them against each other, there was no overall winner — this was an evening to celebrate the achievements of our NextGen community.
Amelia Sweeney presented fascinating examples of rooms that could transport us elsewhere, challenging our sector to improve the Mothers’, Multifaith and Meditation facilities in current offices and on future projects by moving past static design solutions and integrating ‘Digital Dens’.
‘How can we redesign the office to optimize our energy, mood and productivity?’ Jessica Spencer advocated for managing our energy better and suggested listening to your body and tracking your symptoms – finding out which part of the day makes you feel most drained and thinking about how you can put systems in place to alleviate this, such as doing a five-minute meditation after a difficult meeting.
Never has screen time been so high. So how do we switch off? Have our offices adapted to the increased screen time and always-switched-on / always-connected-always-accessible-all-the-time way of life? Anoushka Pacquette called on the industry to take charge of workplace well-being, be bolder than just downloading a mindfulness app, and that we should be designating ‘Digital Detox’ centres in our future designs. Whether it’s in new builds, refurbs or fit-outs, we have to adapt.
Anna Tsoumi’s ‘Puzzle_Piece’ framework highlighted five fundamental areas, all interconnected, that offer a variety of settings for people to choose where and how they work. The five key pillars with suggested areas for the office were: Growth, Leisure, Community, Productive and Focus spaces. Anna concluded by saying that by creating a destination space where people want to come to collaborate and do more than just get work done, we’ll keep the office alive.
‘Transformational Workspaces of the Future’ was an idea birthed from playing Animal Crossing. Freya McGhee urged the sector to think about how to deliver more for clients, to think more creatively and more cost-efficiently via improvements to how we manage change. We could do this, Frey said, by immersing ourselves in the Metaverse and making use of blockchain technologies. Even if we think this is seemingly farfetched and expensive, Freya stressed that this could actually help the client stay within budget and combat inefficiency.
Finally, Timothy Newcombe presented ‘The Power to reduce Power’ as a way of installing custom monitoring and alerting into the workplace. His system called ‘GEM’ or, graphical energy metering was inspired by addressing the climate emergency and reducing a building’s energy use. It would work by installing the electrical hardware to monitor the energy uses in the electrical infrastructure followed by one more step – installing the software onto your company computers, interfaces, phones and the like. The system would not only monitor usage but serve up fresh thinking and examples of exactly where usage could be reduced.
Where do youget your best ideas?
Event sponsors: Franchi, British Land, Storey, Multiplex, Parkeray, Gensler, Edge GB, Core 5 and Opera.
Follow the BCO’s NextGen and stay up to date via social media and by subscribing to e-newsletters. E-mail mail@bco.org.uk
Green days: Why biophilic design cannot be an afterthought
Good landscape design – in and outside of your workspace – is social infrastructure. Getting it right can support mental health, reduce stress, improve navigation, encourage civic life and unlock wider investment.
Regeneration and sustainability shine at BCO South of England & South Wales Awards
From Pixel in Penzance to Arlington Square in Bracknell, workspaces across the South of England and South Wales are leading the way in design, sustainability and occupier experience.
People, place and planet prosper at BCO Midlands & Central England Awards
On Friday 8 May 2026 at the Eastside Rooms, Birmingham, the BCO’s annual awards lunch celebrated five incredible workplaces, ranging from transformative refurbishments to an exemplary, double-award-winning office development.
Make sure you’re kept up to date on BCO news and events by signing up to event and monthly newsletter emails. Emails direct to your inbox will ensure you receive opportunities to attend our events before they sell out. You can also opt-in to receive postal mailings from the BCO, including special event booking forms
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May 21, 2026 
By BCO Media 
