On entering the building, period elements such as plaster cornices, picture
rails, a ceiling rose and exposed imperial brickwork in the reception act as
a foil to minimalist features, including an angular chandelier (by New York
designer Bec Brittain), simply detailed oak wall panelling and large format
floor tiles. A generous 6m floor to ceiling height and a small first floor gallery
provide an unexpected volume given the narrow street elevation.
Much of the exterior of the building is hidden from the street, only visible
to occupiers of the neighbouring buildings. Due to the proximity of existing
buildings, rights to light angles carved through the potential building
volume. Following many iterations, the final response of cleverly folded
planes clad in brass Tecu and punctured by panels of glazing emerged. The
use of brass cladding suited the angular, faceted form whilst making subtle
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reference to the building’s industrial heritage.