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.

Six incredible buildings were crowned winners at the BCO awards, held at We The Curious in Bristol last night.

Swansea Council’s 71-72 The Kingsway picked up two awards for Commercial Workplace and Innovation. Judges said that the building stood out for its “seamless integration of architectural quality, sustainability, and user-focused innovation”.

The scheme was described as an “enabler for future regeneration” in Swansea that was “pushing boundaries, delivering creative solutions in design, construction, and environmental performance that elevate both occupier experience and long-term asset value”.

The BCO award winners for the South of England and South Wales are:

• Commercial Workplace: 71-72 The Kingsway, Swansea
• Corporate Workplace: Pixel Penzance, Causewayhead, Penzance
• Fit Out of Workplace: Christopher Ward HQ, 14-18 Bell Street, Maidenhead
• Projects up to 2,500 sq m: 3 Arlington Square, Bracknell
• Refurbished / Recycled Workplace: The Works, Farleigh Bridge, East Farleigh
• Innovation: 71-72 The Kingsway, Swansea
• ESG: Welcome Building, Avon Street, Bristol

Harry Allen, chair of the South of England & South Wales judging panel and director, South West Office Agency at Savills, said: “What stands out across this year’s projects is their impact beyond the workplace itself. From revitalising town centres and supporting local economies to redefining the role of the modern office, each scheme demonstrates how far the sector has evolved. Collectively, they reflect a growing emphasis on sustainability, wellbeing and creating workplaces with a strong sense of place.”

Samantha McClary, BCO chief executive, added: “Vibrant, impactful, enablers, drivers of economic growth. This is exactly what our workspaces are and this has been powerfully underscored by not just this year’s winners at the South of England & South Wales BCO Awards, but through every project shortlist. Innovation is clearly strong in the region and the depth and breadth of projects from Cornwall to Berkshire is not just inspiring to see but is clear further evidence that the idea that the office is dead, is most definitely fake news.”

South of England & South Wales winners will compete to be the best of the best at the BCO National Awards on Tuesday 6 October 2026 at London’s Grosvenor House hotel. Tickets go on sale on 3 June.

This year’s Gold sponsors are AET Flexible Space and Troup Bywaters + Anders. Overbury is Silver sponsor and MCS is Bronze sponsor. Estates Gazette is media partner for the awards.

THE WINNERS:

Commercial Workplace and Innovation Award: 71-72 The Kingsway, Swansea

What is it? A standout commercial scheme that sets a new benchmark for workplace design, combining high-performance building systems with flexible, future-ready spaces.

The judges said: “71-72 The Kingsway stood out for its seamless integration of architectural quality, sustainability, and user-focused innovation. It is an enabler for future regeneration of Swansea city centre, with multiple active frontages, new routes, and a bold architectural approach. It is innovative in both its sustainable and visual design, material use and procurement strategy in a challenging rental market. This scheme pushes boundaries, delivering creative solutions in design, construction, and environmental performance that elevate both occupier experience and long-term asset value.”

 Corporate Workplace: Pixel Penzance, Causewayhead, Penzance

What is it? A design-led response to high street decline, creating a landmark creative hub that blends innovation with heritage.

The judges said: “Pixel’s flexible, future-proofed studio leasing model actively supports Penzance’s creative sector, driving economic regeneration and community engagement. The project  demonstrates long-term value and showcases robust environmental credentials: BREEAM Excellent, lifecycle carbon assessment and passive design. Pixel shows how corporate investment can revive communities, champion sustainability and nurture business ecosystems.”

Fit Out of Workplace: Christopher Ward HQ, 14-18 Bell Street, Maidenhead

What is it? A 10,079 sq ft fit out integrating administration, design studios, logistics, repair facilities, and customer experience showrooms under one roof.

The judges said: “This holistic approach optimises the flow of components and is designed to accommodate future growth and flexible working. The “pickable” showroom walls are original and give customers direct physical interaction, enhancing brand experience and reinforcing Christopher Ward’s identity as a maker of high-quality mechanical watches. The fit out excels by consolidating operations. It successfully supports hybrid working while providing high quality customer engagement through interactive showrooms. The scheme also demonstrates value and sustainability, with 92% of construction waste being recycled or reused.”

