United Kingdom

The U.K. continues to attract global capital, with London standing out as a safe haven for investment. Demand for prime office space in the capital is outpacing supply, even as aging Class B and C buildings sit vacant. Across the country, cities like Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, and Bristol are emerging as hubs for growth industries, such as data centres, academic sciences, and defense. At the same time, the U.K. faces urgent housing needs, an aging population, and intensifying climate commitments. These pressures are driving investment into adaptive reuse, mixed-use lifestyle districts, and developments that reflect a growing trend around wellness.

What’s Next

Wellness-driven spaces reshape demand.

The rise of the wellness consumer market in the U.K. fuels demand for mixed-use environments that blend medical care, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences. Developers find opportunity in districts and amenities designed around health, well-being, and everyday convenience.

Climate action accelerates as 2030 commitments near.

With regulations tightening, developers and occupiers alike prioritise decarbonisation and supply chain transparency. Climate-positive adaptive reuse and sustainable building strategies move from optional to essential.

Prime office scarcity drives development, while older assets are ripe for reuse.

Class A office demand in London far exceeds supply, putting pressure on rents and new development. Meanwhile, underutilised Class B and C buildings present significant opportunities for conversion and adaptive reuse.

Growth sectors create new real estate demand.

Data centres, academic sciences, and the expanding defense industry reshape regional economies beyond London. Secondary cities are becoming magnets for specialised facilities, infrastructure, and talent.

Notable Projects

Francis House London headquarters interior — **Francis House, London HQ**, London, United Kingdom

The Francis Crick Institute reception — **The Francis Crick Institute**, London, United Kingdom

The Acre high angle view of building interior — **The Acre**, London, United Kingdom

insights from the Gensler Research Institute

Environmental Performance is a Value Driver in U.K. Cities

Residents in London and Birmingham give high marks to their cities as places to live, work, and socialize, with transit and cultural activities scoring especially well. Yet environmental satisfaction trails other factors — air quality, noise, and cleanliness all hover below 50% — suggesting that resilience and livability strategies will be central to sustaining long-term urban success.

How satisfied are you with the following aspects of your city?