Corporate Architecture Limited has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Prime Life, a provider of health and social care services operating over 60 purpose-built care homes, for more than 15 years. This latest project involved designing a three-storey speculative office building in Market Harborough, Leicestershire. With a total area of 1,784 sqm, the building was designed to a CAT A fit-out standard, ready for tenant occupation. The brief called for open-plan office spaces with ancillary areas, incorporating flexible mechanical and electrical systems to allow for tailored tenant layouts.

This bespoke design serves as a flagship structure within the broader Rockingham Road estate, which has been entirely designed by Corporate Architecture.

Cost-efficiency was a key consideration during the project’s feasibility stage. As part of a comprehensive value engineering process, Corporate Architecture collaborated closely with the Structural Engineer (CDS) to evaluate the most economical structural strategy. This included a detailed comparison between traditional masonry and a steel primary frame with structural framing infill. Budget estimates for each approach were prepared with input from the Quantity Surveyor, enabling a thorough analysis to determine the optimal financial and practical solution.

Ultimately, the steel primary frame with structural framing infill was chosen, meeting both the aesthetic and operational requirements of the project while ensuring that cost and build programme considerations were prioritised.

Planning permission has been granted for the scheme, allowing Prime Life to actively market the building to prospective tenants. All pre-commencement planning conditions have been discharged, ensuring that construction can begin immediately upon securing a tenant. Additionally, building regulations approval has been obtained based on the construction documentation, paving the way for a seamless transition to the construction phase.