BCO Awards 2026, British Council for Offices

BCO Awards 2026 Winners: British Council For Offices

British Council For Offices Prize Winners – Buildings + Architects

7 October 2026

BCO Awards winners showcase the social and economic power of successful design

The UK’s best offices are acting as catalysts for growth and regeneration

Wednesday 7 October 2026 – The power of outstanding office developments to revitalise town centres, generate social value and act as catalysts for wider regeneration has been highlighted at this year’s British Council for Offices National Awards dinner.

Celebrating the very best in office design, development and operation, the annual BCO Awards were presented in front of an audience of around 1,000 senior figures from across the office sector at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House hotel on London’s Park Lane on 6 October.

The winners showcase what it takes to create a successful office in today’s environment and how those leading the way are revitalising cities, cutting carbon and setting new benchmarks for customer experience.

Commercial and Best of the Best – 71-72 Kingsway, Swansea, Wales:

photo : Neil Perry Photography

Fit Out – Christopher Ward HQ, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England:

photo courtesy of Spratley & Partners

Innovation – The Renold Building, Manchester, England:

photo courtesy of Space Invader Design

Judges choice – Pixel Penzance, Cornwall, southwest England:

photo courtesy Stride Treglown

Projects up to 2,500m2 – Chancery Place, Manchester, northwest England:

photo courtesy of Space Invader Design

Refurbished-Recycled Workplace – Civic Millgate – Communal Lounge, Wigan, northwest England:

photo courtesy of Shedkm

This was exemplified by Best of the Best Award winner 71/72 Kingsway in Swansea, which the judges praised for being a catalyst for the regeneration of the city centre. The judges said the project, which included a new public square, demonstrated how intelligent, people-centred architecture can stimulate investment, attract high-value employment and become a genuine beacon for the future of Swansea.

This theme continued with the presentation of the inaugural Judges’ Choice Award to Pixel, a new hub for creatives and start-ups in Penzance, Cornwall. Introduced to enable the national judging panel to recognise a project that they believe deserves special recognition beyond the established categories, Pixel received the award for demonstrating how corporate investment in close partnership with the local council can revive communities, champion sustainability and nurture business ecosystems.

The evening culminated in the presentation of the President’s Award to Professor Janice Kirkpatrick OBE, co-founder of international design studio Graven, in recognition of her work championing design-led growth. Over four decades, Kirkpatrick has been a driving force behind countless placemaking and design-led economic regeneration initiatives and a key adviser to local and national policymakers, deepening their understanding that great creative design is economic infrastructure.

BCO president Andy McBain said: “The BCO President’s Award should recognise not only what someone has made, but what they have made possible for others. Across four decades, Janice has made possible better workplaces, stronger businesses, renewed places, economic placemaking, new careers and a more ambitious understanding of the value of creative design. As the importance of the creative economy grows, her wisdom has never been more needed.”

The winners of this year’s BCO National Awards are:

Best of the Best: 71/72 Kingsway, Swansea
Corporate Workplace: Deutsche Bank, 21 Moorfields, London
Commercial Workplace: 71/72 Kingsway, Swansea
Fit Out of Workplace: Christopher Ward HQ, Maidenhead
Projects up to 2,500m²: 13th floor at Chancery Place, Manchester
Refurbished/Recycled Workplace: Civic Millgate, Wigan

Innovation: The Renold Building, Manchester

ESG: TBC.London
Customer Experience, Commercial Landlord: 40 Leadenhall
Customer Experience, Corporate Occupier: GSK HQ, London
Judges’ Choice Award: Pixel, Penzance
President’s Award: Professor Janice Kirkpatrick OBE

71-72 Kingsway in Swansea, Wales:

photos : Neil Perry Photography

BCO national judging chair Nicola Gillen said: “This year’s winners demonstrate the growing role of the workplace as a driver of regeneration and social value. Whether supporting local businesses, revitalising town centres, attracting investment or creating opportunities for communities, these projects show that office buildings can have a transformative impact far beyond their physical boundaries. They set a compelling benchmark for how our sector can contribute to economic growth while continuing to lead on sustainability, innovation and customer experience.”

