BBG backs "Back to the City"

One of the City’s best known and longest standing media institutions, The Financial Times, has relocated back to its one time London headquarters, Bracken House in Friday Street, EC4.

The BBG team was lucky enough to have a privileged introduction to the building at last week’s “Back to the City” CPA (www.citypropertyassociation.co.uk) seminar. John Robertson Architects (www.jra.co.uk) outlined the history and design thinking behind the spectacular re-incarnation of the Brendan Bracken’s 1957 pink sandstone edifice.

Whilst Michael Hopkins’ timeless cast bronze exterior from the late 1980’s has been largely retained (given the Grade 2 listing) the interior has undergone a seamless re-design to re-connect the three original buildings, introduce light via the central atrium and incorporate a high spec, low energy specification. The introduction of a wellness criteria, local amenities and enhanced facility for a connected, agile working environment have featured large in the FT’s decision to move back from London’s South Bank.

A “fifth” elevation has been created with an extensive roof garden and perimeter running track enjoying views of St Pauls to the west and the Eastern Tower Cluster.

The FT’s move is the latest in a trend for media organisations to consider the City. Media giant McCann will be relocating to Broadgate in April next year whilst both Odgers Berendtson and Bloomberg have moved into central City headquarters.