News

We have recently been involved with two buildings providing a seamless blend of contemporary, traditional and Covid safe offices in the heart of the City of London: –

Austin Friars, EC2 was an Augustinian friary in the City of London from its foundation, probably in the 1260s, until its dissolution in November 1538. It covered an area of about 5.5 acres to the north-east of the modern Bank of England and had a resident population of about 60 friars. A large part of the friary precinct was occupied by gardens that provided vegetables, fruit and medicinal herbs.

BBG client and leading international lawyers Loyens & Loeff NV has recently leased the second floor of 15-18 Austin Friars, EC2 for its London HQ. Sited within the Bank Conservation area no. 15-18 has enjoyed a full re-modelling whilst retaining its magnificent Grade 2 listed façade. The new office entrance leads off a reconfigured courtyard. The offices allow for efficient, naturally lit layouts and the demands of distancing. Amongst expected building amenities such as VRF air conditioning and low energy LED Lighting the specification also offers first class sustainability credentials, a Cycling Score “platinum” rating and extensive shower facilities. The latest letting at the building has been achieved despite the challenges of Covid and is further evidence of the returning letting market. The practice will move in December 2020.

13 Austin Friars – a couple of buildings along from 15-18 Austin Friars, this smaller, but equally impressive building has undergone a comprehensive phased refurbishment behind its traditional Georgian façade. The new office floors have been fully refurbished to provide modern offices with exposed services and hardwood parquet floors. Each floor has its own kitchen and demised w/cs giving occupiers control over their office environment. The basement has also been carefully reconfigured to provide extra meeting space, accessible through the striking, retained old vault door. This is available on a first come first served basis and booked via an app available to all occupiers. The building also boasts a gym, equipped with a Watt Bike, rowing machine and treadmill as well as brand new bike racks and showers. BBG is retained as letting agents on behalf of asset managers, Fletcher King.

To learn more about the above buildings and/or how to combat the complexities of Covid in meeting your office leasing or flexible requirements please contact David Alcock or Fred Pope at BBG.

15-18 Austin Friars Link

13 Austin Friars Link