BBC Studios Comedy Productions Workplace

HOK’s design transformed a historic building in London’s Chinatown into a creative hub for BBC Studios Comedy Productions, the team behind hit shows including “Good Omens,” “Trying” and classics such as “Only Fools and Horses.” Located at 45 Gerrard Street, the former home of England’s first poet laureate, John Dryden, the workplace balances heritage preservation with modern functionality.

The 4,000-sq.-ft. space spans two floors across adjacent buildings. HOK’s design creates a boutique environment that eschews corporate aesthetics in favor of a warm, retro atmosphere conducive to creative collaboration. Vintage furniture and restored Crittall windows preserve the building’s character while supporting BBC Studios’ sustainability goals. Raw, unfinished base-build walls eloquently reveal the building’s diverse history.

The first floor contains inclusive, client-facing spaces, including a flexible conference room with folding glass partitions that open to accommodate events. Lounge-style meeting areas and dedicated writing desks provide intimate settings for creative development.

The second floor offers desk-based workspaces complemented by diverse meeting rooms and focus booths that activate the space for both work and socializing throughout the day.

BBC Comedy’s rich legacy comes alive through carefully curated artwork, memorabilia and awards celebrating beloved programs and personalities from past decades. This personalized environment helps attract and retain top creative talent while fostering the development of new content for global audiences.

Transforming this historic property while preserving its authentic character required innovative solutions to complex technical challenges. The team developed specialized delivery strategies to navigate tight site access. A secondary glazing system mitigates street noise while preserving period windows. Vintage furnishings underwent meticulous review and selective reupholstering to meet modern fire safety standards while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.

The workplace’s seamless accessibility between buildings and various collaborative settings create an environment where writers, performers and producers can freely generate ideas. The design reflects BBC Studios’ commitment to providing best-in-class facilities that enable creative teams to thrive.