A&O Shearman Prepares to Relocate to New London Headquarters with Enhanced Facilities
A&O Shearman is set to relocate to its new London headquarters at 2 Broadgate, with the move expected to be completed by the end of October. The firm will vacate its long standing premises at One Bishops Square, where it has been based since 2006.
The new office will occupy approximately 360,000 square feet across eight floors, featuring a range of amenities designed to promote employee wellbeing. Among these are an on site general practitioner, a fitness centre operated by Nuffield, and nutrition services.
Employees will have access to a gym, a bike studio, and reformer Pilates classes. The inclusion of an on site GP, nurse, and physiotherapy services aims to support staff health, while nutrition advice will assist those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
The design of the new headquarters prioritises natural light and outdoor access, with each working floor equipped with its own balcony or terrace. Additionally, windows that open will allow for fresh air circulation without the need to step outside.
Food and beverage options will include a restaurant and café bar, complemented by relaxation rooms and parent rooms. The office will also provide over 550 cycle spaces and standard sit stand desks to encourage movement throughout the workday.
A&O Shearman emphasises that the new headquarters is designed to foster collaboration among its lawyers. Flexible workspaces, focus rooms, and interconnected staircases will facilitate interaction between different practice groups and business teams. The firm conducted an extensive trial of the proposed layout at its existing office for more than 18 months, gathering staff feedback to refine the design.
Client accessibility has also been a consideration in the new design, with a dedicated entrance for clients and an entire floor dedicated to meeting rooms, dining facilities, event spaces, and an auditorium.
In addition to enhancing workplace facilities, the firm has set ambitious sustainability targets. A&O Shearman anticipates a reduction of approximately 90% in annual carbon emissions from its London office, alongside a projected 61% decrease in energy consumption per square metre.
While the firm moves to its new location, it will retain around 1,500 items of furniture from its previous office. Staff members have been given the opportunity to acquire unwanted pieces, with proceeds benefiting the firm's global charity partner, United for Global Mental Health.
Denise Gibson, A&O Shearman’s UK managing partner, remarked on the significance of this move for the firm. She highlighted that the new office is designed to enhance collaboration among teams and clients, reflecting the firm’s ambitions for the future.
The relocation marks the end of an era at One Bishops Square, which has served as A&O Shearman’s London base for two decades. The London office is the firm’s largest, housing over 1,800 lawyers and business professionals, including nearly 200 partners.