Originally designed by Tollit and Lee and notable for its early use of reinforced concrete, Cantay House has long played a prominent role in Oxford’s commercial life. Spratley & Partners’ proposals build on this legacy, combining sensitive heritage restoration with a confident, commercially driven vision. Original features, including an impressive red brick façade with stone dressings, Crittall windows and riveted internal steelwork are retained and celebrated, while targeted interventions enhance the building’s presence and performance.

The scheme delivers over 30,000 sq. ft of flexible, high-quality office space, supported by a landscaped courtyard and rooftop terrace that prioritise occupier wellbeing and amenity.

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At the ground floor, a new 5,800 sq ft flexible venue reactivates the street, introducing a dynamic day-to-night offer that strengthens the wider Park End Street environment and supports long-term vibrancy.

Sustainability is embedded at the core of the project, with a targeted 79% reduction in energy demand achieved through a fabric-first approach, high-performance glazing and low-carbon systems. Retrofitting the existing structure significantly reduces embodied carbon, positioning Cantay House as a responsible and future-proof alternative to newbuild development. The scheme has achieved BREEAM Excellent at the design stage and is targeting the same on completion.

By combining heritage-led design with high-performance workplace strategy, Cantay House sets a benchmark for retrofit-led regeneration in constrained urban contexts. It not only preserves an important piece of Oxford’s architectural history but repositions it to meet the evolving needs of modern occupiers, delivering a commercially viable, environmentally responsible and socially vibrant destination.

Planning consent was secured in early 2026, with completion anticipated in mid-2027.

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