Moneypenny Wins BCO Award 2017

AEW Architects has won the Corporate Workplace Award at the BCO Awards in Manchester on 5th April 2017 with their project Moneypenny, Wrexham. The awards programme provides public recognition for top quality design and functionality and a benchmark for excellence in workplaces.

Designed by AEW, the new 91,000 sq ft head office was completed last year and has been said to rival the offices of Google and Apple and boasts a tree house meeting room, nature trails, vegetable gardens and even its own pub.

The brief for the project was to ignore the norm, rip up the rule book and create a space that inspires. The challenge was to create a happy workplace on a budget, and the achievement is clear for all to see. This project demonstrates that bespoke design does not necessarily have to be expensive.

The Award judging panel commented “Despite working within a tight budget, this building succeeds in setting a benchmark for the telecoms industry. Design touches, such as a tree house, demonstrate how fun can be functional, and that this spacious office has the wellbeing of the Moneypenny team at its heart. The judges loved the inclusive and collaborative spirit that shines through in every detail, right down to giving staff vouchers to decorate their own desks.”

Richard Kauntze, Chief Executive of the BCO, commented: “This year’s awards showcase the eminence and value of new office development. With Moneypenny, it is clear that the welfare of the workforce was at the heart of the approach and end product, and this focus has led to the innovative and cost effective design of numerous social spaces. Alongside the other buildings recognised at this year’s awards, Moneypenny sets a high standard of quality for future projects around the UK.”

The project team included Pochin’s Ltd, Hatrick Property as Development Director, Avid Property Consultants, Cundall, CW Studio and Todd and Ledson.