PLP Architecture Offices – London
PLP Architecture’s London studio at The White Chapel Building exemplifies innovative, sustainable design through a circular fit-out, achieving a 75.4% reduction in embodied carbon while fostering collaboration and creativity.
PLP Architecture’s new London studio at The White Chapel Building is a powerful statement of intent, a working embodiment of the practice’s core values of innovation, sustainability and collaboration. Delivered through a circular fit-out strategy, the 22,850 sq ft space demonstrates a bold new approach to workplace design: one that places people, planet and practicality at the heart of decision-making.
Unlike conventional fit-outs that start from scratch, PLP’s approach began with what already existed. Every opportunity to reuse, repurpose and extend the life of materials was evaluated. By integrating elements from both their former and new spaces, the team achieved a 75.4% reduction in embodied carbon. 92% of materials from the previous studio were either reused or donated, with a further 7% recycled, saving 175.78 tonnes of CO₂ from landfill.
And this was delivered for just £64 per square foot, 68% less than the cost of a typical London fit-out. Highlights include terrazzo worktops embedded with architectural samples, repurposed marble transformed into new tables, and furniture either restored or rehomed. The result is a vibrant, low-impact, and deeply intentional space. One that reflects PLP’s belief in architecture’s power to drive positive change.
PLP’s fit-out is defined by its use of reclaimed and repurposed materials. 92% of components came from the previous or new studios, including bespoke terrazzo worktops made from project samples, reupholstered B&B Italia sofas, and reconditioned office furniture. Even newly introduced pieces were chosen for longevity, with demountable components and recycled-content fabrics throughout.
All materials were digitally catalogued using material passports, an emerging technology enabling long-term traceability and reuse. This system tracks each item’s composition, history and future lifecycle, ensuring that components can be dismantled, relocated or redistributed in the future.
The circular fit-out achieved a 75.4% reduction in embodied carbon and diverted nearly 176 tonnes of CO₂ from landfill. At £64 per square foot, it also proved significantly more cost-effective than traditional fit-outs. PLP’s process offers a replicable model, with practical takeaways for any business looking to reduce waste, lower costs and embed circularity into their operations.
Design: PLP Architecture
Contractor: Method Ltd
Photography: Vigo Jansons
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