UK’s best workplaces honoured at BCO Awards. And the winner isn’t an office

The British Council for Offices (BCO) has announced what it says are the UK’s most exceptional workplaces this year, with eight projects receiving accolades at its National Awards. The TTP Campus, a life sciences facility in Cambridgeshire, was the standout winner, claiming both the Best of the Best and Corporate Workplace awards. The awards, held at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London, celebrate excellence in office design, operation, sustainability, and community engagement. The event, attended by over 1,200 industry leaders and featuring guest speaker Clare Balding, highlighted the best workplaces that inspire creativity and positively impact local communities.

This year, the BCO also introduced a new category, the Customer Experience Award, set to be a permanent feature from 2025. This award will recognise office buildings and campuses that provide outstanding experiences for employees, visitors, and the surrounding community.

2024 BCO National Award Winners:

– Best of the Best: TTP Campus, Cambridgeshire
– Corporate Workplace: TTP Campus, Cambridgeshire
– Commercial Workplace: 1 New Park Square, Edinburgh
– Fit Out of Workplace: Osborne Clarke by Interaction, Bristol
– Projects up to 2,500m²: Statkraft, The Garment Factory, Glasgow
– Refurbished/Recycled Workplace: Tower Hamlets Town Hall, London
– Innovation: The Forge, London
– ESG: One Strawberry Lane, Newcastle upon Tyne
– Test of Time: Deloitte HQ – 1 New Street Square, London (pictured)

TTP Campus Triumphs
The TTP Campus was praised for fostering collaboration and innovation within its life sciences hub. The campus, designed to encourage interaction between research and creative teams, features open-plan spaces and integrates the surrounding natural landscape with expansive views and wildlife-friendly areas. Judges commended its emphasis on biodiversity, including two wildlife ponds and wildflower meadows.

Edinburgh’s 1 New Park Square Shines
In the Commercial Workplace category, 1 New Park Square in Edinburgh was recognised for its role in revitalising the business park model. The building’s sustainable design, featuring mixed-mode ventilation and a new bakery and bar, was applauded. Judges noted its contribution to community wellbeing through sports facilities and public spaces.

Bristol’s Osborne Clarke Project Recognised for Fit-Out Excellence
Osborne Clarke’s Bristol office won the Fit Out of Workplace award, marking a shift from traditional legal office design to a more people-centric approach. The project incorporated photovoltaic panels, greywater recycling, and interior gardens to achieve top sustainability standards.

Glasgow’s Statkraft Wins for Small Projects
The award for Projects up to 2,500m² went to Statkraft’s office in The Garment Factory, Glasgow. The project sensitively restored a heritage building while creating a modern, user-friendly workspace. Judges highlighted the use of local, recycled materials and the project’s socially conscious approach.

London’s Tower Hamlets Town Hall Honoured for Refurbishment
Tower Hamlets Town Hall in London received the award for Refurbished/Recycled Workplace. The project combined the modernisation of a Grade II listed building with its historical character, creating a new focal point for the Whitechapel community.

The Forge Wins Innovation Award
The Forge in London was recognised for its pioneering approach to construction. The project, which uses renewable energy, was lauded for its innovative procurement methods and commitment to reducing waste.

Newcastle’s One Strawberry Lane Praised for ESG
One Strawberry Lane in Newcastle Upon Tyne received the ESG award for its outstanding focus on environmental, social, and governance principles. The building supports local communities by providing free meeting spaces for voluntary organisations and prioritising local business engagement during its construction.

Deloitte HQ Wins Test of Time Award
London’s Deloitte HQ at 1 New Street Square was awarded the Test of Time accolade. The building, praised for its adaptability and innovative design, has allowed Deloitte to consolidate its offices post-pandemic while enhancing worker wellbeing with flexible spaces and nature-inspired features.