Co-Space Stevenage

Breathing new life into a tired 50s building in the centre of Stevenage, Co-space Stevenage now offers a flexible, design-led workplace that’s helping bring people and business back into the heart of the town.

Completed in 2024 for £1.5m, the Co-Space expansion forms part of Stevange Borough Council’s wider regeneration vision. Rather than creating a new standalone building, we worked with the existing structure, to protect the character of the conservation area and to deliver strong value for the client.

The brief focused on:

• Enhancing and expanding commercial workspace
• Delivering a design aligned with the town-centre regeneration strategy
• Working sensitively within a conservation area
• Creating a cohesive, attractive environment that elevates the existing Co-Space identity

The original mid-century building held potential but required thoughtful intervention. By retaining and extending the structure, we delivered an economically efficient solution with meaningful design impact.

Context & Challenges:

Set within the conservation area, the building’s façade, windows and internal layout where no longer suitable for modern workspace requirements. Respecting heritage constraints while improving function was essential. The surrounding town centre was also undergoing major regeneration, requiring a design response that integrated seamlessly with its evolving context.

We created a workplace that balances practicality with design character:

• Retaining the existing structure preserved value and reduced build time
• A naturally proportioned extension gave the building a stronger presence
• Improved entrances and clearer wayfinding strengthen its connection to the town centre.

Targeted architectural enhancements delivered maximum value with minimal intrusion:

• Refreshed facades and upgraded windows for improved performance
• Warm timber detailing to enhance identity
• A new roof for long-term resilience and visual cohesion

The project resulted in a contemporary, intuitive workspace that supports a thriving business community and contributes direcrly to Stevenage’s regeneration.

Inside, the extension introduces a calm sequence of adaptable spaces designed around different working styles and business needs, including:

• Daylit open-plan areas support collaboration
• Private offices provide quieter focus zones
• Breakout spaces to encourage movement, interaction and community

This design approach brings previously underused areas into active occupation, supporting local enterprise, improving footfall and reinforcing the town-centre economy,

The building now plays a more visible role in the wider regeneration effort, providing high-quality workspace within walking distance of key civic, cultural and retail amenities. Its uplifted façade and clearer identity contribute positively to the conservation area and the evolving character of the town centre.

Our sustainability approach focused on low-carbon retrofit and practical, fabric-first improvements.

• Re-use of the existing structure, significantly reducing embodied carbon
• Improved daylighting, use of existing thermal mass, considered orientation and natural ventilation to reduce operational energy.
• Use of durable, low-impact and responsibly sourced materials, including timber detailing to reduce replacement cycles.
• Flexible internal layouts allow the workspace to adapt over time with minimal intervention

The project has since been recognised with:

• Best Sustainability & ESG Award 2024 – Hertfordshire Business Awards

• Regeneration & Conservation Project of the Year 2025 – Herts and Beds Constructing Excellence