British Land has secured its first letting at the 340,000 sq ft mixed-use Norton Folgate development, located next to Spitalfields.
International law firm Reed Smith has signed for 126,800 sq ft at Blossom Yard & Studios, which is one of eight buildings that will offer office space, in addition to shops, bars and restaurants.
British Land intends to make Norton Folgate a net zero carbon development, with embodied carbon expected to be 434 kg CO2e per sq m at the time of completion, below British Land’s 2030 target of 500kg CO2e per sq m.
Andrew Jenkinson, London office managing partner at Reed Smith, said: “While literally just across the street from our current office, Blossom Yard feels a world away from the City. The events of the last two years have led to fundamental changes in the way we work together. This led us to rethink the space we need for the future and how we can use that creatively. Our people have more choice and flexibility in how and where they work than ever before and our new offices will be an attractive, vibrant and dynamic destination.”
Tamara Box, EME managing partner at Reed Smith, added: “We know our distinct culture is something that helps us stand out from our peers and this truly unique proposition embodies that difference. Blossom Yard reflects who we are – a progressive law firm with a prestigious history and a collegiate and innovative approach.”
Mike Wiseman, head of office leasing at British Land, said: “Businesses are sharply focused on the role of their workspace in promoting their brand and culture, attracting and retaining talent, and supporting their sustainability objectives. As a result, we continue to see excellent demand for best in class, well located and highly sustainable office space, which we are delivering at Norton Folgate and across our London campuses. Having achieved record office leasing levels last year, this momentum has continued, with a further 494,000 sq ft of office lettings secured in the first half of the year.”
British Land was advised by JLL. Allsop and JLL acted for Reed Smith.
