Hugh James Offices, Cardiff

Sector: Office Fit Out, Commercial
Project Type: Electrical Design and Installation
Location: Cardiff, South Wales
Duration: 12 Months
Client: Hugh James

About this Project

Overview

Evans Electrical Limited provided the full electrical design and installation services for the new Hugh James headquarters in Cardiff — a 145,000 sq ft office development constructed to BREEAM Excellent standards.

This prestigious Cat A and Cat B fit-out project created a high-quality commercial environment for national law firm Hugh James and Cardiff University’s School of Journalism, both occupying significant space within the landmark building at the heart of the city.

The building offers a blend of open-plan working and collaborative zones, alongside designated quiet areas and client spaces. The dedicated client floor features 12 meeting rooms, a 120-capacity function suite, and an external terrace.

Electrical Services Delivered

Evans Electrical delivered a comprehensive electrical package, covering design, installation, testing, and commissioning of all building systems. Key elements included:

Power & Distribution: Transformer installation, LV distribution, and life safety generator
Lighting: High-efficiency LED lighting, emergency lighting, and bespoke LED strip lighting to mirrors
Safety & Security Systems: Fire alarm, CCTV, access control, disabled refuge alarms, and security/intruder systems
Energy Management & Resilience: PV system integration, electrical metering, auto-meter uplift, surge protection, and UPS installation
Data & Communications: Full data installation, TV/FM distribution, and connectivity to mechanical plant and control systems
Accessibility: Induction loop systems and facilities for users with disabilities
External Systems: Supplies to car park barriers and fire alarm interfaces
Documentation & Handover: Full working drawings, as-fitted documentation, O&M manuals, and a 12-month maintenance period

All electrical services were designed and installed in strict compliance with BS 7671 wiring regulations, achieving the project’s high energy efficiency and operational reliability requirements.

Sustainable and Smart Design

Sustainability was central to the project’s design ethos. Evans Electrical supported the BREEAM Excellent rating through:

Installation of energy-efficient LED lighting with intelligent controls
Integration of a photovoltaic (PV) system to reduce grid dependency
Smart metering and monitoring systems for ongoing energy management
Coordination with mechanical systems to optimise overall building performance

These measures ensure the Hugh James headquarters not only meets the highest standards of quality and comfort but also delivers long-term environmental and operational benefits.

Outcome

Completed over a 12-month period, the Hugh James Offices now stand as a landmark Grade-A commercial workspace in the centre of Cardiff. Evans Electrical’s integrated electrical design and installation ensured the project met both aesthetic and technical ambitions — combining innovation, sustainability, and user comfort in a modern working environment.

The result is a dynamic, energy-efficient office that reflects the values of one of the UK’s leading law firms while setting a benchmark for future commercial fit-outs in South Wales.