The modern commercial development is no longer just a collection of square footage for desks. Landlords and workspace developers are tasked with delivering vibrant communities where businesses can attract top talent and build culture.
When Bruntwood SciTech developed Enterprise Wharf in Birmingham’s Knowledge Quarter, the goal was clear: deliver spaces that exceed expectations across the region.
2G Design and Build was appointed to bring our signature hospitality-led approach to two flagship schemes within the district: Bruntwood’s regional headquarters at Enterprise Wharf (EW1) and the ground-floor activation at EW2 (formerly iCentrum).
EW1: Designing a workspace with venue energy
Occupying the ground, 9th, and 10th floors of Enterprise Wharf, the EW1 project presented an opportunity to establish a new benchmark for workplace design in the Midlands.
Rather than relying on conventional corporate office layouts, the design balances functional working environments with venue-grade hospitality amenities:
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Rooftop social experience: The top-floor terrace and event spaces were created to mirror high-end leisure destinations, complete with flexible layout options for day-to-night events, community gatherings, and wellness activities.
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Bespoke breakout zones: Generous banquette seating, tactile timber finishes, and curated ambient lighting encourage informal catch-ups and collaborative work outside formal meeting rooms.
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Integrated amenity hubs: From on-site wellness facilities to breakout kitchens, every element was built to feel like an extension of a boutique hotel lounge rather than a traditional corporate office.
The result is a regional head office that acts as a powerful showcase for Bruntwood SciTech’s brand while offering employees an environment they genuinely look forward to visiting.
EW2 (iCentrum): Blending reception, café, and co-working into one sequence
At EW2, the design challenge was centered on operational choreography. The ground floor of a major tech hub carries a heavy burden: it must serve as building security, a public café, a co-working lounge, and an event venue simultaneously.
Standard office lobbies often feel cold and transitional, while pure hospitality spaces can lack the power connectivity, acoustic controls, and functional layouts required for professional work.
2G bridged this gap by designing a continuous, hospitality-grade arrival sequence:
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Unified joinery: Rather than separating the reception and F&B operations, a sweeping joinery element links the entrance directly into the central café and bar area.
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Zoned atmosphere: Using acoustic baffles, warm wood panelling, and textured seating, distinct sub-zones were carved out across the open floorplate to allow quiet co-working and lively coffee chats to co-exist.
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Lighting transition: Dynamic lighting design allows the space to transition smoothly from bright, task-focused morning light to warm, relaxed evening tones suitable for networking events.
Why the hybrid model works for modern occupiers
The success of both EW1 and EW2 proves that when hospitality thinking is applied to commercial real estate, building engagement increases.
By treating occupiers and employees as guests, developers create spaces that drive dwell time, encourage cross-company collaboration, and deliver long-term commercial value.
Redefining the modern commercial development
At 2G Design and Build, our integrated approach means that creative hospitality concepts are backed by full on-site build delivery. Projects like Enterprise Wharf demonstrate how thoughtful design and operational rigour come together to create workspaces built for performance, culture, and people.
