Case Studies

2 Charlotte Place, Southampton

The Challenge

2 Charlotte Place was a new speculatively built office developed in 2006. Following vacant space marketed for a number of years, Kingsbridge Estates purchased the property in November 2019. Under new ownership, Kingsbridge Estates instructed Realest to provide recommendations on latest office layout, fit out trends & ESG. They subsequently appointed Realest on Project Management and Office Agency.

The Brief

Reconfiguration of office and common areas to create a landmark, Grade A office building and offer sustainable and dynamic business space to appeal to the local market.

What We Did

Project management of various improvements to the building including the extension and reconfiguration of the reception area to form a state of the art business centre, new glazed reception and associated improvement works to create improved access and way finding, collaborative spaces, additional shower changing facilities, secure bicycle shelter and electric car charging points.

We also project managed a number of CAT A, CAT A+ and CAT B fit outs for vacant office space for new occupiers.

The sustainability improvements raised the building’s Energy Performance Rating (EPC) from C to B.

Proactive marketing including a branded website, use of social media and specialised agency portal to manage enquiries.

The Difference

Realest provided practical hands advice at Director level advice throughout the whole process, including collaboration between the Agency and Building Consultancy business lines. The flexibility offered for new tenants has allowed the building to be occupied both by long-term occupiers and those on “plug and play” short term leases enabling the landlord to minimise voids. The standard of refurbishment has created much needed prime office space for the city centre, with excellent travel connections.

Since the works completed the nine-storey, 80,000 sq ft building attracted a string of lettings bringing the building to full occupancy for first time since it was built 20 years ago.

The Team

Realest – Robert Haynes (Building Consultancy), Steven Williams (Agency)

Kingsbridge Estates – Rachel Lacklinson (Asset Manager)

Customer

Kingsbridge Estates

Scope

Project Management, Agency

Services

Building Consultancy, Agency

Sector

Real Estate

Our work at 2 Charlotte Place is a prime example of our commitment to creating exciting and dynamic spaces, adding value to a local landmark building and creating an exceptional office environment. Having recognised the huge potential of the building, our significant investment proved instrumental in bringing high calibre businesses into the heart of Southampton. We are proud to have reached complete occupancy and look forward to playing our part in the continued success of all the businesses that have made 2 Charlotte Place their home.

Rachel Lacklison

Asset Manager