Projects up to 2,500m²: 3 Arlington Square, Bracknell

What is it? A vibrant workplace transformation that blends wellness, connectivity, and outdoor amenities in a campus-style setting.

The judges said: “Aligned with the principles championed by BCO, this project illustrates how targeted design interventions, even at a relatively small scale, can have a big impact and transform underutilised common areas within an existing building. The amenities significantly improve the tenant experience while fostering community and promoting wellbeing within the workplace. What made this a compelling entry is the sense of community this creates, achieved within a modest footprint.”

Refurbished / Recycled Workplace: The Works, Farleigh Bridge, East Farleigh

What is it? A small but impactful and well-crafted refurbishment that exemplifies the value of reuse and reinvention.

The judges said: “Sensitive yet transformative, this project has breathed new life into the structure of a Victorian pump house with great visual appeal. The project strikes an effective balance between retaining character and introducing contemporary interventions, demonstrating strong sustainability credentials through material reuse and reduced embodied carbon. A thoughtful and well executed scheme that highlights the potential of refurbishment as a viable and responsible alternative to new build.”

ESG Award: Welcome Building, Bristol

What is it? A best-in-class commercial development that has helped redefine Grade A office provision in Bristol.

The judges said: “It delivers exceptional sustainability, wellbeing and amenity standards, achieving BREEAM Outstanding, EPC A and targeting a NABERS 5 Star rating. Its striking design, with large flexible floorplates and an amenity-rich internal “Street”, creates a vibrant, hospitality-led environment of exceptional quality. The project also delivered meaningful social value through local employment, community initiatives and public art. With its landmark presence, market-leading specification and curated interiors, Welcome Building represents a significant step forward for commercial workspace in the region.”

BCO South of England and South Wales media contact: Georgie Butler at Barques on 0121 230 2080

A focus on people, place and protecting the planet came through powerfully in this year’s winners of the BCO’s 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.

The BCO regional award winners for the Midlands & Central England are:

• Commercial Workplace: Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham
• Fit Out of Workplace: Standard Life, 10 Brindleyplace, Birmingham
• Projects up to 2,500 sq m: NESO The Energy Lab, Warwick
• Refurbished / Recycled Workplace: 19 Cornwall Street, Birmingham
• Innovation:1 BHIC, Birmingham
• ESG: Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham

Double winner Three Chamberlain Square stood out for judges for placing sustainability, wellbeing and operational carbon at the core of its design and development and for “redefining what is possible in a heritage setting”.

Emma Cochrane, chair of the Midlands & Central England judging panel and director at Weedon Architects said: “The BCO Awards continue to recognise the teams creating exceptional workplaces. This year’s entries demonstrate the ongoing evolution of office design, with a strong focus on high-quality spaces that foster collaboration and prioritise people’s wellbeing. Sustainability and carbon-conscious design continue to drive innovation in re-use, material selection, and experimentation. Congratulations to all the regional winners, and best of luck in the National Awards.”

Rob van Zyl, chair of the BCO Midlands Committee and partner at Cundall said: “The BCO Awards recognise offices that push the boundaries of what great workplaces can be. This year’s winning projects highlight how intelligent design, low‑carbon thinking and a human‑centred approach can come together to create buildings that are resilient, flexible and inspiring.

“They reflect the Midlands and Central England’s growing reputation for delivering high‑quality, sustainable workplaces — offices that not only perform well technically, but support wellbeing, productivity and positive social impact.”

Samantha McClary, BCO chief executive, added: “BCO award winning workspaces continue to define what good looks like and it is incredibly inspiring to see, not just through the winners, but through every entry, how our sector is creating places with purpose. Places that put people and the planet at the heart of what they deliver. This sector is leading the way and it is a great privilege for the BCO to be able to celebrate best-in-class and to showcase the excellence that our designers, developers and operators of workspaces are creating. Congratulations to all our winners and shortlisted entries.”

Midlands and Central England winners will compete for the BCO National Awards on Tuesday 6 October 2026 at London’s Grosvenor House hotel. Tickets go on sale next month.

This year’s Gold sponsors are AET Flexible Space and Troup and Bywaters + Anders. Overbury and Quantem are Silver sponsors. Estates Gazette is media partner for the awards.

