Several vacant shop units over two floors were stripped out,
reconfigured, linked internally and amalgamated into two new work
and community spaces. Working closely with the Council's
architects, we delivered welcoming spaces in line with a bold and
attractive design. The project included installing a passenger lift, a
grand staircase fabricated off-site and extensive M&E finished to
exacting standards.

Project specifications

• Exposed M&E installation – ventilation, heating,
  fire-stopping, ductwork, lighting and electrical systems installed
  as design features, requiring visually appealing layout and
  high-quality finish
• Grand central staircase – 14-tonne steel staircase
  was fabricated off-site and craned into position
• Architectural coordination – delivered in close
  collaboration with Office S&M Architects to exacting design
  requirements, achieving a high-quality, visually engaging community
  environment
• New lift installation – formation of new structural
  openings to accommodate a glass-encased passenger lift serving both
  floors
• 3 kilometres of electrical conduit installed
• 14 tonne steel staircase craned-in

The most challenging aspects of this job were the programme and the architectural design. Normally you'd put your fixtures and fittings up and then you'd cover it with a ceiling, but here everything was exposed so the architect wanted to make sure the layout of the M&E was right - and we had to finish it all off neatly - Neil, Site Manager

Project Outcome

Carefully crafted with close attention to detail, the design celebrates its architectural features through exposed services, retained original elements and a confident use of materials. The result is a vibrant, welcoming space that feels both distinctive and practical, designed to stand up to everyday use while remaining accessible to everyone. It will provide local residents with community spaces, a library and affordable workspaces, creating opportunities for artists, voluntary organisations and local communities to come together. More than just a building, it will help make art, community and wellbeing a natural part of everyday life.