Paradise Birmingham

By Dan Moorcroft, development manager at MEPC

Our latest commercial building stands as more than just a new landmark for the city or an essential addition to meet the demand for Birmingham’s need for commercial space: it has again been officially recognised as an award-winning piece of design and architecture.

Last week, at the prestigious BCO Awards for the Central and Midlands region, Paradise was honoured with the award of best Commercial Workplace for One Centenary Way.

This achievement is particularly special as it coincides with our very own Rob Groves’ Committee Chair’s Award.

Rob has been part of the Paradise story from the very beginning, in 2008, and has played an essential role in bringing the estate forward.

Arup’s fit out of One Centenary Way was also recognised, and they were commended by the BCO committee for the use of recycled materials, minimal energy usage and support for inclusivity through a series of flexible and neural workspaces within the building.

We are especially proud of these awards as they are selected by our peers within the development sector.

One Centenary Way is important for Paradise because it sets the standard for what will follow across the estate as we move to complete Phase Two and bring forward Phase Three. Creating not just a new destination, but a sustainable place that promotes active travel, recycling and repurposing, as well as cutting our carbon footprint, is a shared priority we have along with everyone who visits or works here.

As the city’s most important regeneration project, we have always been focused on delivering the best possible new destination for the city, with new connections, public realm and amenities, as much as job-creating office and leisure space.

But the sustainability of these new spaces also lies at the heart of what we are carrying out. And not just because our occupiers share this approach, but because it is the only way new development should be done.

While being part of such a transformative project has always been a reward, receiving external recognition serves as a testament to the tireless efforts of our entire team. From the design and construction teams to our valued contractors and subcontractors, each individual has played an integral role in bringing Paradise to life.

We send our gratitude to the BCO for their recognition, whilst recognising our Paradise journey is far from over and there is still more to come over the next few years.