THE WINNERS:

Commercial Workplace and ESG Award: Three Chamberlain Square, Birmingham

What is it? A commercial workplace distinguished by its terracotta façade, forming part of the 1.8m sq ft Paradise masterplan.

The judges said: “Sustainability, wellbeing and operational carbon were at the core of the design and construction process, resulting in a fully electric and fossil fuel free development. The scheme demonstrates exemplary environmental credentials and material innovation, achieving BREEAM Outstanding and targeting a NABERS 5* rating – firsts for the West Midlands – alongside an EPC A rating, WiredScore and ActiveScore Platinum. Responding sensitively to its historic context, the project draws inspiration from its surroundings while redefining what is possible in a heritage setting.”

Fit Out of Workplace: 10 Brindleyplace, Birmingham

What is it? A sixth-floor transformation for Phoenix Group, marking a pivotal move under the Standard Life brand from its expansive former Wythall campus to a compact city-centre hub.

The judges said: “The new workplace delivers a dynamic, people-focused environment centred on collaboration, flexibility and wellbeing. Adaptable workstations, biophilic design and the extensive reuse of materials significantly reduce embodied carbon, while smart utilisation technology enhances operational efficiency. The project is recognised as a forward-looking workplace that successfully balances flexibility, performance and employee experience, reflecting a renewed sense of culture and identity.”

Projects up to 2,500m²: NESO The Energy Lab, Warwick

What is it? A pilot scheme representing a workplace solution that facilitated the transition away from National Grid into an independent organisation.

The judges said: “Achieved through a collaborative approach which included an extensive 90-strong staff-led design process, this project places its people at the centre of its vision. The judges were particularly impressed by the circular economy principles adopted, with the reuse of existing materials and remanufactured furniture forming a core part of the delivery. The notable achievement of zero waste to landfill further distinguished the scheme.”

Refurbished / Recycled Workplace: 19 Cornwall Street, Birmingham

What is it? A back-to-frame refurbishment retaining and reusing much of the existing fabric while fundamentally repurposing the asset into a modern workplace with a focus on ESG and occupier wellbeing. 

The judges said: “Recycled materials are integral to the design, supporting an operational net zero carbon approach. Material use was minimised, with a focus on low-carbon, locally sourced, and high-recycled-content options. The building has embraced Smart Pass technology, offering seamless connectivity and user experience, alongside sophisticated building system control with data capture for monitoring and reporting. This refurbishment is an excellent example of carefully measured sympathetic intervention to deliver a modern, future-ready workplace.”

Innovation: No.1 BHIC, Birmingham

What is it? No.1 BHIC represents the first phase of a health and innovation campus near the University of Birmingham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

The judges said: “From the impressive double-height event space and communal café to a diverse mix of laboratory, flexible office and training environments, this project sets a new UK benchmark for integrated commercial, clinical and academic workplaces. Strong occupancy success at the time of visit reflects its market appeal. Underpinned by a robust approach to sustainability and future-proofing, No.1 BHIC combines all the key ingredients needed to create a nationally significant destination for the life sciences sector.”

AET Flexible Space, Troup Bywaters + Anders, Quantem and Overbury are proud sponsors of the BCO Midlands Awards.

Media partner: Estates Gazette.

BCO North media contact:

For more information please contact Paul King, PR director at Barques on 0121 230 2080.

The North’s most outstanding workplaces have been named, with BCO Awards presented to six landmark office buildings across the region. On Wednesday 6 May 2026 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 sector.

Adam Tillis, chair of the BCO Northern Awards 2026 judging panel and operations director at Dragonfly Contracts, said: “What struck the judging panel most this year was the outstanding quality of the projects and the rigorous consistency of thinking underpinning them. This year’s categories were exceptionally competitive, particularly among the Fit Out and Refurbished/Recycled projects. The sheer volume of submissions, coupled with a consistently high standard of excellence across the board, made the selection process more difficult than ever.

“There is a definitive, positive shift occurring within our industry. Sustainability is no longer a ‘tick-box’ exercise but a core driver of commercial success, while ‘retrofit first’ creativity is now leading the way in building reuse. With people at the heart of every design, from neuroinclusive environments to wellbeing focused hubs, the office has officially evolved into a destination where people genuinely want to spend time.”

