The building, owned by Clearbell Property Partners III LP (Clearbell) — a fund managed by Clearbell Capital LLP — sits at the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter which is home to over 100 academic, research and scientific institutions. 

The building’s repurposing as a wet and dry laboratory-enabled space comes in response to a growing need from the capital’s life sciences firms for greater access to high-quality lab space. The new configuration, flue and M&E at 85 Gray’s Inn Road has been designed to accommodate a range of flexible and bespoke fit out options, ensuring compatibility for a wide array of life science functions and R&D specialisms. All available workspace in the building can be utilised as laboratories, with prospective tenants able to conduct their own fit out, or work with Clearbell and lab fit out specialists for a bespoke space.  

Alongside class-leading lab space, tenants will have access to new shower and changing facilities, reception concierge services, cycle storage and a 1,100 sq ft landscaped roof terrace with panoramic views of London. The site is also ideally situated with both King’s Cross St Pancras and Farringdon stations nearby, providing connections across London, the UK and Europe.  

As part of Clearbell’s commitment to placing environmental responsibility at the heart of its developments, 85 Gray’s Inn Road has been developed as such that it is expected to achieve a ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating and has achieved an EPC B.  

Toby Saul, Associate Director at Clearbell Capital LLP said:

“The life sciences sector is a major asset for UK plc and there remains a widespread shortage of specialist space within London. 

Quality lab space is essential for our most innovative businesses to scale, conduct world-leading R&D and attract talent. This is why we’re so excited by the incredible potential that our transformation of 85 Gray’s Inn Road represents for prospective occupiers.  

“London’s Knowledge Quarter is an exciting place to be and undoubtedly one of the most important hubs for UK life sciences. It’s a prime location for both growing and established firms to find new opportunities for development and collaboration. We’re looking forward to providing a new home to some of those businesses at 85 Gray’s Inn Road.”  

85 Gray’s Inn Road is located close to a number of renowned life science institutions, including the Francis Crick biomedical research institute, University College London, the Wellcome Trust headquarters, and Great Ormond Street hospital. The life sciences community in the area is set to grow in the coming months and years, with the opening of the Dementia Research Institute due in 2024.  

Letting opportunities are being managed by Creative Places and Knight Frank.