Plant (formerly known as Mountbatten House) the award-winning transformation of the Grade II listed in Basingstoke, has been recognised with a RIBA South Award 2026, celebrating an exemplary approach to heritage-led retrofit, sustainability and workplace design.
Last week, the winners of the RIBA South Awards 2026 were announced, with Plant in Basingstoke recognised among this year’s award-winning projects.
The project has transformed the Grade II listed Plant into a contemporary workplace while carefully preserving one of the UK’s most significant examples of post-war commercial architecture. Originally commissioned by paper merchants Wiggins Teape and designed by Arup Associates’ Group 2 between 1974 and 1976, the building is widely recognised for its distinctive terraced form and integrated landscape design.
Circle was proud to support the project as Project Manager, Quantity Surveyor and Clerk of Works, working alongside Longstock Capital, Mactaggart Family & Partners, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Grant Associates, Twelve Architects, Studio Knight Stokoe, Whitby Wood, CField Construction and Skelly & Couch to help deliver the building’s extensive refurbishment and adaptation.
Recognition for a remarkable transformation
Plant is recognised as one of the most important modern listed buildings in the UK. Both the building and its gardens received listed status in 2015, acknowledging their pioneering integration of architecture and landscape.
The refurbishment has carefully retained and enhanced the qualities that made the building significant, while adapting it to meet the expectations of modern occupiers. Extensive interventions have improved access to natural light, strengthened connections with the surrounding landscape and created flexible Grade A office accommodation designed around wellbeing, sustainability and long-term performance.
The restored gardens play a central role in the experience of the building, creating a workplace that blends seamlessly with nature while supporting biodiversity and climate resilience.
The jury commends the architects and the landscape architect for carefully preserving its heritage, enhancing occupant connection to nature whilst skilfully adapting it to climate challenges, net-zero carbon, and modern agile workplace requirements.
Setting a benchmark for retrofit
Our involvement began at concept stage, helping assemble the project team and supporting the development of the refurbishment strategy. Throughout the project, we provided integrated project management, quantity surveying and quality assurance services, coordinating design, programme, cost planning and project delivery. Working within a Grade II listed structure presented unique technical and logistical challenges. Through our integrated approach, we helped manage complexity while supporting the project’s ambition to create an exemplary commercial workplace that respects its heritage and environmental context.
Plant demonstrates what can be achieved when heritage buildings are viewed as assets for the future. Rather than replacing existing structures, the project shows how sensitive retrofit can unlock long-term environmental, commercial and social value while preserving architectural significance.
The award recognises not only the quality of the finished workplace, but also the vision, collaboration and commitment of the entire project team. It stands as an outstanding example of how existing buildings can be adapted to support modern requirements while reducing environmental impact and enhancing connections with nature.
At Circle, we provide integrated project management, quantity surveying, employer’s agent and quality assurance services, helping clients deliver commercial, heritage and regeneration projects with confidence.