No.1 St Michael’s, the Manchester development brought forward by Gary Neville’s Relentless, picked up two awards at the ceremony – Commercial Workplace and ESG.

Judges said the building, which is fully electric, has a BREEAM Outstanding rating and NABERS 5* design certification, had been a catalyst for regeneration in Manchester.

“By activating a long-underused site with vibrant public squares and destination F&B, No.1 St Michael’s has created a new cultural and business quarter that truly “lifts the spirits” of the city.”

Capital + Centric’s refurbishment of a 1960’s former civic centre in Wigan into 33,000 sq ft of aspirational workspace also captivated judges this year, who described the work as a masterclass in the “replicable power of conservation-led retrofit”.

The judges said: “Ultimately, Civic stands as a symbol of optimism for Wigan, proving that intelligent commercial design can catalyse economic renewal, secure a sustainable future, and truly “lift a town’s spirits” without erasing its history. It is a gold standard for the adaptive reuse of 20th-century landmarks”’

The BCO Regional Award winners in each category for the North were:

• Projects up to 2,500 sqm: Chancery Place, Manchester
• Refurbished/Recycled Workplace: Civic, Wigan
• Fit out of Workplace: DLA Piper, Leeds
• Corporate Workplace: Lloyds Banking Group, Trinity Road, Halifax
• Commercial Workplace: 1 St Michael’s, Manchester
• ESG: 1 St Michael’s, Manchester
• Innovation: Renold Building, Manchester

Highly Commended workplaces were:

• 12 Wellington Place (JLL), Leeds (Projects up to 2,500 sqm)
• Renold Building, Manchester (Refurbished/Recycled Workplace)
• Lloyds Banking Group, Trinity Road, Halifax (Refurbished/Recycled Workplace)
• Hill Dickinson, No.1 St Michael’s, Manchester (Fit out of Workplace)

Alex Stork, chair of the BCO Northern committee, said: “These workspaces represent the very best of contemporary office design, demonstrating how innovation in wellbeing, sustainability and community engagement can combine to create high‑quality commercial environments and employee satisfaction.

“The North continues to deliver an outstanding breadth of office development, underpinned by strong collaboration between forward‑thinking businesses, local authorities, and highly skilled design and construction teams.”

Samantha McClary, BCO chief executive, added: “As we continue the BCO’s journey across the UK celebrating best-in-class offices, when it comes to excellence, the UK has it in spades. What is clear from all the winners so far – and especially in the North – is a commitment to delivering workspaces that don’t just deliver for the companies that occupy them, but that cater to the human beings that use them and that positively add to the communities in which they sit.”

The Northern region winners will now compete for the BCO National Awards on Tuesday 6 October 2026. More details will be announced soon.

The BCO Awards are supported by Gold sponsors, AET Flexible Space, and Troup, Bywaters + Anders. Estates Gazette is media partner.

The winners:

Projects up to 2,500 sqm

Overbury’s Manchester office at Chancery Place was hailed by the judges a standout example of how a compact 634m² floorplate can be transformed into a high-functioning, client-facing workplace.

They were particularly impressed by the “retrofit-first” strategy, which achieved a value-driven Cat B fit out, while retaining major base build infrastructure and over 60% of existing furniture. The design’s strength lies in its zoning, which successfully balances high energy collaboration areas with restorative spaces like the “quiet library,” wellness suite, and a parent/prayer room with wudu wash.

Judges noted: “Sustainability is deeply integrated rather than performative, evidenced by SKA accreditation, the use of UK sourced materials, and a commitment to future disassembly. Ultimately, the project’s success is validated by its users; with an 88% post occupancy satisfaction rate confirms that this is a workplace where people truly want to succeed. It serves as a powerful working showroom that perfectly embodies the professional standards of its occupants.”

Refurbished/Recycled Workplace of the Year

Judges were captivated by Capital+Centric’s Civic development in Wigan, describing it as a masterclass in the “replicable power of conservation led retrofit.”

By transforming a neglected 1960s Brutalist civic centre into 33,000 sq ft of aspirational workspace, they noted how the project successfully fills a major void in the town centre while celebrating its architectural heritage. 

