29th January 2021

Bracken House Shortlisted for AJ Retrofit Award in the ‘Listed Building £10 million and over’ category

Bracken House has been shortlisted for an AJ Retrofit Award in the ‘Listed Building £10 million and over’ category. The awards are held by the Architects’ Journal to recognise and celebrate well-designed sustainable projects and promote material and structural reuse in the built environment.

JRA carried out the major retrofit of grade II* listed Bracken House for client Obayashi Corporation. Originally designed by Sir Albert Richardson as The Financial Times headquarters and later remodelled by Michael Hopkins and Partners in the high-tech style, JRA unified the two designs and upgraded the building to meet 21st century standards. Key interventions included creating internal courtyards between the historic wings and the newer floorplates, new lighting and adaptations to the atrium roof, enlargement of the entrance halls, and all new efficient services. JRA also created a large roof terrace for occupants, which features natural planting and a running track with exceptional views of St Paul’s Cathedral. The team’s approach was centred on re-use and energy efficiency was improved building-wide. Since completion, the FT has returned to Bracken House as its headquarters.

Winners will be announced on 24th February at a digital ceremony.