Conran and Partners was appointed to devise and implement a sensitive restoration that would return the building to its former glory whilst enhancing and modernising the space, giving it a new lease of life and acting as the gateway to the transformational regeneration project underway at Canada Water.

As one of the last few remaining grade II listed buildings in the borough, it was important to retain as much of the property’s heritage and historical references, whilst fitting it out to a high-quality modern specification.

Conran and Partners opened up the internal space to create a spectacular triple height void in the main entrance of the building. This new voluminous space was designed to encourage social gatherings, ‘chance’ meetings and a greater feeling of connectedness amongst staff and guests. It also exposed the rafters and the 120 year old brickwork, providing an important connection to the building’s history.

The space also needed to accommodate a range of different meetings and functions, so flexibility was key. Conran and Partners created a variety of spaces, from small, more intimate meeting rooms to large, spacious gallery areas ideal for presentations and events.

With restoration and re-use at the centre of the project, Conran and Partner’s interior design was equally focused on sustainability, using local materials and recycled fabrics where possible. Vintage chairs from the UK, sustainably sourced timber and a boardroom table made from recycled materials.

The colour palette was inspired by the surrounding landscape – the water, vegetation and bricks providing a tonal source of inspiration, whilst pops of colour were added to inject a sense of energy, reflective of the dynamism and forward-thinking nature of the Canada Water Masterplan.