Gensler unveils ultra-connected, inclusive headquarters for Virgin Media O2.

A recent collaboration between Gensler and Virgin Media O2 resulted in the design of a London HQ underpinned by inclusivity, sustainability and ultra-connectivity.

Located in Paddington and spanning 81,750 sq. ft across 6 floors plus additional ground floor space, the new purpose-built home – which represents Virgin Media O2’s first major office investment since their merger in June 2021 and provides office space for thousands of employees to meet and collaborate – was designed with connectivity at its core.

The focus was to bring Virgin Media O2’s purpose – ‘see what you can do’ – to life. And Gensler’s design team achieved this through a "rewarding co-creative partnership", engaging closely with employee focus groups, DE&I representatives, and the in-house brand team.

Rodney Hogg, property director at Virgin Media O2, said of this: “Moving our London HQ to Paddington is an important milestone for us, providing a vibrant, state-of-the-art office space for our people to get together in person and collaborate, while also supporting our flexible working culture.

“Gensler and BW: Workplace Experts have more than met our expectations in the design and delivery of this bespoke site, with floors that reflect the entertainment services we provide to millions of customers and supporting our Better Connections Plan through being on track to achieve the highest possible levels of certifications for sustainability.”

With inclusivity as a key driver in the design concept, Gensler partnered with an accessibility and DE&I consultant throughout the process and worked closely with the client’s DE&I employee representative group to ensure the space caters to all. The resulting design sees each floor provide a customised destination for staff, recognising the varying needs of individuals and empowering them to select spaces that suit their preferences and the task at hand.

Alternative spaces have also been integrated including libraries, and comfortable seating areas for screenings.

Megan Dobstaff, design director at Gensler, commented: “Our design for Virgin Media O2’s new London headquarters captures the essence of their purpose by offering diverse spaces that empower employees to connect and thrive as a united community. By collaborating closely with the workforce and focusing on their experiences, we created an inclusive environment that inspires collaboration and sparks creativity.”

Gensler worked closely with the brand team to tailor the design to their purpose and messaging. The brand palette is clearly woven throughout the space, and each floor features destination zones which connect users with different aspects of their mission – ‘connect + inform’, ‘supercharge’, ‘perform’, and ‘transform’.

Inspired by Virgin Media O2's ethos of connectivity, these zones are themed around cultural threads of influence which connect individuals with their passions, encompassing activities such as sports, streaming, gaming, music, dance, and a versatile arena space.

Informal hospitality-led arrival points act as ‘supercharged’ moments on every floor, facilitating spontaneous encounters. This setup encourages informal connections with colleagues, before transitioning to workspace areas. The space plan positions everyone near windows, offering wellness benefits, and views, while the top floor houses a café, and a large event area.

Sustainability was also a key driver in the design with the office targeting WELL Platinum, and BREEAM Outstanding certifications. The Gensler design team integrated sustainable practices, including carbon tracking, resulting in approximately 630 tonnes of carbon saved through sustainable materials and strategies.

Existing light fittings were also reused and repurposed to minimise environmental impact. The project team included Gensler, BW:Workplace Experts, CBRE, MIX and Ramboll UK.

This scheme very much resonates with The Workplace of the Future outlined in Gensler's Design Forecast 2025 - download your copy here.