The scheme at 1 New Park Square, Edinburgh, developed by Parabola comprised the design and construction of a five-storey commercial building, providing 85,000ft2 of Grade A office space. It includes a multi-storey car park with capacity for 400 parking spaces within the Edinburgh Park Southern Phase development.

Construction firm Sir Robert Mcalpine said 1 New Park Square stands as a testament to the firm’s commitment to creating sustainable and visually striking spaces. As the inaugural landmark project for the broader vision of a low-carbon community at Edinburgh Park by developer Parabola, the firm said the achievement marks a significant milestone in its journey towards innovative and eco-conscious construction.

The ‘Outright Winner Award’ at the Concrete Society Awards accolade is a recognition of the careful thought, meticulous planning, and sheer dedication that went into every facet of 1 New Park Square. The judges were particularly impressed by the visual impact of concrete, seamlessly woven into the fabric of the building. Upon entering the main reception, the exposed concrete, enhanced by art and lighting, presented a refreshing and awe-inspiring sight.

The decision to utilise Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag partial replacement concrete for the walls, coupled with the darker CEM I (Portland cement) concrete on the soffits, was praised for creating a striking and harmonious contrast. The judges commended the attention to detail in managing tie holes, ensuring not only design uniformity but also preserving the visual impact without compromise.

A standout feature highlighted by the judges was the consistent panel sizes of the walls and soffits, contributing to the overall visual impact of the exposed concrete. The bespoke forms used in construction further elevated the aesthetic, and any imperfections were seen as adding to the authenticity of the build. In their remarks, the judges emphasised that 1 New Park Square should be promoted and celebrated as a benchmark for the best use of concrete in construction.

The project team also won ‘Best Workplace over £20m’ at the AJ Architecture Awards which took place on 22nd November.

1 New Park Square was praised by judges as ‘a radical and appealing approach to the post-Covid workspace, demonstrating deep thinking around public spaces and ‘how to improve and maximise the experience for everyone’.