Buchanan Wharf

Heron Bros Ltd was appointed as Principal Contractor for the CAT B fit-out of the Student Loans Company’s new headquarters within Glasgow’s Buchanan Wharf development. The project involved transforming a 75,000 sq. ft commercial shell and core space across five floors into a modern, high quality, and sustainable workplace for over 1,000 staff. Heron Bros delivered a comprehensive fit-out that incorporated bespoke partitioning, specialist joinery, acoustic ceiling treatments, advanced M&E systems, AV infrastructure, and biophilic features such as timber finishes and a feature living wall. All works were designed in accordance with Net Zero principles and targeted BREEAM ‘Excellent’ accreditation, demonstrating the company’s commitment to sustainable, future ready office environments.

The project presented several complexities, including delivery within a live building, a tight city centre site with shared logistics, adjacent construction activities, and high spec finishes requiring meticulous design coordination. Heron Bros implemented a phased handover strategy to allow the Student Loans Company’s operations to continue with minimal disruption. The office layout was carefully developed in consultation with end users to support agile working, staff wellbeing, and adaptability for future requirements. Detailed acoustic modelling, integrated technology, and collaborative design processes were key to achieving a high performing, flexible workplace.

Early procurement of long lead items, traffic and safety planning with local authorities, and sectional handovers enabled on time delivery one month ahead of programme. Challenges such as material cost inflation, extended lead times, tight logistics, and integration of client supplied technology were mitigated through early procurement, fixed price contracts, mock ups, and proactive stakeholder engagement. The project was delivered within budget and exceeded quality and sustainability targets, reflecting Heron’s collaborative, proactive approach and its ability to successfully navigate a complex, high profile fit-out in a live, urban environment.