Third generation Gloucester firm plays key role in Forum fit out

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Third generation workplace design and build company Cobus Spaces has been appointed to fit-out Patch Gloucester, the new flagship 17,000 sq ft workspace at The Forum.

Cobus will transform the space into a high-quality dynamic hub for creatives, entrepreneurs, small businesses and community groups, working closely with a team of trusted local subcontractors.

Opening this autumn, Gloucester will be Patch’s sixth and largest site. It will provide private offices, coworking studios, dedicated desks, members’ lounges, and publicly bookable meeting rooms and event spaces.

Cobus will work closely with Patch, who are known for their beautifully designed spaces to create a site that is both modern and sustainable in line with The Forum’s green credentials, including being net-zero carbon in operation. 

Lloyd Coldrick, managing director of Cobus Spaces, said: “We’re proud to be playing the central role in bringing Patch Gloucester to life. Our team is combining decades of expertise with a commitment to sustainability to create a flexible, inspiring workspace that meets the needs of modern businesses.”

Cobus Spaces was founded in Gloucester in the 1970s as a furniture manufacturer and remains a family business, now in its third generation. For over 20 years, the company has delivered high-quality design and build office projects across the UK, working with a range of clients in the workplace and higher education sectors.

The firm’s approach places sustainability and environmental responsibility at its core, and the fast-paced programme will see Cobus collaborating closely with Patch to realise a design-led, community-focused vision.

Freddie Fforde, founder of Patch, said: “Cobus Spaces is renowned for delivering exceptional workplaces, and we’re delighted to partner with them to bring Patch Gloucester to life. Their expertise and commitment to sustainability align perfectly with our vision of creating a vibrant, community-driven hub that champions local talent and ambition, and gives a warm welcome to members and visitors.”

Opening this autumn, Patch Gloucester will offer private offices, coworking studios, dedicated desks, members’ lounges, and publicly bookable meeting rooms and event spaces.

Part of the £107m The Forum development, Patch will sit at the heart of the new destination for the city. Led by Gloucester City Council in partnership with Reef + Partners, the development includes 135,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, a boutique hotel, 393-space car park with 41 EV charging points, residential apartments and retail units.

Cllr Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “We’re delighted that a long-established local firm is playing a key role in such an important part of The Forum development. The new Patch flagship site is a major win for Gloucester and having a local company working on it makes it even better.

“The Forum is already bringing huge benefits to our local economy, not only through the jobs it has created but the substantial investment it continues to attract. These positive impacts will be felt for years to come.”