Republic is a powerful example of sustainable regeneration—transforming a neglected 1990s office campus into a vibrant, low-carbon destination. Originally conceived as a progressive workplace hub, the development has since evolved to host university campuses, co-working spaces, and a mix of retail and leisure—demonstrating the long-term adaptability built into its design from day one.

Working with Trilogy Property, we focused on retaining and reimagining the existing structure—reducing embodied carbon while unlocking new commercial value. Ground floor layouts were made porous and flexible, with new transparent façades that connect directly to a revitalised public realm rich in planting, natural materials, and open water.

Light-touch architectural moves—combined with natural, low-carbon materials—expanded lettable space and shifted the site’s identity from inward-looking and austere to open, human-scaled, and welcoming.

Crucially, the project’s design resilience has allowed it to evolve with changing market demands—transitioning seamlessly from office-led to education-led use. This kind of spatial flexibility extends the building’s lifespan, maximises ROI, and keeps options open for the future.

Republic proves that thoughtful retrofit can be sustainable, cost-effective, and inherently future-ready

Original design by Dickon Hayward while at Studio RHE, with on-going by Material Works.