Developers offer glimpse of Birmingham office refurbishment
Developers have released new imagery showing what the transformative refurbishment of a former Birmingham department store will look like.
The refurbishment of The Lewis Building, occupying the corner of Bull Street and Corporation Street, is entering its final stages.
To give people an idea of how the completed scheme will look, LGIM Real Assets – the developer of the historic property in conjunction with Ediston Real Estate – has released a computer generated ‘fly-through’ of the building.
The refurbishment has seen the creation of 113,000 sq ft of new Grade A office accommodation, with the first six floors providing around 17,000 sq ft of space, with a further 12,400 sq ft on the newly-installed seventh floor.
The fly-through (see video here) gives a sneak preview of the top-floor extension, where the feature full-height glazing is now in place, and the contemporary Manhattan-style interiors including the stunning reception hall, which incorporates a variety of creative breakout areas.
Tom Williams, Senior Asset Manager, LGIM Real Assets, said: “Through this programme of refurbishment works, we are delivering a unique new asset to Birmingham’s office community. This fly-though provides a great opportunity for us to share how this space will be realised and showcase the high-specification finishes to the attractive new Manhattan-style entrance area.
“We’ve developed this building to appeal directly to the needs of today’s occupier whilst still respecting The Lewis Building’s heritage as a proud landmark within Birmingham city centre. We look forward to unveiling the finished building in autumn.”
With a key focus on sustainability and occupier convenience, the comprehensive renovation will provide secure, ground floor cycle parking for up to 60 bikes, shower and changing facilities and 74 car parking spaces. There is also an opportunity for operators to lease a new 1,450 sq ft independent café fronting Bull Street.
Peter Owen, Managing Director of Willmott Dixon Midlands, said: “The flythrough provides an accurate depiction of how the building will look when complete, allowing potential occupiers and the local business community to really visualise the transformation and the efficient new spaces.”
The Lewis Building has been designed by architectural practice EPR, with contractor Willmott Dixon undertaking the works. CBRE and GVA are the appointed leasing agents.