The project’s environmental credentials are exemplary, achieving both BREEAM Excellent and an EPC A rating. Beyond technical performance, Civic acts as a vital “interface between commercial and civic life.” The inclusion of a public facing café, gym, mini cinema, and roof terrace coupled with enhanced green space reconnects the site to the community.

The judges said: “Ultimately, Civic stands as a symbol of optimism for Wigan, proving that intelligent commercial design can catalyse economic renewal, secure a sustainable future, and truly “lift a town’s spirits” without erasing its history. It is a gold standard for the adaptive reuse of 20th-century landmarks”’

Fit Out of Workplace

Judges were highly impressed by DLA Piper’s new Leeds headquarters at City Square House, describing it as a “physical manifesto” of the firm’s values.

By merging two offices into an 83,000 sq ft workspace, this project sets new standards for law firm design. Judges noted features such as link staircases, higher ceilings, and added bike and shower facilities developed from DLA Piper’s requirements. The “One Vision, One Space” approach creates a transparent, collaborative workplace, with spaces like the Client Suite and rooftop terrace easily shifting from business to events with city views.

The design incorporates inclusivity and neurodiversity through colour-blocked wayfinding, quiet tech-free zones, and varied sensory areas. Sustainability is addressed by using recycled suit fibres and British wool, reflecting Leeds’ heritage and achieving BREEAM Excellent certification.

Judges said: “Ultimately, the project sets a new benchmark for the sector. By balancing operational excellence with an authentic sense of place, DLA Piper has created an exceptional environment that truly “lifts the spirits” and fosters a genuine sense of pride for its people.”

Corporate Workplace

Lloyds Banking Group’s Trinity Road offices in Halifax received the Corporate Workplace award for its landmark achievement in heritage led transformation, proving that a Grade II listed, 1970s concrete frame structure can be reimagined as a high-performance, future-ready campus.

The judges were particularly impressed by the sensitive restoration of its iconic façade and the conservation of original timber paneling alongside major technical upgrades.

A “retrofit-first” strategy earned an EPC A rating by using fully recycled metal and glass for curtain walling and improving thermal stability. Replacing gas boilers with ground source heat pumps powered by renewable electricity cuts 1,300 tonnes of CO₂ annually.

Judges said: “This modernisation supports 3,500 hybrid workers through inclusive, neurodiversity friendly zones, varied collaboration settings, and premium wellbeing facilities. With 66% furniture reuse and a £20m social return on investment, Trinity Road serves as a “gold standard” for sustainable, civic-minded corporate workplaces.”

Commercial Workplace and ESG

No.1 St Michael’s earned the double at the BCO Northern Awards, winning both Commercial Workplace and the ESG awards.

The judges were particularly impressed by its status as the first office building in Manchester to achieve full pre-let status prior to completion in over 15 years, praising the remarkable feat in a challenging post pandemic market.

The building is fully electric, with a BREEAM “Outstanding” rating, NABERS 5* Design Certification, and a “fabric first” strategy that achieved an upfront carbon intensity of 578 kgCO2e/m². The design combines the historic Portland stone façade with a modern structure featuring honeycomb glazing and biophilic terraces.

Judges said: “Socially, the development has been a catalyst for regeneration, generating more than £27m in local economic and social value. By activating a long-underused site with vibrant public squares and destination F&B, No.1 St Michael’s has created a new cultural and business quarter that truly “lifts the spirits” of the city.”

Innovation

Judges described the reinvention of Manchester’s historic Renold Building as a masterclass in the circular economy and a “bold awakening” for a 1960s university landmark.

By transforming this Brutalist icon into a dynamic, multi-tenant innovation hub, the project demonstrates how neglected educational infrastructure can be repurposed to drive Manchester’s modern Sister innovation district.

The panel praised the project’s strong focus on sustainability, highlighted by a 71% reduction in embodied carbon through refurbishment, creative reuse of salvaged furniture, and recycled materials. Its “fabric-first” strategy and targeted MEP upgrades preserve architectural character while meeting modern standards.

The Renold Building is also an active community hub, featuring public amenities like a gallery with Victor Pasmore’s mural, a plant nursery, and a community kitchen. With £1.84 million in verified social value and neurodivergent-friendly, adaptable spaces, judges recognised it as a resilient, inclusive model for sustainable urban renewal.

