Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has delivered a new 60,000 sq ft headquarters for Connells Group in central Milton Keynes, uniting teams that had been dispersed across four separate offices into a single hub at Witan Gate House.

Acting for Connells Group, LSH's Project & Building Consultancy oversaw the programme from the initial workplace strategy and building selection through to design, procurement and final delivery of the scheme at Witan Gate House.

The work began with a comprehensive review of Connells Group's regional office portfolio. In partnership with workplace specialist WK Space, LSH analysed how space was being used and engaged with key stakeholders to define the future requirements for space, facilities and the working environment.

Following this, LSH's Office Agency conducted a search for suitable premises and secured approximately 60,000 sq ft across three floors at Witan Gate House in the heart of Milton Keynes.

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Rather than a traditional corporate HQ, the brief focused on creating a destination workplace built around collaboration, connection and employee wellbeing. After a competitive tender run by LSH, Woodhouse Contracts was appointed to deliver the scheme. Working together, the team established the 'Touches of Home' concept, translating Connells Group's purpose of Making Homes Happen into the fabric of the workplace.

The completed headquarters blends the functionality of a modern office with residential-inspired settings. Living room-style meeting and collaboration areas sit alongside kitchen-inspired breakout spaces, while quieter study and learning zones offer varied environments to support different ways of working.

Throughout, LSH managed the construction contract, design development, cost control and quality assurance, stewarding the project from inception through to completion and Connells Group’s occupation of the building.

Dudley Cross, National Head of Project & Building Consultancy at LSH, said: "This was an opportunity to create something that went far beyond a conventional office refurbishment. Connells Group had a clear ambition to create a headquarters that reflected both its people and its purpose, and that ambition has shaped the project from the outset.

"The result is a distinctive workplace that brings teams together, supports different ways of working and puts employee experience and wellbeing at its heart. It was a genuine pleasure to work with such an engaged client team and an excellent delivery partner in Woodhouse Contracts to bring that vision to life."