Pipeline projects: five new schemes get the green light
We spotlight a selection of forthcoming projects across architecture and design set to make their mark on the commercial sector.
Images via BDP
Images via Sheppard Robson
Sheppard Robson plans to overhaul major Edinburgh office block
Architecture firm Sheppard Robson has set its sights on Calton Square, a city-centre office building originally designed by Allan Murray Architects in 2002. Proposals include remodelling the structure to increase its footprint by around 6,000 sqm, while retaining 88% of the existing frame in an adaptive reuse approach. The firm’s plans also respond to overheating issues caused by large portions of glazing, as well as a less than dynamic layout split along a central access: in its place, a triple-height atrium with a new timber roof would repurpose an under-loved internal courtyard, alongside a reception area with modern coworking, lounge and café spaces.
“Our design approach has been to integrate the building into its unique location, creating a seamless transition between the city’s Old and New Towns,” says Mark Kowal, partner at Sheppard Robson. “The goal is to reposition the existing building by creating an exemplary adaptive reuse project that excels in environmental performance and becomes an asset to the community.”
Images via BDP
BDP sets out plans for Manchester co-living development
Marking what would be BDP’s tallest building in the UK to date, the Northern architecture firm has unveiled its proposals for a 46-storey tower in Salford, Greater Manchester, which are set to go to planning committee in September. Alongside backers PL North Bridge, BDP have proposed a tower consisting of 568 co-living units, just a stone’s throw from Manchester Cathedral and the River Irwell. This new scheme would see the site (which is currently used as a temporary car park), offer compact 25 sqm studios, sporting facilities and roof terraces to a growing demographic of young professionals across the city who are seeking affordable rental properties.
Another key part of BDP’s proposal is the activation of three disused railway arches on Gorton Street that would neighbour the tower, submitted as a separate planning application. Here, local cafés, bars, breweries, markets or galleries are envisioned as bringing further value to Salford’s ongoing project for the Greengate Regeneration Area.
Image via Lamington Group
Image via room2 York
Lamington Group expands portfolio with net-zero room2 York
With site development beginning this summer, the latest branch of hometel brand room2 is set to open its doors to the public in early 2026. This will mark the award-winning eco hotel company’s first outpost in the north of England, operated by B-Corp real estate investor and developer Lamington Group. The £30 million project is located within York’s castle walls and will continue the ambitious sustainable credentials the room2 brand has become known for. Set to be fully electric, the property will also boast solar roof panels, ventilation controlled by CO2 sensors and showers fitted with wastewater heat recovery.
Based around a concept of ‘modernising medieval’, the interiors will reportedly take inspiration the city’s architectural heritage, through details such as reclaimed timber flooring and restored joinery as well as recycled textiles and bold, artistic wallpaper. The room2 scheme is set to include 116 guestrooms, meeting spaces, a gym and Winnie’s – a cafe and bar concept specialising in local, home cooked food.
Zedwell London
Edinburgh site
Zedwell secures fifth regional site with approved Edinburgh hotel
Adding to the hotel brand’s pipeline of 22 upcoming projects, Zedwell has received the go-ahead for its first Scottish outpost. The new hotel will occupy the former Debenham’s department store on Princes Street in Edinburgh, which was bought by Criterion Capital, the company behind Zedwell. This news follows the brand’s successful proposal for a 187-key stay in Manchester, which was approved in January 2024, as the Zedwell expands its portfolio outside of London. One of the hotel’s signatures is its ability to deliver windowless rooms that are still desirable, as well as extensively using natural and recycled materials throughout the interiors – both of which guests can expect to see in the upcoming Edinburgh site.
“Edinburgh remains the best performing hotel market in Europe,” explains Kerr Young of real estate agent JLL, who advised on the transaction. “We are very excited to facilitate the entry of a new hotel concept such as Zedwell, which will support the adaptive reuse of a strategically important property located in the heart of the city centre.” Construction has begun on the Princes Street site and is expected to open in early 2026.
Image by Assael Architecture
John Lewis’ first residential project receives approval
First announcing its plans to become a residential landlord in 2021, in July this year the London Borough of Bromley gave John Lewis Partnership the green light on its first build-to-rent development. The approved scheme will see 353 energy-efficient rental units constructed on the site of its Bromley Waitrose supermarket, ranging from one- to three-bedroom apartments – a portion of which will be designated as ‘affordable homes’. Priority to view and rent the units will additionally be given to those already living and working in Bromley, in hopes of boosting the local economy.
As well as the 353 new homes, the new development promises shared fitness facilities, communal spaces for remote working, a café and public green space open to school and local community groups to use. Cycle lanes and pedestrian walkways have also been proposed to connect John Lewis’ development to key attractions in the surrounding area, including the railway station and high street.
