Setting a New Benchmark in Sustainable Office Fit-Out

At Parkeray, we’re proud to have delivered one of our most ambitious and sustainable workplace fit-outs to date on behalf of Grant Thornton UK. Relocating after more than 20 years, Grant Thornton viewed its move to 8 Finsbury Circus as far more than a change of address, it was an opportunity to reimagine what a future-focused, people-centred office could be. The result is a bold transformation of 100,000 sq ft across seven floors, setting a new benchmark for sustainable office design and fit-out in the UK.

A Strategic Framework for Sustainable Office Design

Working in close collaboration with Grant Thornton UK, JLL, BEYOND Sustainability and architects HLW, the project was shaped around a clear sustainability framework focused on carbon reduction, circularity, wellbeing, community impact, biophilic design and supply chain equity.

This approach delivered exceptional outcomes, including a 79% reduction in embodied carbon, a 23% reduction in operational carbon, and the reuse or donation of 82.7% of furniture. More than 2,300 items were donated to ten local schools, ensuring zero waste to landfill.

Sustainability by Design: A Reuse-First Fit-Out

From Stage 2, our team and delivery partners adopted a reuse-first mindset, auditing existing assets and designing creatively around them. Highlights included reassembling a six-metre bar into a new café space, reusing structured cabling across five floors, and retaining major communications infrastructure.

In total, we achieved 100% reuse of raised access flooring, 57% reuse of finishes, and 82% furniture reuse, significantly reducing embodied carbon while maintaining quality and performance.

Inclusive, People-First Spaces

People were central to every decision. Extensive staff consultation and input from Grant Thornton’s disability steering group shaped a workspace that supports neurodiversity, accessibility, sensory comfort and wellbeing, from prayer and reflection rooms to community-focused social spaces.

Building a Responsible Supply Chain

By limiting suppliers to a 100-mile radius, 78% were local businesses and 70% SMEs or diverse-owned companies, strengthening social value while cutting emissions.

A Blueprint for Change

This project proves that sustainable workplace design and fit-outs can deliver meaningful environmental and social impact without compromise. With bold goals and the right partnerships, it’s possible to create inspiring, low-impact workplaces that benefit both people and the planet.

Watch the Docuseries: The Shift Starts Here

Discover the story and the collaboration behind this innovative project in our new docuseries here.