Noho, Greater London, United Kingdom
The Smiths Building is a distinctive commercial property at 179–185 Great Portland Street in Noho, London, combining early twentieth-century architecture with modern office facilities. Originally constructed in 1913 for Smiths Industries, an early commercial producer of automotive speedometers, the building was redeveloped in 2007 and restored to reflect its industrial heritage.
Offering approximately 20,152 sq ft of office accommodation, the property provides a characterful working environment in London's West End. Its central location, proximity to major Underground stations and established commercial surroundings make it a notable address for businesses seeking office space in Fitzrovia and the wider Noho district.
The Smiths Building is situated on Great Portland Street in Noho, within London's West End commercial district. The area attracts professional services firms, creative businesses, technology companies and other established occupiers, with a wide selection of restaurants, cafés and retail amenities nearby.
The property benefits from convenient access to Euston Road (A501) and is within walking distance of Great Portland Street, Regent's Park and Warren Street Underground stations. Its location provides businesses with access to key employment districts and transport connections across central London.
Property Name: The Smiths Building
Full Address: 179–185 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5LS
Alternative Address: 178 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5LS
Property Type: Office Space
Submarket: Noho, London West End
Building Classification: 4-star office
Total Net Internal Area: 20,152 sq ft
Advertised Availability: Up to 20,152 sq ft
Available Floors: Basement, ground and first to fifth floors
Typical Floor Area: Approximately 2,510 sq ft
Year Built: 1913
Year Redeveloped: 2007
Building Floors: 7
Construction: Traditional masonry
Lifts: Available
Tenancy: Single-tenant record
Environmental Rating: BREEAM Good
The building offers office accommodation across multiple levels, with the refurbishment designed to retain elements of its industrial character while supporting contemporary workplace requirements.
The asking rent is currently withheld.estimates the office rental range at £80–£98 per sq ft per annum on an FRI basis. These figures are indicative estimates and should not be treated as confirmed landlord quotations.
Based on the estimated rental range, the potential annual rent for the full 20,152 sq ft is:
At £80 per sq ft: £1,612,160 per annum
At £98 per sq ft: £1,974,896 per annum
The source lists availability across the basement, ground and first to fifth floors, with individual floor areas and smaller suite options subject to confirmation. Service charge information has not been provided.
Availability note: CoStar records 20,152 sq ft as available while also reporting 100% occupancy and no vacant space, with Fora listed as occupying the entire building under a lease running to July 2030. The current availability and lease position should therefore be verified before proceeding.
The Smiths Building offers a range of facilities designed to support a modern office environment, including:
Air conditioning
Raised floor system
Atrium
Skylights
Building security system
Characterful architecture reflecting the building's industrial heritage
Multiple floors offering potential accommodation options
Distinctive commercial heritage: Originally built for Smiths Industries in 1913, the property offers a recognisable historic identity combined with a 2007 redevelopment.
Central West End address: Located on Great Portland Street in Noho, with access to Fitzrovia's commercial, creative and professional business community.
Flexible accommodation potential: The property record advertises up to 20,152 sq ft, with options listed across the basement, ground and upper floors, subject to confirmation.
Character and modern facilities: Traditional masonry construction and industrial-inspired design are complemented by air conditioning, raised floors and an atrium.
Strong transport connections: Nearby Underground stations provide access to several London Underground lines, supporting staff and visitor travel.
Environmental credentials: The building holds a BREEAM Good rating.
Availability requires verification: The advertised space conflicts with the reported occupancy and existing tenant record, so prospective occupiers should confirm the current leasing position.
Great Portland Street Underground Station is approximately 0.1 miles away, while Regent's Park is around 0.3 miles away. Warren Street is approximately 0.4 miles away, and Euston mainline station is around 0.7 miles away.
For further details or to make a booking, please contact Fraser Bond.
