Bupa UK headquarters, Salford

Our approach

The creation of a flexible and collaborative working space was a key driver for Bupa UK, having proved that healthy work spaces contribute to happy employees and an increase in productivity, thus benefiting their customers.

Fully glazed façades, together with a large central atrium, created light, open internal spaces and a vibrant working environment within. The atrium is surrounded by a mix of flexible workspaces from formal meeting and training spaces, to informal collaboration and sit-stand desk areas.

Using nature in workplace design

The design utilises principles of biophilia, forging connections between people and nature. The subtle earthy palette and use of organic materials throughout, create a calm and physically and mentally healthy environment for the building’s users.

Working in collaboration

Collaborative working is a shared value between Bupa UK and Morgan Sindall Construction, and a collaborative working environment really contributed to the project’s success.

The design team co-located with the Bupa UK team in an adjacent office building, to facilitate strong working relationships and flying start workshops were held to agree individual and shared project objectives, which the team could measure success at each stage of project delivery.

The whole scheme was designed and delivered utilising the latest BIM technology. The process created a fully collaborative design process from concept through to completion. Which provided greater programme certainty and reduced risk though the improved coordination of design, enabling all parties to better understand interface complexities.

The Bupa UK project was also one of the first projects to utilise Morgan Sindall Construction’s SIMS (Site Information Management System). The use of SIMS allowed the effective identification and communication of defects and meant that issues were dealt with in a quick and effective manner.

Social impact

With the Morgan Sindall Construction Manchester Office located just a stones-throw from the Bupa Place project in Salford Quays, this project was close to the heart of many who were involved in it. To be able to see the regeneration taking place in the area on a daily basis is something that the team were particularly proud of.

The team took part in the annual Open Doors events, which welcomes those from the community to take a look behind the scenes at a construction project, this was also supported by regular communications with neighbouring businesses as to the progress of the project. The team took part in a litter pick of Salford Quays, which was received positively by the community.

The building has been equipped so that Bupa can continue to manage the environmental impact of their operations long after construction. The building management system optimises equipment start and stop time, which stops energy being wasted unnecessarily.

The team have been excellent; a real pleasure to work with and their attention to detail is great. The client team are working well together and clear communication is in place between all stakeholders. The level of engagement is really helping to plan for soft landings and will ensure we can use the facility from day one.
Feedback from customer experience questionnaire