Birmingham City Council
Birmingham

When we first visited Birmingham City Council’s administrative buildings we thought the experience was like stepping back into the seventies.

Realising that it needed a radical overhaul, the Council had embarked upon a massive transformation programme and briefed us to create headquarters that staff were proud to work in, delivering services to taxpayers in more efficient and responsive ways.

By developing a deep and clear understanding of the vision and strategy of the Council we developed a new house style for all their administrative buildings, mindful of the social, economic and environmental issues at play in a public facing operation.

We created a series of interconnected environments - neighbourhoods - with accompanying breakout zones - village greens. This metaphor, along with the use of colour coding and clear signage, guides staff and clients alike to places they can meet or work in.

Everything is clean and fresh looking, rather than intimidating or ‘public sector’. Open plan working maximises natural light. Flexibility is designed in. And the use of space encourages dialogue.

PROJECTS:

• 10 Woodcock Street,
• Lancaster Circus,
• Lifford House,
• Council House demo area,
• New Sutton Road,
• Customer First Drop in Centres

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British Council for Offices Awards 2017
Woodcock Street  – National Winner – Test of Time

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British Council for Offices Awards 2010
Lifford House – Regional Award (Midlands & East Anglia) Winner – Fit out of workplace.

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British Council for Offices Awards 2011
Lancaster Circus – Regional Award (Midlands & East Anglia) Winner – Refurbished / Recycled Workplace

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British Council for Offices Awards 2013
10 Woodcock Street – Regional Award (Midlands & East Anglia) Winner – Best corporate workplace.

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British Council for Offices Awards 2013
10 Woodcock Street – National Winner – Best corporate workplace.

Click here for a short film produced by the team about 10 Woodcock Street.