MMC
Learn MoreAt the heart of our innovative approach to building design is our commitment to delivering projects with unparalleled quality, speed, safety, and efficiency.
3 Copper Square, Brent Cross Town, Barnet
A flagship office building within Brent Cross Town and a landmark example of Modern Methods of Construction, the scheme was delivered through close collaboration between multiple stakeholders. It stands as one of Europe’s tallest hybrid structures, combining precast concrete, structural steel, composite beams, and cross‑laminated timber (CLT).
Mixed Use Regeneration - The South, England
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- 3 Copper Square, Brent Cross Town, Barnet
Project Overview
As part of the Brent Cross South masterplan, Plot 1, 3 Copper Square is a 14‑storey, 239,000 sq ft mixed‑use retail and office building conceived with sustainability at its core. The structure is an innovative hybrid of cross‑laminated timber (CLT) and concrete, with exposed timber soffits, and stands as one of Europe’s tallest hybrid buildings to integrate precast concrete, structural steel, composite beams, and CLT. Delivered five weeks ahead of programme, the scheme exemplifies how Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) can combine architectural ambition with sustainability and reliable programme delivery at scale.
We were commissioned to coordinate the design of the precast concrete elements, ensuring seamless integration with the CLT floor systems and their connections. The building’s frame comprises precast columns and beams supporting CLT floors within the office areas, while precast concrete slabs are utilised at lower levels to accommodate plant rooms. Structural stability is provided by a central core formed of precast twin‑wall and solid precast concrete wall systems, accelerating construction while minimising material waste.
Digital delivery was fundamental to performance and assurance. A fully coordinated BIM model and digital twin, hosted within the advanced Ynomia system, enabled Golden Thread compliance, full traceability, and real‑time quality assurance across the supply chain. Embedded quality controls and multi‑party sign‑off processes delivered confidence, certainty, and transparency from design through to handover.
This project sets a new benchmark for hybrid MMC delivery, as a repeatable, collaborative model for complex urban construction.
Image ©️PCE Ltd
The Challenge
Coordinating a complex hybrid structural system that fully integrated precast concrete elements with CLT floor systems, while maintaining buildability, programme certainty, and fidelity to the architect’s design vision.
Our Solution
Led the coordinated design of all precast concrete components, developing robust interfaces and connections with the CLT floors and delivering detailed RIBA Stage 4b documentation to ensure seamless integration, efficient construction, and accurate realisation of HTS’s design intent.
Key Highlights
Mixed-use development
Early integrated design enabled a systemised hybrid solution that challenged conventional office construction while ensuring compliance, buildability, and value
Net zero carbon
Completed 5 weeks ahead of schedule
Awards
Best Use of Industrialised Systems & Technologies category at Industrialised Construction Awards 2026 - Winner
Construction News Awards 2026 for MMX Project of the year - Shortlisted
Sustainability
Sustainability outcomes were industry-leading. The hybrid structure achieved a 22% reduction in embodied carbon compared to a traditional in-situ concrete frame, outperforming LETI targets. Concrete mixes incorporated 40% GGBS, while all timber was responsibly sourced from FSC-certified forests. The CLT structure alone sequesters almost 3,500 tonnes of CO₂, delivering long-term environmental benefit.
Our Approach
Sustainability
Learn MoreAt Curtins, sustainability is at the core of our approach as we strive to build a better future.
Digital Delivery
Learn MoreWith a rich history of embracing cutting-edge technology, we lead the way in digital delivery. Accredited with the BSI BIM Kitemark, we collaborate in a digital environment using the latest industry tools, and continuously enhance our digital capabilities to add tangible value to our projects.
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