Birmingham Landlord Invests In Fresh Air, As Return To Work Looms
A Birmingham landlord is investing in improved ventilation in two city office buildings as the imminent return to work increases anxiety about Covid-secure workplaces.
Ergo Real Estate, acting for Aver Property/NFU Mutual, is behind a £1.6M first phase refurbishment at the 33K SF Charles House and 34K SF 154 Great Charles Street.
The first phase delivers a state-of-the-art antiviral lighting and air purifying system across two buildings, as well as an improved reception area.
Ergo acquired both buildings for £12M in 2019 on behalf of Aver Property LP, its joint venture with NFU Mutual.
Office Principles, the interior design business, has completed work on the first phase refurbishment.
Both properties have been fitted with FUZONE500, a lighting solution that harnesses antiviral and antibacterial properties to keep spaces clean and safe.
FUZONE 500 uses the natural properties of ozone to eliminate up to 99.99% of bacteria and airborne viruses without direct contact with treated areas and can be operated while the office is fully occupied.
“The pandemic has undoubtedly changed the way we work and the office has to adapt to meet those needs,” Office Principles Joint Managing Director Tina Batham said.
“Ergo Real Estate has invested in a comprehensive office refurbishment project that enhances the air quality and wellbeing aspects of both properties. It not only delivers modern office accommodation in the heart of Birmingham’s business district but provides a solution that guarantees to keep spaces clean and safe 24/7 in a Covid-19 world.”
A planning application has been submitted for the second phase of the refurbishment project, which would see the development of Birmingham’s first ever glass roof terrace. It would be accessible to occupiers in both buildings for meetings and entertainment.
Charles House and 154 Great Charles Street form part of the Great Charles Street Estate and are sited close to the Paradise and Arena Central regeneration schemes.
