FCO King Charles Street: Adaptive Learning Spaces in a Grade I Landmark

2012-2014
Architect, Lead Designer

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is a nationally significant, Grade I listed building designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and Sir Matthew Digby Wyatt in 1861 and completed in 1873. Originally planned as four separate buildings for the India, Foreign, Home, and Colonial Offices, it now forms a single historic complex.

We were commissioned to explore the feasibility of consolidating the FCO’s London estate and enhancing facilities at the Whitehall site. A sensitivity study identified areas within the listed building where greater opportunities for thoughtful changes could be made, allowing the creation of more modern, adaptable workspaces to support contemporary working practices. One key outcome was the development of a new in-house Language Training Facility, replacing the use of external providers. The design included soundproof teaching rooms of various sizes, flexible learning spaces, a library, quiet zones, and multimedia areas. The facility is located in the former reprographics area of the original Foreign Office.