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

A brick building with modern architectural additions on top, including a box-like structure with large windows and black siding, and metal elements with a pole and overhead wires in the foreground.
A black and white exploded view of a multi-story building with the top building sections separated and floating above the main structure.

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 However, tired, outdated and with poor internal circulation, the building was not performing to its full potential.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.

A train platform at Kensal Town West station with a few commuters waiting, overhead electric wires, and modern brick buildings in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Close-up of a building with a brick facade and modern black metal cladding on the upper floor, featuring large windows.
View of a narrow cobblestone alley between brick buildings, with signs for businesses and a motorcycle parked at the end of the alley.

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.

Modern metal staircase with vertical railings and open steps inside a building with white brick wall.

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.

Person walking down a staircase in a modern industrial-style space with white brick walls and metal railings.
An indoor workspace with two men at a reception desk. There is a tall cactus and a bouquet of white flowers on a small table nearby. The room has a high ceiling with exposed wooden beams and large windows.
Modern office space with exposed ceiling beams, a large column, and multiple employees working at desks with computer monitors.

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.

Four people sitting at a round table in a bright modern office conference room with large windows, glass walls, and wooden floors.
Modern conference room with a long table, eight leather chairs, large windows, and city skyline view.

LOCATION

Kentish Town, London

SIZE

21,000 sqft

AWARDS

/ AJ Retrofit, Imperial Works – shortlisted

STATUS

Completed in 2016

CLIENT

Newmark Properties