London & Urban Developments

Transforming London’s spaces

Innovating for the Modern City

While we are recognised for our expertise in new-build construction delivery, we also specialise in refurbishments and retrofitting, transforming existing structures into modern, sustainable, and functional spaces. We understand that the future of construction in London and other urban environments isn’t just about building from the ground up, but about breathing new life into existing structures. Our team specialises in transforming outdated and inefficient buildings.

 

From complex structural modifications and basement reconfigurations to façade retention and full Cat A, B and C fit-outs, we deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique demands of each project. By integrating innovative engineering techniques with a deep understanding of London’s heritage and planning regulations, we are able to preserve architectural character while enhancing energy performance by optimising building services, and improving the overall user experience.

 

Whether it’s repurposing heritage assets, retrofitting for net-zero carbon targets, or creating high-end office spaces that meet modern workplace standards, Glencar has the knowledge, experience, and collaborative approach to deliver exceptional results in even the most challenging inner-city environments.

What we do

We specialise in delivering transformative projects that redefine sustainability, functionality, and community impact. From intricate refurbishments and retrofits to new builds, we apply innovation and excellence to every aspect of construction.

Refurbishment

Refurbishment is often the most effective way to achieve your desired outcomes while reducing environmental impact. With policies like Westminster City Council’s new ‘retrofit-first’ approach encouraging developers to prioritise upgrading existing buildings over demolition, refurbishment is becoming an increasingly sustainable and forward-thinking choice.

Renovation

It doesn’t matter if you’re a developer, occupier or facilities manager – a building that doesn’t work for everyone will need to change eventually. Every day, industrial and commercial buildings are renovated. This can be light touch in order to repair damages, fix faults and improve on general site safety, or, it could involve substantial engineering work to ‘future-proof’ and take a building to the next level.

Repurpose

Another important workstream within refurbishment is repurposing. Our team can help you convert almost any type of building, within planning constraints, to be used to suit tenant needs/requirements. We can also act as a partner to analyse portfolios and bring buildings that aren’t performing up to structural or environmental standards.

Expansion

Often there is sufficient scope to expand on the existing footprint of your building. This can be a great way to maximise what you have without the need to completely rebuild or be limited by the current square footage.

Fit-out

Our fit-out expertise spans all levels of commercial interior transformation, from essential infrastructure upgrades to fully bespoke turn-key solutions. Whether revitalising an existing space, modernising a workplace, or delivering a ready-to-use office environment, our approach integrates state-of-the-art technology, sustainability considerations, and creative insight to ensure a future proofed solution.

The Challenges of Working in London

We understand the complexities of delivering projects in London’s dense and dynamic urban environment. Our extensive experience enables us to anticipate and overcome the unique challenges posed by central London construction, ensuring seamless project delivery with precision, efficiency, and adaptability.

 

Glencar delivers complex refurbishments and structural reconfigurations in London’s most constrained environments, managing challenges like restricted access, live operations, and strict compliance. Our close relationships with local authorities streamline approvals and enable us to secure essential permissions quickly. With precise logistical planning—using just-in-time procurement, traffic strategies, and specialist equipment—we minimise disruption and keep projects moving. Advanced planning tools and robust project controls ensure risks are managed and delivery remains on time and to a high standard.

What we have delivered

<
>

Ealing Studios

London

Client: Confidential

Programme: 18 months

Complex studio redevelopment delivered alongside ongoing operations within a constrained, operational urban campus… read more

<
>

IKEA Brighton

Brighton

Client: IKEA

Programme: 60 weeks

City-centre asset repurposed and fitted out within a live public environment, requiring phased delivery and careful interface management… read more

<
>

Big Yellow Self Storage, Staples Corner

London

Client: Big Yellow Self Storage

Programme: 70 weeks

Repeat-client delivery of a flagship, programme-driven London scheme on a restricted site, requiring early-stage ground engineering, coordinated structural delivery and adaptable internal accommodation… read more

<
>

America Street

London

Client: The Arch Company

Programme: 16 weeks

Adaptive reuse of historic railway arches delivered beneath live infrastructure within a highly constrained city-centre setting… read more

<
>

LHR21, Heathrow

London

Client: Confidential

Programme:

A 194,000 sq ft, 20MW data centre delivered within a constrained urban site, supporting the expansion of London’s digital infrastructure… read more

<
>

V-Park Grand Union

Wembley

Client: SEGRO / St George

Programme:

High-density, multi-level scheme delivered within a tightly constrained London site, requiring complex sequencing and logistics management… read more

Key Contacts

Our Customers