The Octagon reaches practical completion

The Octagon, Birmingham’s tallest building and the world’s first purely octagonal residential skyscraper, has officially reached practical completion, marking the end of a three-year construction programme that has transformed the city’s skyline.

Developed by MEPC, the development arm of Federated Hermes, and backed by Singapore-based real estate investor City Developments Ltd (CDL), the £110 million build-to-rent project is a key component of the city’s £1.2 billion Paradise estate. Construction was led by Midgard, part of the JRL Group, with property management to be handled by Allsop.

Standing at 155 metres with 49 storeys, The Octagon offers 370 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Its unique octagonal design delivers panoramic views across Birmingham and beyond, made possible by wide-format 10.5 metre windows on each side of the building.

Designed by Birmingham-based architecture practice Howells, The Octagon emphasises sustainability, incorporating modern methods of construction (MMC) and lean production principles throughout. The project includes features aimed at supporting long-term environmental performance and reducing its carbon footprint.

Residents will have access to dedicated amenities, including a lounge, private dining area, co-working spaces, a fully equipped gym, concierge services, and a ground-floor retail unit. The first residents are expected to move in from early September.

Neil McGinty, Director at CDL, described the completion as a landmark moment for Birmingham: “This moment underlines our commitment to Birmingham as a world-class, international destination with a strong regional economy and an exceptional future.”

Ross Fittall, Commercial Development Director at MEPC, said the project demonstrates the ambition of the wider Paradise development: “Providing much-needed high-quality city centre homes, The Octagon has wide appeal. Visible from many miles away due to its location on the Birmingham Ridge, it is and will remain an icon for the city.”

The building’s delivery involved a broad team of local subcontractors, specialist suppliers, and project managers Quantem. Midgard’s Director Kevin Keegan noted the importance of collaboration in the successful completion: “This project has been a great example of collaborative working across the design, delivery and construction teams.”

Dav Bansal, Partner at Howells, highlighted the architectural significance of the project: “The Octagon’s journey from a bold idea to a superlative new home for hundreds of people in the civic heart of Birmingham is a milestone moment. We’re making the most of what the city has to offer.”

The Octagon forms the northern apex of the Paradise masterplan and is intended to serve as both a residential landmark and a symbol of the city’s urban evolution. It is now one of the most prominent elements of Birmingham’s built environment.