Last month, TSP were honoured to win the EG Tech Award for most innovative building: 30 Lighterman, Kings Cross.
We had incredible competition, up against the giants GPE and PSP – Canada’s largest pension investment managers.
Most importantly, 30 Lighterman is over 100 years old. It is proof that real innovation must marry the best of old and new.
It’s worth taking a closer look at the etymology of ‘innovation’. A word bandied around to such an extent today, void of much meaning.
Innovationem
“Innovation” comes from the Latin “innovationem”, noun of action from “innovare”. Curiously, “innovare” – mid-15c – stems from the Latin “innovatus”: to renew or change.
So, innovation is not – as commonly assumed – simply the introduction of something new. Its roots dig deeper.
The central meaning of innovation relates to renewal and restoration: changing something that already exists.
And that’s precisely what we did with 30 Lighterman.
Restored and repurposed a centenarian building – once used by historic lightermen workers, ferrying London’s flat-bottom barges known as lighters along the Thames.
Some of their footprints are still visible on the original, buffed concrete floors.
Innovative in the true sense.
So, how did we do it?
Here are 5 factors which brought this historic, great dame into the future of workspaces.
1. Sustainability
Exceptional sustainability credentials: EPC B, BREEAM Excellent, carbon-neutral status. 100% of waste diverted from landfill. 100% of materials BRE A/A+.
2. Managed Space
All-inclusive leasing package combining flexibility, technology, community, and sustainability. Quick access, turnkey ready.
3. Prop-Tech Enabled
Contactless smart access control, real-time air quality monitoring, plus some of the first people-counting sensors in UK offices. Real-time data to predict demand, test configurations, optimise space utilisation.
4. Marketing Campaign
Innovation was reflected through to our marketing campaign. Professional stunning videography of a ballerina moving within the space – accompanied by EDM. Classical fused with contemporary.
5. Managed by TSP
The entire fit out and building management is run by TSP, so tenants benefit from a seamless experience. It proves that outstanding and sustainable office space can be offered and managed with relatively limited resources versus the giants in our industry.
Featured Stories & Insights

The Notebook: Zac Goodman on why there’s life after WeWork for flex offices
AS FEATURED IN CITY AM, Monday 27 November 2023 Where the City’s top thinkers get...
Read More
Case Study: How We Transformed a Century-Old Building into Tomorrow’s Workspace
This November, TSP celebrates the completion of 60 Ironmonger. Over the past 11 months, we...
Read More
Rockbourne Unplugged: A Tale of Leadership, Legacy, & Achieving Real Estate Excellence
Rockbourne is a business focused on Leadership & Future Leadership Search for real estate owners,...
Read More
Centenarian Workspaces: 6 Historic Offices Restored to Splendour
Zac Goodman, CEO, recently shared his insights in a Bloomberg feature: ‘When Recycling Comes to...
Read More
Maximise ROI: 5 Property Management Strategies That Add Long-Term Value
At TSP, we use the following five property management strategies to deliver high returns to...
Read More
Landlords: “Zoom out, take expert advice, listen to your gut”
An award-winning, modern real estate practice specialising in investment, development, leasing & occupier agency services...
Read MoreView all
Let's Talk
Got a question? Use the form to get in touch.