BCO chief executive Samantha McClary added: “The places in which we work have never been more important. They not only provide places for us to innovate and create, but more and more are providing spaces and places that help us feel better, deliver more for people and planet and are a vital part of a community. The BCO Awards and all of this year’s finalists – and especially our winners – are the exemplars in delivering these amazing spaces. It is an honour and a privilege to be able to celebrate them.”

This year’s Gold partners are 8build, AET Flexible Space, Redworx MEP, Saint-Gobain UK, and Troup Bywaters + Anders. The Silver partners are Morgan Lovell, Overbury and Quantem. Estates Gazette is media partner for the awards.

BCO Awards 2026 Winners

THE WINNERS

Best of the Best and Commercial Workplace Award: 71/72 Kingsway, Swansea

71-72 Kingsway, Swansea, Wales, UK:

photos : Neil Perry Photography

What is it? A standout workplace which successfully combines outstanding design and sustainability while acting as a catalyst for the regeneration of Swansea city centre.

The judges said: “What particularly stood out was the building’s deceptively simple yet clever design. The seamless transition between the welcoming public spaces and secure private tenant areas creates a building that feels both open and inclusive while maintaining excellent functionality for its occupiers. Above all, 71/72 Kingsway demonstrates how intelligent, people-centred architecture can stimulate investment, attract high-value employment and become a genuine beacon for the future of Swansea.”

Corporate Workplace Award: Deutsche Bank, 21 Moorfields, London

What is it? A new global flagship for Deutsche Bank representing the latest in workplace thinking and delivering an enhanced experience for traders, customers and employees.

The judges said: “The integration of architecture, engineering and interior design was key for such a large and complex project above a major national rail interchange. Employee wellbeing and flexibility underpinned the design with a variety of health and wellness spaces, terraces and other outdoor spaces, and staff satisfaction has improved by 10% since completion. The development also enhances the public realm, introducing new public squares and strengthening connections between Moorgate and the Barbican.”

Fit Out of Workplace Award: Christopher Ward HQ, Maidenhead

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

The judges said: “The fit-out excels in meeting Christopher Ward’s needs by consolidating operations, enhancing brand alignment, offering a hybrid working environment and providing high-quality customer engagement – the ‘pickable walls’ in the showrooms are particularly original, allowing customers to interact directly with the watches. This holistic approach, driven by process efficiency, has been a key enabler in doubling revenue for the business and increasing shipping from 500 to 800 watches a day since moving in.”

Refurbished/Recycled Workplace Award: Civic Millgate, Wigan

What is it? An excellent example of how to breathe new life into a neglected 1960s Brutalist civic centre building and create a new workplace hub for the community.

The judges said: “The design and construction team carefully preserved the building’s original character, celebrating the features such as the waffle ceilings and the terrazzo staircases, while enhancing performance to deliver impressively low embodied carbon and operational energy performance. With the ground floor knitted into the civic square through a new public café, landscaping and terraces, the council-run building successfully fills a major void in the town centre and creates a catalyst for economic renewal.”

Projects up to 2,500m² Award: Chancery Place, Manchester

What is it? A project that shows how a small floorplate can be transformed into a multi-functional space with wellness of staff and client experience at the heart of its design.

The judges said: “The use of clever detailing in Overbury’s new Northern HQ produces an office that is both calming and dynamic. Curves and lighting are used to draw you seamlessly through the space, which is maximised through carefully considered modular furniture and movable partitions that provide distinct but connected zones. Ultimately, the project’s success is validated by its value for money and its 88% post-occupancy satisfaction rate. Chancery Place acts as a compelling showroom, demonstrating the professionalism, quality and standards of its occupiers.”

ESG Award: TBC.London

What is it? A model of contextually sensitive design, working within the constraints of the Tower Bridge Conservation Area, that sets a new benchmark for material reuse.

The judges said: “TBC.London is a pioneering example of ‘urban mining’ that has informed best practice guidance for the reuse of reclaimed steel. As well as retaining and adapting more than 70% of the existing structure, it uses 40 tonnes of salvaged 1930s steel beams. The project team actively sourced best practice and emerging sustainable materials internationally and implemented some products for the first time in the UK. The building also has the most impressive roof terrace encountered on this year’s judging tours.”

Innovation Award: The Renold Building, Manchester

What is it? A reinvention of a 1960s University of Manchester landmark as a multi-tenant innovation hub that is a living example of circular economy.

