Redefining workplace standards in central Birmingham

THE ASPIRATION
Reimagining the modern workplace
In the heart of Birmingham, Railpen wanted to transform two underutilised office buildings – 2 Colmore Square and Cannon House – into a single, modern destination for work and leisure. The vision was ambitious: to create Birmingham’s most compelling workplace, offering outstanding amenities, improved energy performance and a seamless, high-quality experience for tenants and visitors alike. Central to the brief was the desire to deliver flexible, Grade A office space alongside active ground-floor retail and leisure areas, setting a new benchmark for city-centre commercial real estate.

OUR RESPONSE
Delivering complexity with confidence
We provided Project Management, Employer’s Agent, Cost Management and Principal Designer services for the redevelopment. Working within the constraints of two existing buildings in a busy city-centre location, we led the transformation from early coordination through to delivery. Key features included new dual receptions, a rooftop terrace, reconfigured basement areas and premium tenant amenities.

We addressed complex integration challenges. introducing air source heat pumps, heat recovery air handling units and destination-controlled lifts within the existing structure – all while maintaining a seamless user experience. Features such as a 100-person auditorium, co-working zones, communal meeting rooms, EV charging, cycle storage and high-spec changing facilities were all designed to enhance flexibility and wellbeing, as well as provide a first-class end of journey user experience. We also drew on our specialist network to support IT infrastructure, smart building integration, Fitwel compliance, branding and wayfinding.

THE RESULT
From fragmented to future-ready
Now rebranded as Multistory, the completed scheme unifies 7,000 square metres of Grade A workspace and 2,500 square metres of retail and leisure space. It offers Birmingham’s largest shared amenity space, setting a new standard for collaborative, user-focused workplaces. Ground-floor white box retail units and lower-ground retail space offer additional tenant flexibility.

THE LASTING IMPACT
Setting a new standard for sustainability
Multistory is redefining expectations for refurbished city-centre offices – combining thoughtful design with long-term sustainability. Achieving WiredScore Platinum, Fitwel 2-star and EPC A certification, the development supports Railpen’s ambitions for future-proofed, socially responsible investments.

Find out more about our multidisciplinary approach.