Thanks to sponsors: AET Flexible Space and Troup Bywaters + Anders 

Media partners: Estates Gazette 

BCO North media contact:

Inform Communications

aaron.eastwood@informcomms.co.uk

T: 07791653149

A new age for retrofit; pushing the boundaries on circularity; and celebrating sustainability and heritage. Those were just a few of the key messages shared as seven incredible workspaces were crowned winners of the BCO Scotland Awards today.

Held at Glasgow’s Hilton Hotel, the BCO’s annual Scottish Awards lunch, hosted by comedian Christopher Macarthur-Boyd, recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and sustainability, setting the bar for excellence across the sector.

The BCO Award winners for Scotland are:

• Projects up to 1,500 sq. m: BDP Studio, Glasgow
• Refurbished / Recycled workplace: Lucent, Glasgow
• Fit-out of Workplace: PwC at Aurora, Glasgow
• Corporate Workplace: 20 Brandon Street, Edinburgh
• Commercial Workplace: 30 Semple Street, Edinburgh
• Innovation: Health Innovation Hub, Glasgow
• ESG: Cundall New Clarendon, Edinburgh

The Committee Chair’s Award, for an outstanding contribution to the Scottish property industry, was also presented to MLA’s Gillian Stewart.

Peter Kerr, chair of the BCO Scotland committee, said: “I am delighted with the calibre and diversity of this year’s winners. From creative retrofits to cutting‑edge lab space, each project demonstrates the quality, sustainability and occupier focus that the BCO champions. The strength of entries from both Glasgow and Edinburgh shows how resilient and adaptable Scotland’s office market remains.”

 Tim Griffin, chair of the Scottish Judging panel, added:  “This year’s entries continued the trends of previous years with a clear shift towards improved environmental performance, reduced embodied carbon, and a consistent ambition to the increase colleague attendance in the office by embracing experiential design principles. It was great to see a number of entries in the Commercial Workplace category this year after a no-show last year, and an increased focus on refurbishment and remodelling of existing office stock.”

 “Scotland never disappoints when it comes to showcasing the very best in workplace design, fit-out and operation,” said BCO chief executive, Samantha McClary, “and its brilliant to see exemplar projects in Glasgow and Edinburgh recognised by our judges.

“What continues to shine through in the BCO awards is this industry’s commitment to delivering sustainable buildings, projecting heritage and creating workspaces that work for human beings. Congratulations not just to everyone who won today, but to all those shortlisted.”

All winners from the Scotland awards will compete with other winners from across the UK at the BCO National Awards in October.

THE WINNERS:

Projects up to 1,500 sq. m: BDP Studio, Glasgow

What is it? BDP’s new Glasgow studio, occupying the historic Grosvenor Building in Glasgow’s Gordon Street.

The judges said: “Delivered with a strong focus on sustainability and enhancing their own studio culture, this scheme achieves low energy use while prioritising the reuse of existing furniture, all within a comparatively modest budget. The result is a highly successful project that demonstrates what can be achieved through creativity, rigour and commitment.”

Refurbished / Recycled workplace: Lucent, Glasgow

What is it? A newbuild wrapped in a historic façade, located on Glasgow’s Bothwell Street, with sustainability at its core.

The judges said: “Lucent is an exemplary project demonstrating how a complex and constrained building can be successfully transformed into high quality office accommodation.  The clever incorporation of the historic sandstone frontage on the upper levels preserves and celebrates the building’s heritage, whilst enabling the delivery of high-quality Grade A workspace.”

Fit-out of Workplace: PwC at Aurora, Glasgow

What is it? A highly successful fit-out for PwC within the previous BCO award winning Aurora building, creating a workplace of genuine quality and versatility.

The judges said: “The office design balances the needs of a corporate environment with a strong hospitality feel, whilst reflecting both the local culture and character of Glasgow. The inclusion of an interconnecting stair between floors is a particularly successful intervention, enhancing physical connectivity and promoting knowledge exchange across teams. Overall, this is a confident and engaging workplace that fully realises the potential of the building.”

Corporate Workplace: 20 Brandon Street, Edinburgh

What is it? An exemplary refurbishment in Edinburgh’s New Town for BlackRock, transforming a historic B-listed former printworks and 1970s office into 140,000 sq ft of modern workspace.

