Construction work should start on the project later this year.
The building, next to Chancery Lane Tube station, will be substantially remodelled and extended to create 80,000 sq ft of prime office space and six apartments. There is also already 30,000 sq ft of retail space at ground‐floor level.
Ocubis is managing the scheme for the building owner, Laffly Ltd. Make Architects has designed the refurbishment. Make’s design retains the building’s structural frame but introduces new lifts, escape stairs plus more efficient and rationalised plant and equipment.
The building’s mansard roof will be removed and new levels created to increase floor space as well as new roof‐top terraces for both the offices and residential elements. The existing building envelope will be over‐clad with a ‘puffer jacket’ of insulation to meet current standards. Make says that it will be “finished in a lightweight, elegant rain screen of glazed faience and patina metal with a vertical emphasis”.
Lead project architect Graham Longman said, “It’s a joy to work within this site’s unique context, characterised by wonderful buildings by great architects such as Waterhouse, Butterfly and Wren. We are confident our design proposal complements and enhances the existing building and its surroundings. We are thrilled to be working with Laffly in realising their vision and look forward to starting on site in 2012.”
Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk
