CoStar Impact Award Winners

HFD's Aurora office proves power of sustainable design in Glasgow - Commercial Development of the Year for Scotland



Aurora is a market-leading refurbishment in Glasgow completed by HFD, a major developer in the city, with high standards for sustainability, workplace wellness and modern office design that have earned it the commercial development of the year plaudits in Scotland in CoStar's Impact Awards.

Within only five months of completion, over 96% of the building was leased, with an occupier line-up which includes PwC, SSE, Pinsent Masons and Grant Thornton. The headline rents in the building has surpassed £40 per square feet, setting a new benchmark for office space in the city. 

The building's extensive renovation, completed in 2024, aimed to create an environmentally responsible and adaptable workspace. The emphasis on sustainability, energy efficiency and smart technology ensures that Aurora meets the evolving needs of its occupiers while delivering a modern, future-proof environment.

About the project:


The landlord says Aurora is the most sustainable office in Glasgow, with a 77.4% reduction in embodied carbon. It holds an EPC rating of A and a BREEAM Excellent certification. It features a hybrid variable refrigerant flow system, the first of its kind for a commercial office in Scotland. This on-floor water-based air conditioning system is more environmentally friendly and is easier to maintain and adapt to facilitate future fit-out changes. 

Aurora is equipped with internet of things sensors and a full sensor network, not just for integrated lighting control, but an intelligent Building Management System and occupation analysis, ensuring operational and environmental efficiencies are maximised.

It comprises 174,570 square feet of flexible, high-spec office space. To maximise sustainability and reduce abortive fit-out costs, the building was initially completed to a shell and floor standard. This approach allows a combined Cat A and Cat B fit-out, delivering significant cost, programme and sustainability savings for occupiers. Aurora’s involvement with the community includes supporting charitable causes through the HFD Charitable Foundation and offering educational tours that highlight the building’s sustainability and economic impact. 

What the judges said:


Kieran Findlay, editor of Scottish Construction Now, said: "The educational initiatives and community engagement efforts further solidify its positive impact beyond just commercial success. Aurora stands out with its commitment to sustainability, cutting-edge energy efficiency, and workplace wellness. The Hybrid VRF air conditioning system is a first in Scotland, contributing to lower carbon emissions.

"The intelligent Building Management System (iBMS) and IoT sensors optimise energy use. The emphasis on biophilic design, a communal roof terrace, and flexible fit-out approaches further demonstrate innovative thinking in office refurbishment.  The project tackled significant structural challenges, including removing and replacing the original stone façade to enhance insulation, extending lift access for the roof terrace, and creatively repurposing existing features. The economic challenges of rising material costs and supply chain delays were managed effectively, ensuring timely completion and leasing success."

They made it happen:


Elliot Cumming, property director and Stephen Lewis, managing director, HFD Property Group; Chris Taylor, chief executive UK and Ben Dickins, head of asset management, Forma; Colin Mackenzie and Andy Cunningham, co-founders, MC2; Sarah Hagen, partner, CBRE.



Words by
Paul Norman, Karen Brown
CoStar News