BBC Mailbox

State-of-the-art broadcasting house proves it’s worth the licence fee.

Our design featured a dramatic four-storey entrance space — linking the lower-level retail entrance with upper-level workspace — enabling visitors to see into the TV, radio and drama studios and editing suites.

We organised office accommodation into two open-plan wings, defined by lightweight suspended mezzanine floors or ‘gondolas’.

The offices face south, overlooking a canal side promenade.

Brief

  • design a modern interactive office environment
  • ‘open up’ the space to the licence payer

Results

  • a transparent showcase for BBC creativity
  • efficient servicing: the gondolas form flexible service spines delivering fresh air, power and data cabling
  • improved productivity: offices are bathed in natural light
  • award: British Council for Offices Award (Regional, National and Best of the Best) 2005

Facts

Location: Birmingham, UK
Client: BBC
Construction cost: confidential
Completed: 2004
Awards: 3

Integrated services

architecture, environmental engineering, structural engineering, interior design, acoustics, lighting

Links to images