TBC.LONDON

New net zero workspace is a beacon of sustainability

LONDON, UK

TBC.LONDON

RLB’s cost management experts played a central role in the transformation of a 1990s building on the south bank of the River Thames into one of London’s first net zero operational carbon workspaces. TBC.London, which overlooks Tower Bridge, is an exemplar project that demonstrates the highest levels of sustainable construction and energy efficiency.

TBC.London’s carbon footprint has been more than halved compared to a new-build by retrofitting the original five-storey structure. This sustainable approach not only preserved embodied carbon, keeping the project well within LETI guidelines, but also allowed for the seamless addition of three new floors. Working closely with the client, contractor and supply chain, RLB helped to deliver this project by finding innovative solutions to cut costs and carbon, such as recycling 56 tonnes of steel from the former House of Fraser store on Oxford Street and other sites in the region.

At a glance

  • Client
    FORE Partnership
  • Services
    Commercial Success, Contract Administration and Employer’s Agent, Project Management, CDM and Principal Designer, Sustainability
  • sector
    Commercial, Retail
  • Location
    London, United Kingdom

Highest building performance standards

TBC.London aims to achieve the highest environmental and wellbeing certifications. It intends to join a select group of only 29 UK commercial office buildings which currently have BREEAM Outstanding accreditation, and one of only 20 buildings worldwide to receive WELL Platinum, the highest award available from the International WELL Building Institute. The building is also expected to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate ‘A’ rating, and has been prepared for WiredScore Platinum certification, which will place it among the best-in-class digitally connected buildings across the globe.

RLB’s expertise in utilities helped mitigate on-site challenges related to the building’s electrical requirements. Formerly known as Tower Bridge Court, TBC.London will be 100% electric, sourcing its energy from certified renewable sources to power air-source heat pumps and in-floor cooling systems which are 30% more efficient than traditional systems. On-site photovoltaic panels will generate enough electricity to meet 7% of the building’s total energy demand.

“The RLB team’s proactive approach, meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to our shared vision were invaluable assets throughout the project. Their expertise in cost management wasn’t just about numbers, it was about understanding our ambitious vision and finding creative solutions to translate it into reality.”
Basil Demeroutis, Managing Partner, FORE Partnership

Designed with wellbeing at its core

Throughout the 90,000 sq ft of cutting-edge office space, passive design features maximise natural light. Smart building management technology optimises lighting, air quality and thermal performance, ensuring a comfortable working environment. There is access to planted outdoor spaces, enhancing the physical and mental wellbeing of the people who will work there while reinforcing the building’s eco-conscious ethos and connection with nature. The seventh floor, thoughtfully set back to frame Tower Bridge, features a generous rooftop terrace providing stunning views of the Thames and London skyline.

“We’re not just managing the costs of TBC.London, we’re investing in its vision. FORE Partnership’s commitment to a revolutionary workspace that prioritises social impact, environmental sustainability and tenant wellbeing aligns perfectly with our own values. As cost managers, we’re proud to contribute to a project that redefines the role of an office space, fostering positive change not just for its occupants but for the entire community. TBC.London’s success demonstrates the enduring strength of the London office market, and we believe it’s a beacon for the future of work, attracting not only global capital but also a new generation of forward-thinking businesses who understand the true value of a space that inspires and empowers.”
Paul Lonergan, Partner, Rider Levett Bucknall

Connecting with the community

A key outcome for TBC.London is to improve the social fabric of the neighbourhood. It incorporates an urban village hall, a 3,500 sq ft multi-use flexible space, which is available to charities, community groups and social enterprises, as well as the building’s tenants, to use free of charge for meetings, workshops or exhibitions. The social value delivered to the local community – in terms of tangible benefits such as job creation, skills training and local procurement – will be monitored and measured over the lifetime of the building. It has been independently verified that TBC.London should generate approximately £145 million in social value over 20 years of the building’s construction and occupation.