We were appointed by a private developer to convert and extend an existing late 19th century industrial building in Bethnal Green to provide low-rent studio workspaces. Key moves were the addition of a new storey at roof level, and the carving out and reorganisation of the internal spaces to create simple, light offices and communal areas with a strong character.

The plan was re-ordered, retaining existing structure where possible, to provide an efficient layout with 12 large workspaces. At the new top floor, lightweight large span open trusses run across the width of the building forming the new roof. These incorporate glazing and guttering, and act as north-lights, flooding the top studios with natural light. Externally the overscaled saw-tooth profile expressed in brickwork is a reminder of the building's former use.

Client: Marson Properties
Value: £830K
Published: Architecture Today