Commercial – New Build – Bromley Hayes, Staffordshire

Following an initial change of use application for interim occupation, Phase 2 of the project proposed the comprehensive demolition of existing structures and the construction of two new purpose-built buildings. The scheme included significant external works to accommodate site-wide biodiversity improvements, parking areas, operational yard, and a UK-leading Wetland Science Centre championing research into freshwater and coastal wetlands.

Working closely with the client team from the outset, Urban Designs developed a site-wide masterplan based on the client’s initial sketches and aspirations. The design proposed two cost-effective, steel frame buildings tailored to the specific operational needs of the business, whilst providing flexibility for future expansion.

Building 1 – Approximately 1,450m² in size, this 9m high structure accommodated two large workshops, stores and drying room. The layout was optimised for plant movement and operational efficiency. To reduce the scale and impact of the building, the façade was innovatively clad in shades of green, and a living wall further enhanced biodiversity whilst providing a unique feature to the communal office gardens.

Building 2 – At approximately 1,150m², this building formed the company’s new head office. The design featured a prominent glazed entrance to create a striking, yet professional frontage with two timber-clad glazed wings creating symmetry whilst drawing back to the natural backdrop of the site. The internal layout allowed for maximised efficiency with multifunctional spaces, open plan office and purpose-built gym/changing rooms.

Throughout the concept stage, Urban Designs prepared sketch layouts and elevations for both buildings, responding to evolving client requirements and site-specific considerations. The proposals were further developed into a full suite of planning submission drawings, including site layout, floor plans, elevations, sections, and roof plans.

To support the planning process and client engagement, a series of high-quality 3D visuals and street scenes were produced, capturing the form, massing, and character of the proposed buildings from views along the adjoining highway. These helped to effectively convey the vision for the site whilst emphasising how the scheme sympathetically sat within the surrounding landscape.

This project demonstrates a pragmatic yet aspirational approach to commercial redevelopment, balancing cost-effective construction with the desire for a distinctive and functional headquarters environment.