The judges said: “The transformation of this listed Brutalist icon was uncompromising in its commitment to sustainability, mandating that all tenants must work in the sustainability industry. A 71% reduction in embodied carbon was achieved by opting for refurbishment over demolition, further bolstered by the creative reuse of salvaged furniture and 100% recycled materials. The building also serves as a vital community interface, with £1.84m in verified social value and a design that prioritises neurodivergent-friendly, flexible zones. This is a resilient, inclusive and culturally rich exemplar of sustainable urban renewal.”

Customer Experience, Commercial Landlord Award: 40 Leadenhall, London

What is it? One of the City of London’s largest office developments, this 900,000 sq ft vertical neighbourhood has become a welcoming community.

The judges said: “40 Leadenhall sets a global benchmark for customer experience, seamlessly uniting hospitality, wellbeing, technology and operational excellence through a genuine one-team culture. Its data-led approach transforms occupier feedback into continuous, meaningful improvements, while exceptional amenities and community initiatives create memorable experiences and a strong sense of belonging. Service partners are fully embraced as part of the customer community, reinforcing a shared commitment to excellence. Through inclusive design, thoughtful leadership and genuine care, 40 Leadenhall has created an inspiring workplace where people feel connected and valued.”

Customer Experience, Corporate Occupier Award: GSK HQ, London

What is it? Bringing some 3,000 colleagues into central London, this wellbeing-focused headquarters was informed by extensive workplace research and data from more than 800 staff.

The judges said: “GSK has created an authentic, values-led London headquarters that brings its bold mission – to create the world’s healthiest workplace – to life. Wellbeing is embedded throughout the employee experience, supported by a clear strategy, detailed journey mapping and a robust change programme. From healthy food and movement to neuro-inclusive design, personalised support and outstanding concierge services, every element considers the whole person. Passionate teams and purposeful, well-used spaces enable people to connect, collaborate and thrive. Informed by workplace science and designed as a model for global adoption, GSK HQ is an inspiring occupier-led workplace.”

Judges’ Choice Award: Pixel, Penzance

What is it? A council-commissioned, purpose-built creative hub and shared workspace for start-ups and small creative businesses designed to revitalise the town centre.

The judges said: “Pixel delivers a transformative, design-led response to high street decline, creating a landmark creative hub that blends innovation with heritage. Its flexible, future-proofed studio leasing model actively supports Penzance’s creative sector, driving economic regeneration and community engagement while showcasing robust sustainability credentials. This project shows how corporate investment in close partnership with the local council can revive communities, champion sustainability and nurture business ecosystems.”

+++

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.

+++

Previously on e-architect:

4 Oct 2023

BCO Award Winners 2023

Barclays’ Glasgow campus was celebrated as the Best of the Best at the British Council for Offices (BCO) National Awards last night, also taking home the prize for Corporate Workplace. Seven further winners were recognised as leading examples of excellence in workplace design in the UK:

BCO Awards 2023

+++

7 Oct 2022

British Council For Offices Crowns The Best Of The British Office Sector

BCO Awards 2022

+++

3 Oct 2012

BCO Award Winners 2012

British Council For Offices Awards 2012 : Winners – Buildings + Architects

K&L GATES AT ONE NEW CHANGE NAMED BEST OFFICE OF 2012

Fusion of function and form scoops top prize at British Council for Offices National Awards

K&L Gates:

photos from BCO Awards

K&L Gates at One New Change, London, was named the ‘Best of the Best’ workplace in the country at the British Council for Offices’ (BCO) annual National Awards in London last night. K&L Gates was also named ‘Best Fit Out of Workplace’ in the UK, and topped a list of six other award winners recognised for excellence in office space.

• Best Commercial Workplace:
Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, London
Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF)
Heron Tower,110 Bishopsgate, London

• Best Corporate Workplace:
Greater Manchester Police Force Headquarters, Central Park, Northampton Road, Manchester
Aedas
Greater Manchester Police HQ

• Best Refurbished/Recycled Workplace:
Virgin Money, 28 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh

photo © Paul Zanre

• Best Fit Out of Workplace:
K&L Gates, One New Change, London
Ateliers Jean Nouvel with Sidell Gibson Architects
One New Change

• Best Project up to 2,000m2:
Creative Scotland, Waverley Gate, 2-4 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh

image from architect

• Innovation Award:
7 More London Riverside, London
BDP
7 More London Riverside

• Test of Time Award:
Fort Dunlop, Fort Parkway, Birmingham
shedkm
Fort Dunlop

K&L Gates’ fit-out of its One New Change office was singled out by judges for the boldness of the client in having the foresight to sign up early enough to integrate the fit out design team with the base build. This meant that they could design and complete the project during the main construction phase of the building, ensuring they created a workspace fit for purpose from the outset.

