The Financial Times

Managing A Landmark Return

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Aura Consulting’s expertise was invaluable throughout our HQ project, from design to completion. They supported us in FM tendering, employee engagement, and move logistics. Their team integrated seamlessly with our business, to the point where it felt like they were part of our own team. I would highly recommend them

Spec

Brief

The Financial Times (FT) appointed Aura Consulting to lead the complex programme management of their relocation from 1 Southwark Bridge back to their original home, Bracken House. This Grade II* listed building underwent a total transformation to facilitate the FT’s return after a 30-year absence.

Aura provided a dedicated three-person team to oversee the end-to-end delivery of 250,000 sq ft across six floors. The scope was extensive, encompassing shell and core works, CAT A and CAT B fit-outs, and a sophisticated move management strategy to ensure zero operational downtime for the global news organisation.

Challenges

Modernising a Grade II Landmark – Delivering a state-of-the-art newsroom within a sensitive heritage environment required meticulous coordination. The project balanced the preservation of iconic features, such as the astrological clock, with the installation of modern energy-efficient systems.

Scale and Multi-Phase Complexity – Managing the transition from shell and core through to final occupation involved coordinating multiple workstreams and contractors simultaneously across a massive 250,000 sqft footprint.

Business Continuity for Global Media – Relocating a 24/7 global media organisation required a “business-as-usual” approach. Aura managed complex move logistics and staff engagement strategies to ensure the newsroom remained fully operational throughout the transition.

Highlights

Seamless Team Integration – Aura functioned as an extension of the FT’s internal team, overseeing the physical fit-out, FM tendering, and employee engagement. This “embedded” approach ensured the project was perfectly aligned with the FT’s corporate culture.

World-Class Amenities – The completed headquarters features cutting-edge newsroom facilities, internal courtyards linking the historic wings, and a landmark roof garden complete with a rooftop running track.

An Award-Winning Return – The project revitalised one of the City’s most famous buildings, creating a high-performance, sustainable workplace recognised by major industry awards for its excellence in retrofit and conservation.

Let’s Talk About Your Project

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