Moneypenny is a BCO Test of Time Finalist

Five years on from our last visit to the British Council for Offices (BCO) National Awards, we were delighted to attend the event once more in October. Having been a regional winner, and a national finalist, in the ‘Corporate Workplace’ category in 2016, we were proud to see our office scheme Moneypenny shortlisted in the Test of Time category.

The Test of Time awards “rewards previous BCO award winners that have proven themselves to live up to their original aspirations and intentions.” Moneypenny underwent a post occupancy evaluation and a visit by the BCO judges to assess its effectiveness in coping with occupancy requirements over time.

With future proofing a key element of the original brief for the building, flexibility and adaptability were built into the design. The bespoke building was designed to institutional standard and for maximum flexibility, features include:

• Office floor plates provide a clear 18m span on 1.5m grid to comply with BCO guidelines, which maximises layout adaptability and allows for cellularisation
• Multiple stair cores
• Split WC arrangements in a “super loo” format
• Desk service strategy, raised access floors, buzzbars and grommets provide flexibility of desk layout
• Externally the roof has space for additional plant and future installation of PVs
• Loose furniture was selected over fitted where possible to allow for easy relocation.

At the time of original completion, the second-floor shell was unoccupied but allowed for expansion into without adversely affecting the design or operation of the building. As they have grown, Moneypenny have subsequently moved to occupy this 2nd floor. Should Moneypenny need to expand again, the careful siting of the building within the extensive grounds means the potential to extend the building would also be possible in the future. Further testament to the scheme’s success is that the office provided adequate flexibility and space for social distancing throughout the pandemic, without unduly effecting business efficiency or operation.

We’re incredibly proud to see Moneypenny recognised in this way and that our designs have truly stood the test of time, both through the growth of Moneypenny and through the complexities brought about by the pandemic.

To hear more about Moneypenny or to discuss our work in the Office sector, please contact Director Phil Hepworth.