BDG architecture + design, sealed its position as the leading innovative force in the workplace design sector, winning the National Award fro Innovation at this years British Council for Offices Property Awards for Ogilvy UK at Sea Containers. Earlier in the year BDG won the Innovation category in London for Sea Containers, as well as the North of England region of the BCO for Sky Digital Centre of Excellence. The prestigious BCO awards programme only recognises the highest quality developments and sets the standard for excellence in the regional and national office sector. Once a dilapidated and unloved building, the judges were impressed with the transformation of Sea Containers into a dynamic and creative workspace for Ogilvy & Mather and their associated businesses. Innovative changes to the structure have created a series of double height spaces that connect the floors, but also take maximum advantage of the dramatic external environment of the Thames which sits immediately adjacent.

Flooded with daylight, the judges highlighted how these spaces define the building and have become natural hubs for staff interaction, allowing the creativity of the business to flourish. Since relocating to Sea Containers in 2016 the advertising agency has found itself amidst a flurry of new business success, having successfully captured some of the UK’s largest accounts in Boots & Vodafone . The structure of the teams for these new client’s hold collaboration with WPP at their core – all made possible by the bespoke structure of Sea Containers. Gill Parker, CEO at BDG architecture + design, said: “We are thrilled to be recognized in the coveted Innovation category. It is hugely rewarding to work with clients such as Ogilvy and SKY who place innovation at the heart of their business and value the BDG approach to evidence led design that puts culture and business purpose at the core of the workplace. “

Nigel Clark, Chair of the BCO National Judging Panel, commented: “This year’s winners are a study in how Britain has maintained its position at the forefront of the global office sector. Each building is both adaptable and robust, providing occupiers with the flexibility they need to ensure the wellbeing and productivity of their workforce.” Richard Kauntze, Chief Executive of the BCO, commented: “This year’s awards nominees have impressed across the board with their commitment to sustainable and innovative design. London has played host to a record number of award winners this year, affirming why businesses from across the world come to the capital. Congratulations to all nominees, our highly commended entrants and, of course, the award winners themselves.”

Design: BDG Architecture + Design