The judges said: ”Brandon Street exemplifies exceptional adaptive reuse, seamlessly transforming the three buildings into a cohesive workspace for 1,500 employees. The innovative reimagining of the central atrium as a vibrant social hub with bleacher seating, café, and wellness facilities demonstrates how thoughtful design can fundamentally enhance user experience and collaboration. The project’s robust sustainability achievements and inclusive design approach, developed through extensive stakeholder engagement, establish it as an exemplary example of heritage-sensitive workplace regeneration.”

Commercial Workplace: 30 Semple Street, Edinburgh

What is it? A ‘new age’ of retrofit, having been awarded the first BREEAM Outstanding certification in Scotland for an office building refurbishment. 

The judges said: “We were impressed by the quality and calibre of the enhancements – the building is unrecognisable when compared with its starting point and is an outstanding example of what can be achieved with a retrofit development.  This is reflected in the fact that 30 Semple Street has set a new benchmark for office rental levels in the city.  The amenity areas, wellbeing spaces and finishes are of a very high quality, adding a subtle luxe feel to the building which creates a real sense of place and gives the building a true personality.”

Innovation: Health Innovation Hub, Glasgow

What is it? the first purpose-built flexible lab and office building in Glasgow totalling 87,000 sq ft. Located strategically adjacent to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, the building brings together researchers, healthcare professionals, and innovative companies in a collaborative ecosystem designed to promote and support innovation & growth.

The judges said: “We were extremely impressed by the integrated design approach and investment in flexible and collaborative space and design and are delighted to award this building with the Innovation Award.”

ESG: Cundall New Clarendon, Edinburgh

What is it? Cundall’s new Edinburgh office, in Edinburgh’s George Street

The judges said: “This project has pushed the boundaries on circular economy principles and is a practical demonstration of highly sustainable, cost- efficient, human-centred design, proving that high-performance, flexible, and healthy workplaces can be delivered through circularity principles, careful planning, and performance-based decision-making. It offers a replicable model for low-carbon refurbishment across the sector setting an impressive benchmark for others to follow.”

Gold sponsor’s for this year’s BCO Awards are AET Flexible Space and Troup, Bywaters + Anders. Ryden is sponsor for the Scotland region. Estates Gazette is media partner.

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.

BCO Scotland media contact:

lisa@skylarkpublicrelations.com

T: 07825225414

The winners of the British Council for Offices London Awards 2026 have been announced, recognising six outstanding workplace projects that demonstrate design excellence, meaningful sustainability and a strong focus on people and place.

The BCO regional award winners for London are:

• Best Corporate Workplace: Deutsche Bank, 21 Moorfields
• Best Commercial Workplace: Stonecutter, 1 Stonecutter Street
• Best Refurbished / Recycled Workplace: 76 Southbank
• Best Fit Out of Workplace: Rabobank, 60 London Wall
• Best Project up to 2,500m²:170 Piccadilly
• ESG Award: TBC.London, 224-226 Tower Bridge Rd

This year’s winners mark a decisive shift away from demolition‑led development towards long‑term urban stewardship, with projects such as 76 Southbank, delivered by AHMM for Wolfe Commercial Properties, and TBC.London, developed by FORE Partnership with Stiff + Trevillion, demonstrating how existing buildings can be re‑engineered into world‑class workplaces through material reuse, architectural restraint and net‑zero ambition.

Angela Joseph, development director at Brookfield Properties and chair of the BCO London judging panel, said: “This year’s projects show a real maturity in how the industry is working. Teams have taken on enormously difficult sites; building over live rail infrastructure, working sensitively with listed fabric, and turned those constraints into the driving force behind better design. I’ve been impressed by the brave and thoughtful choices made by teams, from reusing structural steel to making sure that all workspaces work harder to achieve a range of uses for occupiers and the highest possible sustainability standards. These are buildings shaped by long-term thinking rather than short-term solutions.”

Integrated design, where architecture, engineering and interiors were conceived together, emerged as a recurring practice across the winners. BCO Judges commended the collaborative approach at 21 Moorfields, led by WilkinsonEyre with tp bennett and a multidisciplinary engineering team, as well as at Stonecutter, where tp bennett, Hoare Lea and CO‑RE aligned sustainability, structure and tenant experience from an early stage to deliver a fully electric, highly sustainable commercial workplace.

