Credit: Allford Hall Monaghan Morris

A 100,000 sq. ft landmark office development in Newcastle upon Tyne’s heritage-rich Stephenson Quarter has been renamed to One Founders Place, aiming to reflect its gateway position in the area’s £137m regeneration. The development team is now seeking a pre-let partner that aligns with the project’s values and ambitions to create a planet-positive office space spread across 10 storeys.

Designed by RIBA Stirling Prize-winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, One Founders Place is set to be a climate-positive building. It aims to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’ status and Building with Nature certification, while maintaining respect for the area’s industrial heritage. The development will be situated near the site of George and Robert Stephenson’s first locomotive factory, established in 1823, making it a key part of Newcastle’s history.

The project rebrand comes as new research from Historic England underscores the economic benefits of linking cultural heritage with modern business developments. According to a study by Silvia Cerisola, areas with strong cultural heritage see better economic performance, with GDP growth linked to heritage integration. One Founders Place exemplifies this by combining industrial legacy with sustainable, modern design.

The building will offer natural light, panoramic views from outdoor terraces, and cutting-edge technological features, including all-electric heating and cooling systems, onsite renewable energy, and passive solar shading. It is also designed to meet Well Building Standards, promoting occupier wellbeing and environmental sustainability.

Brought to market by igloo Regeneration and Thriving Investments in partnership with Newcastle City Council, the development is part of the wider £137m Founders Place scheme. Joe Broadley from igloo Regeneration stated: “One Founders Place sits on an incredible location with an industrial legacy. We wanted to ensure the Stephenson legacy is reflected throughout the scheme while offering 21st-century technology and sustainable solutions.”

Newcastle City Council’s Alex Hay emphasised the development’s importance for the city’s future growth, adding that it is key to creating a green economy that preserves Newcastle’s proud heritage. Agents Knight Frank are handling the search for a pre-let partner. Patrick Matheson of Knight Frank called the development a unique opportunity for businesses that value sustainability, their people, and a distinctive workspace.

Located in the vibrant Stephenson Quarter, One Founders Place is close to the Tyne and Wear Metro and various hospitality venues, including the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Gin Bar, and The Arches Beer Street Micropub, with excellent connectivity to Newcastle’s cultural and retail areas.

For more information, visit https://www.ukreiif.com/ukreiif-2025/