IMPERIAL WORKS
A discrete roof extension and thoughtful retrofit unlocks precious extra internal area, assuring commercial viability and drawing light in from all sides
FOR NEWMARK PROPERTIES
Imperial Works is a heritage piano manufacturing workshop that had previously been converted to office use. However, tired, outdated and with poor internal circulation, the building was not performing to its full potential. The brief was to increase the floor area, improve the worn-out building fabric, and enhance horizontal and vertical access.
Working around an in-situ tenant and to a limited budget, we answered the brief and delivered on time. The 21,000 sqft GIA project combines whole-life robustness in the choice of hard-wearing finishes and energy-efficient interventions for a delightful architectural end result.
A BETTER ALTERNATIVE TO DEMOLTION
Set in a Conservation Area, the robust structure of solid masonry construction and steel frame with cast iron columns surrounded by low rise residential properties made demolition an unrealistic option. Instead the building was carefully refurbished and valuable area was added at roof level. Additionally, a new staircase adds improved access while providing a much more exciting and inviting entrance experience.
COMPLEMENTING AND IMPROVING THE EXISTING BUILDING
The alley provides an elegant and unique entrance to the building. The discrete but crisply detailed roof addition is clad in black charred timber that complements the existing brick. The removal of the existing concrete roof considerably reduced dead weight on the walls and columns and thus allowed for a timber framed roof extension to be added without the need for strengthening the existing structure.
IMPROVED ACCESS INVITES LIGHT INSIDE
The new steel stair was prefabricated off-site for quick installation. Referencing the strings inside a piano, and thus the building's rich history, the steel rods between the stair flights, along with the open treads, allow light to penetrate the space. A new, partially glazed lift runs next to the staircase, introducing step-free access throughout the building.
UNIQUE CHARACTER, GREAT LIGHT
Fundamental to our refurbishment strategy was maintaining, uncovering and restoring the most attractive elements of the historic building, cast iron columns and beams, timber joisted floors, warehouse doors and brickwork detail. To this we added similarly robust and self-finished materials within the interior and new extension. The warehouse-style office is full of character that might have lacked in a new-build project.
LOCATION
Kentish Town, London
SIZE
21,000 sqft
AWARDS
/ AJ Retrofit, Imperial Works – shortlisted
STATUS
Completed in 2016
CLIENT
Newmark Properties