Elfield Park, a 22 acre 21st century industrial and logistics campus in Milton Keynes, designed by Chetwoods for developers Beyond Collaboration, has innovation at its core. It embraces a philosophy that places emphasis on placemaking, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. The development has nature, sustainability, and wellbeing at its heart, reenergising a vacant and inaccessible piece of land to set a new benchmark for modern highly sustainable B2/B8 accommodation.

Following the successful completion of 43,000 sqft Phase 1 in 2024, Phase 2 has recently been approved to deliver a further 250,000 sqft across four additional buildings. Set to deliver in the next two years, this next stage will continue to demonstrate that Beyond Collaboration and Chetwoods are committed to creating spaces that not only meet but exceed the shifting expectations around sustainability, wellbeing, and innovation for industrial and logistics occupiers.

Innovative Approach to Sustainability

Across both phases the design features office spaces that foster a harmonious working environment which has a strong connection to nature, with external balconies overlooking landscaped public realm areas. A highlight is the emphasis on natural daylighting, achieved through full-height glazing in the office areas and slotted glazing panels on warehouse facades.

Innovation is central to both the design and construction, focusing on minimising environmental impact using high-quality materials and sustainable initiatives. By optimising orientation and built form, and utilising lean structures alongside an efficient building envelope, the project reduces operating costs for tenants. Impressively, 98% of all construction waste for Phase 1 was diverted from landfill. Energy-efficient mechanical systems, electric air source heat pumps for heating and cooling the office spaces, and sensor-managed LED lighting are integrated throughout along with clean, renewable energy provided in a commitment to maximising solar panels on all areas.

Wellbeing Rooted in Nature

The site’s landscape has shaped the positioning of the buildings, with a striking water feature serving as a focal point, showcased through the transparent frontage. The landscaped areas will support biodiversity, and Phase 2 will build on the approach to Phase 1 by introducing enhanced landscaped areas that integrate nature with occupier wellbeing and productivity.

Expansive green spaces, tree-lined avenues, and thoughtfully designed amenities will create an environment where both business and nature can flourish. Additionally, an investment in specially commissioned public art will strengthen the connection between people and nature, fostering both an emotional and aesthetic bond to the surrounding environment.

A New Era in Industrial Campus Design

Elfield Park represents a paradigm shift in industrial campus design, where innovation, sustainability, and community intersect to create a truly transformative environment. The project is already proving attractive to prospective tenants, setting a new standard for future developments.

Clive White, Director at Chetwoods, commented:

“Beyond Collaboration’s vision and ambition was for a scheme that would be visible, approachable, and fully inclusive. This has been achieved through many elements, including a central amenity ‘heart’ area that can be used for both public and private events, as well as new links with the local community via the provision of a trim-trail and cycle routes to promote public access.”

Ian Morrison, CEO and Founder of Beyond Collaboration:

“EPMK embodies our philosophy of creating exceptional places that push the boundaries of innovation and design, improve the lives of the people that work on campus and safeguard our world through responsibly and market leading environmental initiatives and a strong connection to nature. It was a pleasure to work with Chetwoods and the wider team who fully embraced our bold vision and we look forward to continuing this work into Phase 2.”