Now we have unpacked the last few boxes and we prepare for our next chapter at One Bedford Street in Covent Garden, we sat down with Managing Director Joe Cutler to talk about what the new office really means for Circle. From team culture and project growth to memories of our old offices and naming meeting rooms, it is a reflection on how far we have come and where we are heading next.
Our new chapter begins
Q: Why was now the right time to move into a larger office?
A: In short, I can never get a meeting room! This is a nice problem to have, and looking back over the past six years, Circle has experienced tremendous growth — not just in the scale of our projects, but in the depth of our partnerships and the strength of our team. We’ve reached a point where our previous space simply couldn’t accommodate the way we now collaborate, innovate, and operate. Moving now felt like the natural next step to support our momentum and set us up for the next stage of our journey.
Q: What does the move to One Bedford Street represent for Circle right now?
A: The move to One Bedford Street represents a defining moment in our evolution. With our own front door, it’s a physical reflection of how far we’ve come — from a small, ambitious team to a growing company delivering some of the most exciting projects in the sector.
Q: What attracted you to the new office?
A: We wanted a space that felt as dynamic as the work we do, in a location that builds on our culture. One Bedford Street offers the perfect blend of energy, accessibility, and sophistication, right in the heart of London’s creative and cultural scene. It’s a space designed for connection and collaboration, which aligns perfectly with how our team works and grows. Beyond its location and design, we were drawn to the potential of the space, somewhere that could evolve with us. It gives our team room to grow, create, and collaborate in new ways, while providing the flexibility to support future ambitions.
Q: Are you looking forward to moving from St James’s to Covent Garden?
A: Absolutely! I will always look back fondly on our time in St James’s, we’ve been very fortunate to call it our home and it’s a big part of our story. But Covent Garden brings a new vibrancy that matches the stage we’re at now. It’s a hub of innovation and creativity, a great fit for our people, our partners, and the type of projects we’re delivering.
Building on our success
Q: What does this move say about the company’s journey and growth since it began?
A: This move is the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and belief. We’ve grown from a handful of people with big ideas into a thriving business with a strong portfolio, trusted partnerships, and an incredible culture. It’s proof of what can be achieved when you stay focused on quality, relationships, and a culture where people genuinely care.
Q: How does the new office align with your future plans for the business?
A: Our new home gives us the foundation to scale sustainably. It’s a place where we can continue to attract top talent, strengthen partnerships, and maintain our culture. The environment supports our forward-thinking approach — modern, open, and built for growth.
Q: What are some of the biggest or most exciting projects or sectors the team are currently working on?
A: We’re fortunate to be involved in several landmark projects in the living sector, with Co-Living seeing the most significant growth over the past 12 months. We are at the forefront of this sector and are currently engaged on over 4,500 co-living apartments across London and the South East. The breadth of our involvement across this sector has allowed us to focus on what makes an efficient co-living building.
Our team are also busy in BTR, PBSA, Office Cut & Carve, Education and, most recently, Industrial & Logistics, where we expect to see significant growth in the next chapter. There’s also a real buzz around our Carbon Management work in sustainable development and regeneration, areas where we can make a lasting impact on communities and the built environment by making the right choices and reusing existing buildings.
Q: Are there any specific goals or ambitions you’re excited to tackle from this new base?
A: Yes — we’re focused on deepening relationships with our partners and continuing to raise the profile of the correlation between carbon and cost efficiencies. We have recently completed a 48-apartment scheme in Leeds, all handed over in one day, which is a business record, so I’m looking forward to seeing if that can be topped!
People, partnerships and possibilities
Q: What can clients and partners expect when visiting your new office for the first time?
A: They’ll immediately feel the energy and pride of our team. The space has been designed to be open, welcoming, and collaborative. It’s a place where ideas can flow freely. We want every visitor to leave with a sense of who we are — professional, passionate, and forward-thinking.
Q: How do you hope the new environment will influence team culture and collaboration?
A: Culture has always been the heartbeat of Circle, and this new space allows it to thrive. The layout encourages connection and creativity, giving everyone room to contribute and grow. It’s a place that reflects our values; collaboration, respect, and excellence.
Looking back and moving forward
Q: Looking back, what are some standout memories from your time at the office in Green Park?
A: Those early days were full of energy and ambition. We were a small team with big ideas, learning and growing every day. The friendships, late nights, and shared milestones from that period are what laid the foundation for the business we have today. A standout memory has to be the COVID-compliant office layout. We had workspaces across the kitchen surfaces, lobbies, and even on the pool table (RIP — that was replaced with actual desks a long time ago now!).
Q: What makes you most proud when you look at the journey so far?
A: Without a doubt, our people and culture. The way our team has grown while staying true to our values is something I’m incredibly proud of. Every success we’ve had has come from the collective effort and belief of everyone involved.
Q: What would you say to the team, clients, and collaborators who’ve supported Circle on the journey so far?
A: A heartfelt thank you. None of this would be possible without your trust, hard work, and partnership. Every milestone we’ve achieved has been a shared one, and I’m deeply grateful for the role each person has played in our growth.
Also, if you’re passing by, please pop in for a coffee!
Q: What excites you most about this next chapter?
A: The sense of possibility. This new chapter is about expansion — of ideas, people, and impact. We’re entering a phase where our experience and ambition are perfectly aligned.
Over the next 3-5 years, we’ll continue to grow strategically, promoting from within, deepening our expertise, and investing in project controls and innovation. Our goal is to remain agile and ambitious while staying grounded in the values that got us here. This new home gives us the platform to do just that.
It’s an exciting place to be!