Social value and ESG beyond compliance also differentiated this year’s winners. Projects were recognised not only for environmental performance, but for how teams invested in skills, craft and community. Judges pointed in particular to TBC.London’s pioneering approach to reclaimed steel and bricklaying training, Stonecutter’s focus on education and community engagement, and the public realm improvements delivered at Lendlease’s Moorfields and along the South Bank.

Clare Ashmore, chief operating officer at Parkeray and chair of BCO London committee, said: “This year’s London winners show that wellbeing is no longer a nice‑to‑have in workplace design, but central to how offices are conceived and delivered. With ESG shaping everything from architecture and construction to long‑term social impact, these projects demonstrate how workplaces can support people, strengthen their surroundings, and still perform commercially. They set a strong and inspiring benchmark for the next generation of London workplaces.”

Samantha McClary, chief executive of the BCO, added: “What these London winners demonstrate is a wider shift in mindset across the office sector. Faced with unprecedented economic, environmental and social change, the industry is showing it can adapt with confidence, investing in quality, reuse and long-term value. The winners also reinforce the role of the office as critical infrastructure for cities like London by supporting productivity, wellbeing and connection.”

Please see below for full list and description of winning projects:

Best Corporate Workplace: Deutsche Bank, 21 Moorfields

Described as “a building that is a bridge”, 21 Moorfields is a landmark corporate headquarters delivered above a complex operational rail interchange in the City of London. The project combines architecture, engineering and interiors in a highly integrated way, creating a flexible, future-ready workplace while significantly enhancing the public realm with new routes and public spaces linking Moorgate and the Barbican. Judges praised the project as a market‑leading example of user-focused design delivered under extraordinary constraints.

Best Commercial Workplace: Stonecutter, 1 Stonecutter Street

Stonecutter impressed the judges with its thoughtful response to context, drawing on the area’s historic diamond‑cutting heritage to inform its design. The all‑electric building delivers strong environmental performance alongside a clear social value agenda, particularly its focus on education and community engagement. Fully let ahead of completion, judges described the project as a highly sustainable workplace designed to stand the test of time.

Best Refurbished / Recycled Workplace: 76 Southbank

76 Southbank is an exemplary refurbishment and extension of Sir Denys Lasdun’s final major building, delivered with exceptional care and attention. Judges praised architect AHMM for its sensitive material approach, including the replication of the original precast granite panels, and the transformation of the building’s relationship with the public realm through new entrances and generous riverside terraces. The result is a world‑class office that reconciles heritage conservation, net‑zero ambition and civic presence.

Best Fit Out of a Workplace: Winner: Rabobank, 60 London Wall, Highly Commended: Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), 22 Ropemaker Street

Rabobank’s fit out was recognised for its calm, refined design and strong emphasis on sustainability and wellbeing. Extensive material and furniture reuse underpin aspirations for BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum, while communal spaces sit at the heart of the workplace. PIC was highly commended for its thoughtfully executed office, where flexible layouts, generous terraces and embedded wellbeing spaces support long‑term adaptability.

Best Project up to 2,500m²: 170 Piccadilly

170 Piccadilly was praised for successfully balancing heritage with modern workplace standards. Working sensitively alongside a listed building, the project unlocks new amenities, including a rooftop terrace and end‑of‑trip facilities. while delivering high environmental performance. Judges described it as a model example of how heritage buildings can be adapted to support contemporary working.

ESG Award: TBC.London, 224–226 Tower Bridge Road

TBC.London set a new benchmark for ESG-led development. The judges highlighted its pioneering reuse of reclaimed steel through “urban mining”, its handcrafted brick façade delivered via a training programme, and its commitment to net‑zero carbon in operation. Beyond the building, the project supports local communities through affordable spaces, a curated food offer and partnerships with Southwark Council. Judges praised it as a project that genuinely goes beyond box‑ticking.

The London winners will go on to compete at the BCO National Awards in October.

The Gold sponsors for this year’s BCO Awards are: AET Flexible Space and Troup Bywaters + Anders. The London regional sponsor is Wilmott Dixon. Estates Gazette is media partner.

Please find a link to images of the winners here.