Revitalising an icon for a new generation

Client: Star Grace Development Ltd
Location: London
Size: 247,664 sq ft

With half the building vacant following several lease expiries, Star Grace Development Ltd needed to reposition the iconic Richard Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners (RSHP) building for a new generation of occupiers. The brief went beyond cosmetic upgrades: modernise the space, improve environmental performance, and elevate the occupier experience - whilst preserving the original aesthetic.
Knight Frank was appointed to lead the transformation, working closely with Building Consultancy to deliver a solution that combined architectural sensitivity with commercial pragmatism.

The Transformation

The reception was fully reimagined to create a contemporary arrival experience, complete with a new communal business lounge and café that encourages informal meetings and connection. A striking 83 sq m living wall now anchors the space, softening the architecture, improving indoor air quality, and bringing an “outside-in” atmosphere that aligns with the building’s character.

Active travel and wellbeing were placed at the heart of the refurbishment. The end-of-trip facilities were completely overhauled, providing 233 cycle spaces, 233 lockers and 25 showers, including accessible provision. The CAT A floors were upgraded in partnership with Knight Frank’s Building Consultancy team, ensuring flexibility and modern standards for incoming occupiers.

Digital infrastructure was also futureproofed. A new fibre backbone was installed, allowing tenants to move in and connect immediately without wayleave delays - a change that helped secure WiredScore Platinum accreditation.

Placemaking and occupier engagement was driven through the Equiem platform, and the building now hosts one of the most engaged occupier communities in the UK, with consistently well-attended monthly events and active digital participation. A new communal multipurpose wellness studio is also being delivered for Q4 2025, featuring immersive workout classes, high-definition screens, music-reactive lighting and free 24/7 access for both individuals and teams.

The Results

The environmental impact has been significant. The building’s EPC has improved from D to B, and it has achieved BREEAM In-Use ‘Excellent’. Utility consumption has fallen by 20–25% thanks to the introduction of 4D monitoring systems, with further savings of approximately £80,000 per year expected once new AHU fans are installed - a change with a projected return on investment of just 2.7 years. Service charges have also reduced by a third since the height of the energy crisis.

Commercially, the repositioning has translated into strong leasing momentum. Of the space that became vacant, 60% is now either let or under offer, with further interest progressing. The building is no longer competing on legacy appeal, but on current relevance.

“The partnership between Star Grace Development Limited, Capital Real Estate Partners and Knight Frank is a genuine pleasure. The team is very responsive, provides considered advice and supports our clients in a proactive manner. This allows us to deliver the best results for our client and occupiers.” Star Grace Development Ltd

What began as a void risk has become a model for sensitive renewal. By respecting the original architecture while introducing contemporary amenities, digital capability and ESG-led improvements, the building has been repositioned for long-term performance.

The result is a modern classic - a high-performing, environmentally intelligent workplace that speaks to today’s tenants without compromising its heritage.

The Results: Key Takeways

• Achieved Wired Score Platinum with an installation of a fibre backbone allowing occupiers to plug and play without the requirement for a wayleave.
• Improvement of EPC rating from D to B
• Achieved BREEAM in use ‘excellent’
• 25% reduction in utility consumption following the installation of 4D monitoring, with further savings proposed once Air Handling Unit fans are replaced with more efficient models with a ROI of 2.7 years, saving £80k per annum (works on-going).
• Utility consumption has been reduced like for like by 20%, Leasing transactions currently showing Let/Under offer on 60% (of the vacant 50% space) with further positive discussion on-going, Service charge dropped by 33% since hight of electric crisis, EPC improvement from D to B.

To speak to us about an upcoming project, or to find out more about how we work with clients, get in touch with our team.