PLP Architecture HQ
London, UK
PLP Architecture’s new London studio is a working model for circular design, where 92% of materials are reused or donated and a further 7% recycled, diverting 175.78 tonnes of CO₂ from landfill.
About
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.
By rethinking value and designing with intention, we’ve created a space that reflects our ethos, and set a model others can follow to achieve more with less.
Even new items took a circular approach.
While we prioritised reuse and upcycling in our studio fit-out, expanding into a larger space meant that some new furniture was necessary – particularly for our meeting rooms. Even in these choices, we remained committed to circular design principles, selecting materials that aligned with our focus on sustainability and resource-conscious design.
"Our new studio embodies our philosophy of designing workspaces that prioritise wellbeing, productivity, and sustainability, all achieved through a circular fit-out that made no compromises."
New surfaces were crafted to showcase our architectural legacy.
Terrazzo worksurfaces incorporate fragments of samples from past PLP projects, brought together by Solus Ceramics in their Spolia product. This material now covers our kitchen surfaces and material library, a constant reminder of the possibilities of reuse.
