Published on:

17 September 2021

Updated on:

15 December 2023

Read time:

2 minutes

Gary Tailby

Managing Director

Tina Batham

Managing Director

A series of prominent four-storey buildings in Birmingham city centre have been transformed into 24,000 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation.

We delivered the comprehensive refurbishment and reconfiguration of 39-52 Summer Row on behalf of landlord, Aegon Asset Management.

We carried out a series of structural alterations to the layout and space plan of the buildings, known as Lock 14, which required three complex crane lifts to complete. Works included a full strip out of the buildings back to shell and core, and the introduction of a new first floor link bridge.


The project has combined many of the building۪s original features with contemporary design, including a new ground floor hub with a double level atrium reception area, feature lighting, exposed services and decoration throughout.

There are new flexible meeting rooms, breakout spaces and a kitchen area, as well as secure cycle storage, dedicated shower and changing facilities, and a central courtyard for events, functions and outdoor meetings.

An extensive M&E upgrade has greatly enhanced the mains power supply to the building, while accessibility has been improved through the installation of a passenger lift from the basement to the top floor.

Lock 14 is the sixth recent landlord refurbishment project to be delivered on behalf of Aegon Asset Management, and was let to a single tenant prior to completion of works.

Gary Tailby, managing director of Office Principles North, said: "Aegon Asset Management had a clear vision to unlock the potential of existing space at Summer Row, into modern office accommodation. It was a detailed and complex scheme but we have successfully delivered a series of flexible and inspiring office spaces, made possible by a comprehensive refurbishment and an entirely new branding scheme that unites the buildings. Lock 14 is an exciting addition to Birmingham۪s office market."

Lock 14 was delivered by Office Principles and a project team including Darron Owen at Trident, who acted as employer's agent and project manager.

Meet the Authors

Having spent over 25 years in the industry, Gary is a highly proficient leader, with an all-encompassing knowledge of the commercial property market. The list of major corporates he has worked for spans all sectors and reflects his passion for exploring fresh business opportunities and breaking new ground. An enthusiastic team player, as well as a leader and director, Gary is intent on making sure that clients always attain their vision.

With over 25 years’ experience, Tina is a recognised and trusted industry leader whose client portfolio spans a huge body of work. Having consulted across most sectors, Tina is proficient in identifying the best solutions; focusing and advising on any single project to achieve outstanding results. As managing director, Tina is a hands-on team player as well as a strategist and experienced business development professional.