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Adapting to demand: A flexible plug & play solution
In Birmingham’s thriving business district, One Snow Hill stands as one of the city’s most iconic office buildings. As the market continues to shift towards flexible, high-quality workspaces, Union Investment saw a timely opportunity to transform a half floorplate, previously vacated by a tenant, into two flexible spaces – one speculative and one tenant-customised – that could meet the needs of today’s fast-moving occupiers.
Working alongside Knight Frank, CBRE and the wider project team, we partnered with Union Investment to bring this vision to life: two fully fitted, Cat A+ suites designed to attract modern businesses looking for flexibility, immediacy, and quality.
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Positioned for performance
The design brief was to create two turnkey workspaces that’s ready to let and ready to work. The result: two suites, each complete with open-plan desking, collaborative areas, a fully accessible teapoint, and quiet zones that support a range of working styles. From day one, the spaces were positioned as a premium ‘plug and play’ solution, offering incoming tenants speed to market and reduced upfront investment.
One of these suites was leased by Markel Insurance, who later appointed us to deliver a tailored Cat B fit out—building on the existing design and showing how ‘plug and play’ can be a powerful first step in tenant attraction.
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Built for flexibility
In a building typically associated with long-term corporate occupiers, this project showcases what’s possible when landlords embrace changing market dynamics. By introducing flexible, pre-fitted options into One Snow Hill’s offering, Union Investment not only elevated the building’s appeal but also demonstrated a proactive approach to market resilience.
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“‘Plug and play’ is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s becoming essential for landlords who want to stay competitive. This space shows how you can do it smartly, sustainably, and without overspending.”
Oktra
Tina Ridings, Senior Designer
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Cost-conscious
From the outset, we prioritised economic decision-making to ensure the scheme remained competitive without sacrificing finish. Ceilings were retained and repurposed, existing lighting was reused and supplemented where needed, and product selections were made with long-term durability and budget in mind.
Our approach demonstrates the value of creative reuse and efficient design, two critical levers for landlords balancing sustainability targets with commercial goals.
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Sustainable by design
In line with Union Investment’s ESG strategy, we worked with sustainable suppliers and opted for materials with proven environmental credentials. This considered design process allowed us to minimise waste and reduce carbon impact, while delivering a high-quality workplace experience.
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A blueprint for flexible spaces
The success of One Snow Hill’s ‘plug and play’ spaces is a blueprint for landlords adapting to new tenant expectations. With strong agency collaboration and a strategy grounded in flexibility, speed and sustainability, this project shows how proactive repositioning can drive occupancy and future-proof assets in today’s evolving office market.
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Landlord Portfolio
The landlord market is extremely competitive. Shell and core, Cat A and Built to Lease combinations provide landlords with the refurbishment options they need to get tenants in their spaces quickly. This booklet illustrates how Value Add and Built to Lease services are helping landlords make the most of their offering.
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Brief us
Send us your project requirements
020 7553 9500
info@oktra.co.uk
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