With rising costs and increasing pressure to meet sustainability goals, many are turning away from higher cost relocation or new build in favour of refurbishment, a strategy that delivers a higher return on investment (ROI), greater environmental benefits, and meaningful impact without the associated capital outlay.

Refurbishing regional offices

This shift is especially evident outside London, where regional offices often hold untapped potential. With a lack of new build development, refurbished offices are consequently set to surge in popularity, driven by occupiers seeking cost-effective ways to create environments that enhance performance and attract talent. However, undertaking a refurbishment is not just about saving money, it’s about repositioning and maximising existing assets.

A recent project for Smiths News in Swindon exemplifies this approach. Having taken the decision to remain in their existing headquarters at Rowan House, the newspaper distributor needed to reflect its desired transformation, not through a costly refurbishment, but via a strategic, design-led refresh that prioritised people, purpose, and performance.

Savills workplace & design and project management teams, part of building & project consultancy,  were appointed to lead the project, with a clear focus on creating value and delivering a workplace that supports wellbeing, collaboration, and operational efficiency. A simple yet strategic reconfiguration transformed the building’s underused central garden into a vibrant shared amenity. By creating access through the breakout area, the space became a destination, fostering increased community and connection.

Retaining existing elements that work, and introducing thoughtful touches

The starting point was to look at what worked, enhancing the positives and eliminating stress points. By retaining over 60% of the existing fit-out, including key operational spaces, the project minimised waste and maximised value, ensuring that investment was directed towards upgrades that improve the user experience.

Every element of the refurbishment was chosen to elevate the everyday – from acoustic improvements that support focused work, to natural materials that enhance comfort and wellbeing. Materials and furniture were sourced from UK-based manufacturers wherever possible, reducing transportation emissions and supporting local industry. These thoughtful touches, though modest in scale, collectively transformed the space into a more welcoming, functional, and future-ready environment.

Stakeholder engagement and an inclusive approach

Stakeholder engagement was central to the process. Collaborative workshops ensured the layout, finishes, and furniture were guided by the people who use the space daily. This inclusive approach extended to accessibility, with redesigned WC facilities, including a new, fully accessible bathroom.

As we know, refurbishment can offer a compelling environmental case. It avoids the embodied carbon of new construction and enables occupiers to focus on the key project drivers, in this case creating an exemplar staff workplace experience whilst meeting ESG goals.

Crucially, this transformation was delivered at a cost below the industry average for projects of a similar scope, clear proof that with the right strategy and design expertise, occupiers can unlock high-impact results avoiding high-end budgets. Refurbishment isn’t a compromise; it’s a conscious choice to build better, smarter, and more sustainably.

Further information

Contact Blair Boyle or Karl Broome