16 GREAT MARLBOROUGH STREET

The building had started to feel fatigued, following decades of semi-industrial use.
In 2019, we pre-let the entire building to global drinks company, Diageo. They were looking for new European HQ and wanted to work together to create a flexible, inclusive and sustainable workspace for their 900-strong workforce. 
We needed to take a holistic approach in updating and expanding the building, whilst being sensitive to keeping it in harmony with its historic surroundings. We also aimed to keep carbon emissions to an absolute minimum during construction – and for the years ahead.

Through collaboration and determination, we retained and refurbished much of the existing building, transforming it into Diageo’s European headquarters.
Due to the lack of natural light, we enhanced the wellbeing offering by introducing a sloping glass façade from the first to the sixth floor, significantly increasing natural daylight in the heart of the building. We also added three new office terraces and two residential terraces on the seventh floor, improving access to daylight and fresh air.
By reducing the MEP plant on the roof and in the basement, we created space for a seventh floor, solar panels, a green roof, and expanded bicycle facilities, all while preserving protected views and enhancing the building’s sustainability and appearance.
We created more amenities that promote health and wellbeing, including a wellness suite, yoga studio, bars, and retail areas, while minimising carbon in the fit-out. The design features sustainably sourced furniture, energy-efficient appliances, and durable natural materials, such as timber used in the café, partitioning, and central staircase.