ONYX in Glasgow city centre has won the British Council of Offices (BCO) Award for Best Refurbished/Recycled Workplace in Scotland.
CEG managed a £5 million investment to reimagine the historic building last year.
The BCO judges recognised the ‘sustainable and creative’ approach taken by Glasgow-based architects, Cooper Cromar, on behalf of CEG.
The design team crafted a series of connected spaces within the building and helped save more than 40% embodied carbon. Judges were said to be particularly impressed by the new entrance projecting out into the streetscape, making the building ‘easily identifiable with a strong architectural presence’.
By refurbishing the existing building, the team was able to reduce the use of raw materials and limit the emissions that would have been generated through demolition and the production and transportation of new construction materials.
Equipment was upgraded and repurposed, while ‘innovative’ technologies have helped deliver improvements to energy efficiency. All of the project’s waste was diverted from landfill and electricity is supplied through a renewable energy contract. Tenants can also use cycle facilities and shower facilities to encourage sustainable travel.
Grace Lewis, investment manager at CEG, said, “It’s fantastic to secure the prestigious BCO Award for Scotland. We were delighted that ONYX was commended for setting a high standard for delivering sustainable workspace, as well as recognising the design quality and innovation, digital resilience and future-proofing approach we have taken. The win means we are now in the national shortlist against the highest quality office developments across the UK.”
Graham Forsyth, director at Cooper Cromar, added, “ONYX is the home of Cooper Cromar which made the design, and the award win, all the more special. The new facilities, including the café and cycling amenities, along with CEG’s approach to health, wellbeing and productivity of those based in its buildings, has created a fantastic working environment for our fast-growing team.
“The rejuvenated building has been delivered to the highest standard and, post-covid, we are embracing a return to the ONYX office.”
