Molson Coors Headquarters, Burton upon Trent

The redevelopment, conversion, and extension of the former National Brewery Centre in Burton upon Trent has transformed the site into the new UK and Ireland headquarters for beverage company Molson Coors. BHB Architects were appointed to provide full architectural and interior design services, including a CAT B office fit-out with amenities for over 500 staff.

The interior architecture concept draws inspiration from the building's historic fabric and former life as the Bass Brewery. The goal was to celebrate original architectural elements while complementing them with sensitive, modern, and vibrant interventions that reflect the Molson Coors brand and create a seamless integration between the old and new.

In addition to a detailed FF&E design, the interior concept focused heavily on floor finishes—using them to guide users on a new journey through the existing building, into the newly constructed areas, drawing inspiration from the original floor patterns found throughout the site, which hold historical significance.

One key example of this approach is the preservation of the original cobbled flooring in the new staff ‘food and drink’ facility. The red and blue tones within the cobbles inspired a bold and vibrant interior palette. Their coarse texture also informed the use of contrasting white oak wall cladding, adding tactile warmth to what could otherwise be a cool, dark space. Together, these elements create a dialogue between the past and present uses of the space.

In the workspaces, a stepped carpet design in a ‘swirl’ pattern defines walkways and subtly guides movement from the existing structure through the new openings and into the new built forms. This motif also nods to the curves found in Molson Coors' branding, reinforcing the idea of a new chapter for the building. The workspaces created within the existing building also feature a half-height plasterboard lining with integrated lighting, positioned beneath the exposed Victorian brickwork. This design feature continues into the new-build section, where it transitions into a half-height painted detail, ensuring visual continuity throughout.

At the heart of the development lies a multi-use atrium, physically linking the new and existing buildings and serving as the primary circulation route. Contemporary floor tiles here define flexible work zones and pathways, drawing inspiration from external brick paving patterns. The design brings structure to the open-plan environment and, with the addition of biophilia, introduces natural rhythms and textures indoors.

A standout feature is the new ‘Thirst Bar,’ located in the original building. Introduced by a black and white mosaic floor, the space features moody lighting, dark finishes, and industrial-style display cabinets with sliding doors. This palette and detailing create a distinct spatial identity, separating the bar from the rest of the office both visually and conceptually. BHB worked closely with Molson Coors and the main contractor to deliver a flexible, dual-purpose space that functions as both a commercially viable bar and an extension of the workplace. It includes Microsoft Teams integration to support hosting visitors and remote meetings.

Overall, the project delivers a high-quality, inspiring corporate headquarters that thoughtfully blends heritage finishes with contemporary design—celebrating both the site's brewing legacy and Molson Coors’ future.