TBC.London

Operations manager Matt Adams explains the guiding net zero vision for the building's adaptive reuse

We worked with investment firm FORE Partnership to transform an out-of-date 1980s office building next to Tower Bridge into one of the UK’s most sustainable and healthy offices.

Reflecting FORE’s commitment to retrofit first rather than rebuild, the existing five-storey building was stripped back and renewed through a deep refurbishment, preserving the embodied carbon in the frame. Two floors were added, with a third additional floor set back from Tower Bridge to create a terrace and club room with views over London (below).

View from TBC.London

All tenants have direct access to this outdoor space through terraces, balconies, and gardens. The ground floor also incorporate a flexible, 3,000 square feet multi-use space that will be available for community uses.

Net zero carbon in operation

TBC.London is 100% electric and net zero carbon in operation, with no fossil fuels used in running the property. Designed by architect Stiff + Trevillion, the project is EPC A and BREEAM 'Outstanding', the highest possible environmental assessments.

The building is also targeting WELL Platinum, the highest rating under the WELL Building Institute’s certification programme, a global rating system which serves as a marker of healthy building design. Only around 30 offices across the globe have attained a Platinum rating, and combined with the target BREEAM score, TBC.London is aiming to be one of Europe’s greenest, healthiest buildings.

TBC.London: overview and challenges

• Complex Site: Located next to Tower Bridge and a Grade II listed building, the site presented logistical challenges and required careful monitoring to avoid damage to historical structures.
• Adaptive Reuse: The project involved retaining and repurposing the existing concrete frame of a 1980s office building, rather than complete demolition. This approach prioritised sustainability and embodied carbon reduction.
• Innovation: The project embraced innovative solutions, such as the QFlow app for tracking embodied carbon and waste, and the use of recycled steel.
• Space Constraints: The limited site footprint meant 'Just-in-Time Deliveries' were essential in this constrained environment.

A skills legacy

Our ‘Building Lives’ skills academy at TBC.London provided local people with training that will lead to qualifications and jobs within the construction industry.

A key part of the strategy for TBC.London was to create space where social enterprises and community groups can come together with tenants to build stronger relationships within the local area and tackle systemic change to deep-seated social issues. The ground floor will incorporate a flexible, 3,000 square feet multi-use space that will be available for community uses.

Basil Demeroutis, Managing Partner, FORE Partnership, said:

“We selected Willmott Dixon because they share our deep commitment to sustainability. In particular, their efforts to be carbon neutral and their positive work in engaging with the communities in which they work set them apart and is wholly aligned with our own values and approach. We now look forward to starting on site and taking this exemplar project forward.”

The building lies in an attractive position on the south bank of the River Thames. Close to London Bridge, Tower Hill tube, Fenchurch Street and Bermondsey stations as well as St Katharine's Pier, it has great connectivity within and beyond London.