Refurbishment of grocer’s support centre complete

A Midlands-based interior design consultancy has completed the refurbishment of a new central Co-op support centre in Lichfield.

Office Principles North has delivered 32,000 sq ft of hybrid workspace over three floors securing the Co-op’s presence in the city.

The property features event spaces, themed meeting rooms and areas for focused activities.

A breakfast bar and dining area doubles as a social and entertainment space and there is also an outdoor terrace space on the building’s third floor.

Tina Batham, joint managing director of Office Principles North, said: “It has been a huge pleasure to work in partnership with Central Co-op to deliver its new Lichfield support centre. Together, we’ve created a modern, sustainable workplace that embodies the organisation’s culture and values and cements its place in the heart of the local community. The design has been shaped by Co-op colleagues and succeeds in fusing functional and creative spaces that promote both hybrid and collaborative ways of working. The project has undoubtedly enhanced Central Co-op’s existing property portfolio.”

Office Principles North has reused materials wherever possible, including reupholstering 80% of existing furniture and a focus on energy efficiency has secured an EPC ‘A’ rating.

Alongside the CAT B works, the contractor has completed the CAT A refurbishment of a 12,460 sq ft space, intended for sublet by the Co-op.

Liz Hanshaw, head of change at Central Co-op, said: “With sustainability being so core to our purpose, we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved, with a modern, light and airy space where colleagues can be at their very best to make a difference for Members and customers.  Not only have we created modern, convenient spaces where colleagues can work collaboratively together, we’ve also created a place where we can proudly host our events such as our members meetings, in the heart of the city centre.”