Project overview
PTS was appointed as Smart Building, AV, IT, Network and Physical Security consultant for GSK’s new headquarters at The Earnshaw Building, 79 New Oxford Street, London.
The 155,000 sq ft development was conceived as one of the world’s healthiest workplaces, targeting WELL Platinum and BREEAM Outstanding certifications. GSK required a fully integrated workplace technology strategy that would support hybrid working, enhance employee wellbeing and deliver measurable operational insight.
Our role was to design and coordinate a seamless, data driven technology ecosystem aligned with GSK’s global standards and long term workplace vision.
Vision
GSK’s ambition was to redefine the modern headquarters through healthy workplace design and smart building innovation. Technology needed to actively support wellbeing, collaboration and productivity while remaining intuitive and inclusive.
The building required accurate, real time data on air quality, occupancy and environmental conditions to optimise both employee experience and energy performance.
Located in central London, with publicly accessible lower floors, the physical security strategy also had to balance openness with resilience, protecting people and assets without compromising architectural intent.
Our Approach
PTS developed a holistic consultancy strategy integrating smart building systems, AV, IT infrastructure, Wi-Fi and layered physical security into a single coordinated solution.
To enable hybrid working and healthier environments, we designed a comprehensive sensor network monitoring air quality, CO2 levels, temperature, humidity, lighting and occupancy. This data is communicated in real time through the employee app, digital signage and meeting room booking panels, allowing staff to make informed decisions about where they work and enabling facilities teams to optimise space and energy performance.
A defining feature of the project is the largest sound masking and soundscaping system deployed in the UK and Ireland. Zoned soundscapes enhance acoustic comfort across collaboration and focus areas, supporting concentration and wellbeing at scale.
The AV strategy delivered 245 display screens, seven LED walls and a feature LED ceiling halo, alongside 117 room scheduling panels, ensuring a consistent and intuitive user experience throughout the building.
The network design incorporated 293 wireless access points, providing resilient, secure connectivity across all floors, terraces and shared spaces.
From a smart building perspective, 465 occupancy sensors and 193 air quality sensors generate actionable insight, supporting data led decision making, energy optimisation and alignment with WELL and BREEAM targets.
For physical security, PTS implemented a layered, risk based design aligned with GSK’s Global Security Guidelines. The solution includes IP video surveillance with advanced analytics, electronic access control with mobile credentials, full height turnstiles, a dedicated Security Operations Centre and anti tailgating measures. Security design was completed ahead of programme, ensuring readiness for occupation
Outcomes and benefits
SK’s new London headquarters demonstrates how integrated smart building consultancy can transform employee experience and operational performance.
Key Outcomes
- Real time environmental monitoring supporting healthier working conditions
- Data driven optimisation of space utilisation and energy performance
- Seamless hybrid collaboration enabled by integrated AV and resilient Wi-Fi
- Discreet, robust security appropriate for a high profile central London headquarters
- Industry recognition through leading smart building and workplace innovation awards
The result is a future ready workplace that combines sustainability, technology innovation and human centred design.
Key Stats
155,000 sq ft technology enabled headquarters across 13 storeys
465 occupancy sensors and 193 air quality sensors delivering real time building intelligence
Client testimonial
GSK appointed PTS to assist on AV, IT, networks, physical security and smart building solutions for the development of our new central London HQ. From the outset, PTS demonstrated a clear understanding of our vision and seamlessly integrated themselves into our culture and mission to create one of the world’s healthiest workplaces. Their ability to leverage expertise across multiple technological disciplines was pivotal in delivering integrated solutions that empower employee productivity. With their expertise in data, real time monitoring and user experience, PTS combined technical excellence with a profound understanding of our goals, making them a fantastic partner throughout the project.
Kurtis Davidson
Senior Director, Tech, Worldwide, Real Estate & Facilities and Corporate Functions, GSK