While throwing up a number of challenges, the finished fit-out married a functional and traditional cellular layout with an arresting aesthetic which centres on the stunning views of neighbouring St Paul’s. Testament to the success of the development has been the fact that the collaborative, stylish environment created has delivered tangible business benefits.

David Partridge, Joint Chief Executive of Argent and BCO Awards Chairman, commented: “K&L Gates has set an impressive example of the importance – and potential benefits – of keeping the ultimate end use of any project in mind as early as the base build. By getting involved at this stage, the occupier was able to adapt and influence a challenging building to deliver a highly effective fit-out, planned according to its own needs. The result is a consummately assured design which has had a positive effect on the business – showing the impact a successful new workplace can have on wider corporate objectives.”

Another notable winner at this year’s ceremony was Fort Dunlop in Birmingham, recipient of the ‘Test of Time’ Award. The ‘Test of Time’ Award, launched last year, is designed to recognise previous Award winners that have achieved the original objectives set for them, and displayed flexibility in being able to adapt to changing occupier needs over time.

Fort Dunlop, a previously neglected prominent landmark building, became a symbol of a regeneration failure in the outskirts of Birmingham before Urban Splash transformed the development into a mixed-use scheme comprising offices, shops and a hotel which still thrives today.

The site’s industrial past became a focus rather than a memory – in recognition of which Fort Dunlop was named ‘Best Refurbished/Recycled Workplace’ at the BCO Awards in 2008. All waste rubble was used to create new car parks, internal columns were used to divide up the vast space into small offices, and high ceilings were kept to compensate for narrow widths. To further boost the green credentials of the redevelopment, a sedum roof was installed and used to create a sense of community amongst the numerous occupiers successfully attracted and retained.

Richard Kauntze, Chief Executive of the BCO, said: “Against the context of another tough year for the UK economy, the office sector continues to demonstrate how it can deliver value beyond its core purpose. Businesses are increasingly reaping the benefits of workplaces that reinforce and reflect their corporate identity, improve efficiency in working practices, and boost staff morale.

“Every year we see innovation in design and technology – particularly to drive energy efficiency – embraced and then moved on even further. This year is no exception, which is all the more remarkable by the fact many were brought to fruition during the economic downturn. For this, every entrant is to be congratulated.”

The ceremony also saw BCO President and Deputy Chairman of the Wates Group, James Wates, recognise Gerald Ronson, CBE and Chief Executive for Heron International, for his outstanding six decades service to the commercial property industry.

For more information about the awards and the winners this year visit the BCO website (www.bco.org.uk).

+++

About the BCO

British Council for Offices (BCO), UK

• 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. Since inception in 1990, the BCO has provided thought leadership and best practice in all issues related to the creation and use of office space – through to its research, awards, conference and events programmes. www.bco.org.uk

• Forthcoming dates of note:
– BCO Awards 2013 Call for Entries (10 Oct – 30 Nov 2012)
– The Offices Summit 2012, in association with Estates Gazette (15 Nov 2012)
– BCO Intellibuild Conference (21 Nov 2012)
– Annual Conference, Madrid (15-17 May 2013)

• The National Awards judging panel includes: David Partridge – Argent (Chair), Peter Crowther – Bruntwood, Sara Fox – FOX&Co Consulting, Glenn Howells – Glenn Howells Architects, and Tim Robinson – Knight Frank.

• The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is ISG. Gold sponsors are Grontmij, hurleypalmerflatt, SAS International, Land Securities, Davis Langdon and Jackson Coles. Silver sponsors are Arup, Buro Four, Crest Nicholson, Foreman Roberts, mac-interiors, Mott MacDonald, Troup Bywaters + Anders. Bronze sponsors are: 5plus Architects, Brookfield and Couch Perry Wilkes. This year’s awards are in association with Estates Gazette.

+++